Description
How to make sweet & savory Coconut Chicken & Rice with tender chicken and aromatic coconut rice that’s perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.
Ingredients
- Main Components:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk (100%, not light)
- 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or neutral oil
- Flavor Builders:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Seasonings & Spices:
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- Finishing & Toppings:
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup toasted chopped peanuts or cashews
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This initial prep ensures everything is ready, making your cooking process smooth and efficient.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and ground turmeric. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the aromatics are fragrant and slightly softened.
- Brown Chicken: Add the prepared chicken pieces to the skillet with the aromatics. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, browning all sides. You don’t need to cook it through, just sear for flavor.
- Simmer Rice: Pour in full-fat coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir in light brown sugar, fish sauce, and the rinsed jasmine rice. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Rest & Fluff: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Let the Romantic Coconut Chicken & Rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the steam to redistribute, ensuring perfectly tender grains. Then, gently fluff with a fork.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors of your Coconut Chicken & Rice. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro and toasted chopped peanuts or cashews. Serve immediately for a truly comforting and delightful meal.
Notes
Rinse jasmine rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to prevent clumpy, starchy grains and ensure fluffy perfection.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth.
Substitute chicken thighs with breast, cooking for a shorter duration (2-3 minutes per side) to keep it tender and juicy.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and toasted nuts. Pair with a crisp green salad or Sauvignon Blanc.
Prep chicken, rinse rice, and mince aromatics a day in advance, storing separately to make dinner stress-free.
For deeper flavor, lightly toast rinsed jasmine rice before adding liquids, creating a nuttier profile.
**Allergy Information:** Fish, Peanuts, Tree Nuts