Coconut Chicken & Rice is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with savory coconut milk and fragrant jasmine rice. This meal not only warms the heart but also transports your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Here’s everything you need to know about making this comforting recipe.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making Coconut Chicken & Rice is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple and requires just a few ingredients. The recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. Plus, the combination of coconut and spices creates a rich flavor that impresses without demanding too much time or effort.
How to Make Coconut Chicken & Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in coconut milk and chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Add the jasmine rice to the skillet, stir well, and cover.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.
Coconut Chicken & Rice
A delightful dish combining succulent chicken with savory coconut milk and fragrant jasmine rice, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in coconut milk and chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.
- Add the jasmine rice to the skillet, stir well, and cover.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.
Notes
Make sure to sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, but avoid burning them for the best flavor. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
How to Serve Coconut Chicken & Rice
Coconut Chicken & Rice is best served hot. You can place it in bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
How to Store Coconut Chicken & Rice
If you have leftovers, allow the Coconut Chicken & Rice to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Tips to Make Coconut Chicken & Rice
- Make sure to sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, but avoid burning them for the best flavor.
- You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier meat.
- For extra texture, try adding some chopped bell peppers or peas to the mix.
Variations
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add different vegetables like spinach or carrots.
Try this Sweet Potato Taco Bowl, if you’re looking for more healthy options.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice? Yes, but note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
2. Can I freeze Coconut Chicken & Rice? Yes, you can freeze it! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.
3. What can I serve with Coconut Chicken & Rice? This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a simple cucumber salad for extra crunch.
Conclusion
Coconut Chicken & Rice is an easy and delicious dish that brings together comforting flavors and satisfying ingredients. With simple steps, you can create a lovely meal that your family and friends will enjoy. Give it a try and let the tropical flavors take you on a delicious journey!
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