Coconut Chicken & Rice

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of coconut, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice. Coconut Chicken & Rice wraps you in a warm hug while delivering an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. This dish not only warms the heart but also fills the home with the heady aroma of simmering coconut milk and fragrant spices. Can you imagine that enticing scent wafting through your kitchen on a chilly evening? It’s the kind of meal that draws the family together, igniting conversation and laughter around the dinner table.

Coconut Chicken & Rice

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A comforting dish combining coconut, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked jasmine rice, infused with aromatic spices.

• Author: 02
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

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• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat a splash of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onion is translucent (3 to 5 minutes).
3. Add jasmine rice to the onion mixture, stirring gently to coat the rice.
4. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover skillet, and simmer for about 15 minutes until rice is tender.
6. Slice the rested chicken and serve over the coconut rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate chicken in coconut milk and spices for a few hours. Consider using brown jasmine rice for added fiber.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

How to Make Coconut Chicken & Rice

Creating this delicious Coconut Chicken & Rice is a straightforward process that rewards you with a delightful meal. It feels like a dance through the kitchen, starting with the sizzle of chicken and ending with a steaming bowl of fragrant rice. Let’s dive into the details so you can enjoy this family-friendly favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful dinner:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Start by heating a splash of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. As the oil warms, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, until they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked through. When done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board. This allows the juices to settle in.

2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. As they sauté, your kitchen will be filled with a symphony of aromatic scents. Stir until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.

3. Next, add the jasmine rice to the onion mixture, stirring gently to coat the rice with those savory flavors. The rice will absorb the essence of garlic and ginger, enhancing every bite.

4. Now, pour in the creamy coconut milk and rich chicken broth. You’ll see the liquid swirl together, creating a beautifully inviting mixture. Bring this to a gentle simmer – the bubbling will be music to your kitchen.

5. Reduce the heat to low and cover your skillet. Let everything simmer quietly for about 15 minutes, until the rice is tender and has soaked up every delightful drop of liquid. When the timer goes off, lift the lid to release a cloud of fragrant steam.

6. Slice the rested chicken and serve it over a generous bed of coconut rice. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a pop of color and a zesty flavor that brightens the dish beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 470
Protein: 26g
Carbs: 50g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g

Serving Ideas

Picture this: a cozy family dinner on a Sunday night, everyone gathered around the table, bowls of Coconut Chicken & Rice steaming before them. This dish is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, but it can easily elevate a special occasion, too. Pair it with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a colorful, wholesome meal that everyone will savor.

Storage Tips

To store any leftovers, place the Coconut Chicken & Rice in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to revive its creamy texture.

Pro Tips

• For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in coconut milk and spices for a couple of hours before cooking.
• Consider simmering the rice with a bay leaf or a piece of cinnamon stick to infuse it with more warmth.
• If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quick assembly.
• A touch of lime juice just before serving can brighten the entire dish.
• Experiment with brown jasmine rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to mix things up with these enjoyable variations:

• Spice it up by adding a teaspoon of curry powder or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• For a touch of sweetness, toss in some pineapple chunks during the last few moments of cooking.
• You could also swap out jasmine rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

FAQs

What can I use instead of coconut milk?
If you don’t have coconut milk on hand, you can substitute with almond milk or another non-dairy option, but the flavor will vary. Coconut cream can also be used for a richer version.

How can I make Coconut Chicken & Rice spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the onion and garlic. You can also serve it with a side of your favorite hot sauce.

Can I use brown rice for this dish?
Yes, brown rice can be used! Just keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time—about 30 to 40 minutes—so adjust accordingly.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook it up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

As you gather around the table, enveloped in the warmth of this comforting Coconut Chicken & Rice, you’ll remember why home-cooked meals like this one have a special place in our hearts. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones and let every bite be a reminder of the cozy moments shared together. Happy cooking!