This Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl is one of those weeknight meals that feels like a treat but comes together in no time. Imagine juicy chicken coated in a creamy peanut sauce with just the right amount of heat, resting on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice and surrounded by crunchy veggies. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors.

What makes this dish even better is its versatility. You can switch up the protein, adjust the spice level, or even swap rice for noodles or quinoa. It’s a colorful, comforting bowl that packs big flavor and keeps well for meal prep, too.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl

This recipe is a flavor explosion. The sauce has richness from the peanut butter, brightness from lime juice, and depth from soy sauce and sesame oil. You get texture from fresh veggies, protein from the chicken, and a subtle spice that lingers just enough to keep you coming back.

Plus, it’s easy to make and feels like a healthy takeout meal right at home. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping lunches for the week, this bowl delivers on all fronts.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the most flavorful and juicy option here, but chicken breast also works if you prefer a leaner protein. You can grill, sauté, or bake it—just make sure it’s cooked through and nicely seared to soak up the peanut sauce. Leftover rotisserie chicken? Go for it. Tofu or shrimp also play well with the sauce if you’re looking for a different twist.

Ingredients for the Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl

You’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to bring this bowl to life. Each ingredient has a purpose in flavor or texture—skip one, and you might miss the magic.

Chicken thighs or breasts
Peanut butter
Soy sauce

Sesame oil
Garlic
Ginger

Sriracha or chili paste
Lime juice
Honey

Coconut milk
Jasmine rice
Cucumber

Carrots
Red bell pepper
Green onions

Crushed peanuts
Fresh cilantro

How To Make the Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Fluffy rice is the foundation of this bowl, so make sure it’s not overcooked or soggy.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, sriracha, lime juice, honey, and coconut milk. Stir until smooth and warmed through. Adjust spice or sweetness to taste.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook it in a hot skillet with a little oil until browned and cooked through. Once done, slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Prep the Veggies

While the chicken cooks, thinly slice the cucumber, carrots, and bell pepper. Chop the green onions and cilantro. These add crunch and freshness.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

To build your bowl, start with a scoop of rice, then layer on the sliced chicken and fresh veggies. Drizzle generously with peanut sauce and finish with crushed peanuts and cilantro.

How to Serve and Store Your Thai Chicken Bowl

This recipe makes 4 hearty bowls. Serve warm with extra lime wedges on the side for an extra punch. It also makes a fantastic packed lunch — just keep the peanut sauce separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the texture of the veggies.

Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken and rice, and add fresh toppings just before serving to keep everything vibrant.

What to Serve With Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl?

Jasmine or Coconut Rice

If you’re not into jasmine rice, coconut rice is another fragrant base that complements the creamy peanut sauce beautifully.

Thai Cucumber Salad

A light, vinegary salad with cucumbers and red onion cuts through the richness and refreshes your palate.

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Crunchy and light, spring rolls make a perfect appetizer or side with a peanut dipping sauce to match.

Thai Iced Tea

A creamy Thai tea balances the spice and cools you down with each sip.

Mango Sticky Rice

If you’re looking for dessert, this classic Thai treat rounds out the meal with a sweet touch.

Roasted Edamame

For a snacky side, toss edamame with sea salt and roast until crispy.

Spicy Garlic Broccoli

Quick stir-fried broccoli with chili flakes and garlic works as a hot side that doesn’t compete with the bowl.

Want More Chicken Bowl Ideas?

If you’re into bold flavors and comforting bowls, check out these other crave-worthy recipes:

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the heat or keep it mild? Swap in shrimp? Add noodles?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and spicy dinner ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new weeknight favorite!

Conclusion

The Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl is everything you want in a meal: fast, flavorful, satisfying, and flexible. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe brings all the comfort with zero fuss. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly staple—it really is that good.

Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Ingredients for the Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl