Description

Coconut Chicken and Rice is a creamy, tropical-inspired dish that transforms basic chicken and rice into a comforting escape. Tender spiced chicken pairs with fragrant coconut rice, finished with fresh lime for brightness. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for a romantic dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

For the Coconut Rice:

1 cup long-grain white rice
1½ cups full-fat canned coconut milk
1½ cups water or chicken broth
1 Tbsp coconut oil or olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp fresh grated ginger (optional)
Salt, to taste

Garnish (optional):

Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
Lime wedges
Toasted shredded coconut

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Instructions

Season chicken: Mix cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub over chicken and drizzle with lime juice.
Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F). Remove and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, melt coconut oil. Add onion, cooking 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking 1 more minute.
Cook rice: Stir in rice to coat. Add coconut milk and broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook 15–18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Rest, covered, 5 minutes.
Assemble & serve: Fluff rice, slice chicken, and nestle on top. Garnish with herbs, lime, and toasted coconut. Serve hot.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.

Swap broth for water in rice for deeper flavor.

Add cayenne or chili flakes to seasoning for heat.

For a one-pot version, cook the chicken first, then return it to the rice before serving.

Reheats beautifully with a splash of broth or coconut milk.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet & Simmering
Cuisine: Fusion / Tropical-Inspired