Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both easy and full of flavor? This Sweet Chili Salmon Bowl is the answer! Tender salmon glazed with sweet chili sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy rice and fresh, colorful vegetables. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes, packed with protein, Omega-3s, and vibrant nutrients.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding the family, or just craving a balanced, delicious dinner, this bowl delivers.
Ingredients for Sweet Chili Salmon Bowl
Salmon & Sauce:
- 4 salmon fillets (4–6 oz each, skinless)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil for pan-searing
Base:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice or quinoa
Vegetables & Garnishes:
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup edamame, shelled and steamed
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Lime wedges for serving
Optional Add-Ins:
- Pickled ginger, sliced jalapeños, or extra sweet chili sauce for more flavor
Instructions
1. Marinate the Salmon
Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and coat with sweet chili sauce. Let them marinate for 15–20 minutes to soak in the flavors.
2. Cook the Salmon
Pan-Searing: Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and flaky.
Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes.
Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill salmon 4–6 minutes per side.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking—salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect tenderness.
3. Prepare the Base & Veggies
Cook your rice or quinoa according to package instructions and fluff with a fork. Slice and prep vegetables: cucumber, carrots, bell pepper, and edamame.
4. Assemble the Bowls
- Scoop rice or quinoa into bowls.
- Place a salmon fillet on top.
- Arrange vegetables around the salmon for color and balance.
- Garnish with avocado, green onions, sesame seeds, and a lime wedge.
- Drizzle extra sweet chili sauce on top if desired.
Serve warm for a wholesome, flavorful meal.
Why You’ll Love This Bowl
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Balanced & Nutritious: Protein, Omega-3s, fiber, and vitamins in every bite.
- Customizable: Swap rice for quinoa, tofu for salmon, or add extra heat with sriracha.
- Vibrant & Beautiful: Perfect for meal prep or serving guests.
Customization Ideas
- Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce instead of grains.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace salmon with tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick.
- Extra Sweet: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the salmon before cooking.
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet or microwave.
- Meal Prep: Prep all ingredients ahead and assemble when ready to eat.
This Sweet Chili Salmon Bowl combines tender, flavorful salmon with fresh veggies and a sweet-spicy glaze in a simple, nutrient-packed meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or impressing dinner guests, it’s healthy, colorful, and incredibly satisfying.