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Coconut Chicken & Rice (Creamy, Comforting, and Full of Flavor)

Coconut Chicken & Rice (Creamy, Comforting, and Full of Flavor)
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Coconut Chicken & Rice is a simple, cozy meal with tropical flavors. Tender, spice-rubbed chicken is served over fluffy rice cooked in creamy coconut milk with garlic and onion. It’s rich yet fresh, thanks to a squeeze of lime and herbs on top. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special homemade meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

For the Coconut Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice

  • 1 ½ cups canned coconut milk (full-fat for best flavor)

  • 1 ½ cups water or chicken broth

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)

  • Salt to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley

  • Lime wedges

  • Toasted shredded coconut

Instructions

1. Season the chicken

In a small bowl, mix cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub evenly over both sides of the chicken. Drizzle with lime juice.

2. Cook the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove and rest.

3. Sauté the aromatics

In the same pan, add coconut oil. Cook onion for about 3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Cook the rice

Add rice and stir to coat with oil. Pour in coconut milk and water (or broth). Add salt and bring to a gentle simmer.

Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

5. Serve

Slice the chicken. Spoon coconut rice onto plates and top with chicken. Garnish with herbs, lime wedges, and toasted coconut.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier and add extra flavor.

  • Full-fat coconut milk makes the rice creamier and richer.

  • Rinse rice before cooking for fluffier texture.

  • Add chili flakes or fresh chili for heat.

  • Use jasmine or basmati rice for extra fragrance.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/coconut-chicken-rice-creamy-comforting-and-full-of-flavor/