Meal Prep

Jerk Chicken Bowls with Coconut Rice – The Easiest Fresh + Flavorful Dinner/lunch

Name: Jerk Chicken Bowls with Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp honey; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp ground allspice; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup jasmine rice (or any long-grain rice); 1 cup canned coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup chopped red cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 ripe mango (diced); 2 green onions (sliced); 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; Extra lime wedges for serving

April 27, 2025

Creator: Leslie Stokes

So, funny story… I was planning on sharing a spring roll recipe this week. But after wrestling with rice paper wrappers (and losing, big time), I decided to pivot. I mean, who knew rolling up spring rolls could be such a challenge? After a few ripped wrappers and a lot of “why is this so hard?!” moments, I scrapped the idea and whipped up these Jerk Chicken Bowls with Coconut Rice instead—and honestly, I’m not even mad about it.

These bowls are everything I wanted: super fresh, light but filling, and full of bold flavor. The coconut rice with sweet mango and spicy jerk chicken is the kind of combo that just works. It’s tropical, it’s colorful, and it’s one of those meals that makes you feel like you’re on vacation—even if you’re just eating it at your kitchen counter between soccer practices and laundry loads.

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Why You’ll Love These Bowls:

Quick + Easy: Done in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Meal Prep Friendly: Keep everything separate and build your bowl fresh each day.
Tropical Flavors: Coconut, mango, lime, and spices make this bowl a vibe.
Customizable: Swap proteins, add sauces, or load up with extra veggies.

Cooking Tips for Maximum Flavor:

1. Roast That Chicken High + Fast:

Using the top rack of your oven at 400°F helps caramelize the honey and lime while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Don’t skip the flip halfway through—it helps get that golden color on both sides.

2. Coconut Rice Tip:

Rinse your rice first for the fluffiest texture. Use full-fat coconut milk for extra richness, or light coconut milk if you want to save some calories.

3. Build-Your-Own Bowl:

These are perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Let everyone add their favorite toppings—extra mango for me, please!

Sauce Ideas to Take It Up a Notch:

Spicy Mayo: 1/4 cup mayo + 1 tbsp sriracha + splash of lime juice.
Yogurt-Lime Dressing: Greek yogurt + lime juice + a touch of honey + garlic.
Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette: Olive oil + lime juice + cilantro + a pinch of salt.
Sweet Chili Sauce: For a little sweet heat on top.

Trust me, a little drizzle of sauce can take this bowl from great to OMG I need this every day.

Final Thoughts:

I might not be a spring roll pro yet, but these Jerk Chicken Bowls? Total win. They’re easy, vibrant, and full of feel-good ingredients. I’m obsessed with the mango + coconut rice combo, and I think you will be too.

Let me know if you try them! And if you’ve got tips for rolling spring rolls… send help.

Meal Prep Tips:

Prep Ahead: Cook the chicken and rice ahead of time and store in separate containers.
Fresh Toppings: Keep cabbage, carrots, mango, and herbs separate until ready to serve for the freshest texture.
Reheat Right: Warm the chicken and rice gently, then build your bowl fresh with the cold toppings.