There is something so irresistibly comforting and vibrant about this Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite. Creamy coconut milk infuses the jasmine rice and tender chicken with luscious, rich flavor while the warming spices of curry powder and turmeric add a lovely depth that’s balanced perfectly by fresh herbs and bright lime. It’s a one-pan meal that combines hearty protein, fragrant rice, and colorful veggies in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or special dinners alike.

Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe uses a handful of essential ingredients that come together effortlessly, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color in the dish.

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and easy eating.
Jasmine rice: Its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture soak up the coconut and spice beautifully.
Coconut milk: Adds that creamy, tropical richness that’s the heart and soul of the dish.
Chicken broth: Boosts the savory depth and keeps everything nicely moist as it cooks.
Vegetable oil: For sautéing, helping brown the chicken and soften the aromatics perfectly.
Onion: Finely chopped to bring a subtle sweetness and body as it cooks down.
Garlic: Minced to add just the right pungent kick that wakes up the palate.
Fresh ginger: Grated for a warm, zesty undertone that harmonizes with the coconut.
Curry powder: The key spice that layers in complex flavor and a hint of heat.
Ground turmeric: Brings a beautiful golden glow and earthy note to the rice.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning essentials to elevate every component.
Red bell pepper: Sliced for crunch and vibrant color that pops in the bowl.
Frozen peas: Sweet and tender, added in the final moments to brighten the dish.
Green onions: Sliced for a fresh, mild onion flavor and green freshness on top.
Cilantro: Chopped fresh for a burst of herbaceous vibrancy and aroma.
Lime wedges: Served on the side to squeeze over for an uplifting citrus finish.

How to Make Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating a tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook them until they develop a beautiful golden brown on all sides, about five to seven minutes. This step locks in flavor and ensures that each bite of chicken is juicy and perfectly cooked. Once browned, set the chicken aside so you can build your flavorful base.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about four minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. This layer of aromatics is what makes the dish truly mouthwatering and sets the stage for the spices to shine.

Step 3: Toast the Spices

Next, sprinkle in the curry powder and turmeric, stirring constantly to coat the onions and garlic. Let the spices toast for about one minute to release their full flavor and aroma. This blooming of spices is an essential step that awakens every other ingredient, turning simple components into a deeply flavored masterpiece.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Liquids

Now it’s time to incorporate the jasmine rice. Stir it into the skillet so it gets fully coated with the fragrant spice mixture. Pour in the creamy coconut milk and savory chicken broth, mixing everything well so the rice begins to soak up these rich, flavorful liquids. This combination is the soul of the Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe and guarantees every bite is luxuriously tender and tasty.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Simmer

Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before covering the skillet and reducing the heat to low. Let it cook for fifteen minutes, giving the rice time to absorb all those delightful flavors while the chicken finishes cooking through.

Step 6: Finish with Veggies

After the initial simmer, add the sliced red bell pepper and frozen peas on top. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional five minutes. This final step adds pops of bright color and crunchy texture, making the dish visually stunning and wonderfully balanced with freshness.

Step 7: Fluff and Garnish

Once the rice is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, making sure the chicken and vegetables mix evenly throughout. Top with sliced green onions and freshly chopped cilantro for a fresh-herb burst that perfectly complements the creamy, spiced base.

How to Serve Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a few simple garnishes to your Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe can elevate it from delicious to truly special. Freshly sliced green onions add a mild sharpness, while chopped cilantro brings a lively herbal note. Don’t forget those lime wedges – a squeeze right before eating brightens the whole dish with a lovely acidity that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider light and refreshing sides. A crisp cucumber salad or a simple mango salsa can add crunch and sweetness that contrast wonderfully with the creamy coconut rice. Steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans are also excellent accompaniments that keep the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can add a bit of fun and flair to this comforting dish. Try serving the Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe in vibrant bowls topped with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for extra texture. You could also serve it inside halved bell peppers for a colorful, edible bowl that looks lovely at any dinner party. For a family-style meal, a large platter garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs invites everyone to dig in and share the tropical goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often meld even more as it rests, making the next day’s meal just as delightful. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely if you want to prepare in advance. Portion the cooked Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe into freezer-safe containers and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the creaminess and tender texture of the chicken and rice.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or extra coconut milk to bring back the creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming and prevent drying out. Fresh garnishes and a squeeze of lime after reheating will refresh the flavors beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly to ensure the rice cooks through and absorbs the rich coconut flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! This Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe is naturally dairy-free thanks to the use of coconut milk instead of cream or butter, making it a great option for those avoiding dairy.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and avoid excess liquid in the skillet. If using frozen chicken, thaw completely before starting the recipe.

How spicy is this Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe?

The spice level is mild thanks to the curry powder and turmeric, which add warmth and complexity without heat. You can increase the spice by adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer more kick.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat for a party?

Yes, this dish reheats really well and can be made a day ahead. Store leftovers properly and reheat gently before serving to keep the creamy texture intact, making it a convenient choice for entertaining.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comforting textures, and a touch of tropical sunshine, the Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet special enough to impress guests, and it will quickly become a go-to in your meal rotation. I can’t wait for you to experience how the creamy coconut and fragrant spices blend flawlessly with chicken and jasmine rice to create something truly unforgettable. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close forever.

Coconut Chicken & Rice Recipe

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4.3 from 83 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A flavorful and creamy Coconut Chicken & Rice dish combining tender chicken, jasmine rice, and aromatic spices simmered in rich coconut milk for a comforting one-pot meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Grains

1 cup (200g) jasmine rice, rinsed and drained

Liquids

1 can (13.5 oz/400ml) coconut milk
1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup (150g) frozen peas
2 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped

Spices & Seasonings

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp ground turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

Brown the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1 minute to develop their flavors.
Add Spices: Sprinkle in the curry powder and ground turmeric, stirring to coat the onion mixture thoroughly. Let the spices bloom for about 1 minute to release their aromatic oils.
Incorporate Rice and Liquids: Stir in the rinsed jasmine rice, ensuring it is well coated with the spiced onion mixture. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything evenly.
Return Chicken and Simmer: Add the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Simmer Covered: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the dish simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the liquid and cook through.
Add Vegetables: After 15 minutes, add the sliced red bell pepper and frozen peas into the skillet. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Fluff and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro for freshness and color.
Serve: Serve the coconut chicken and rice warm with lime wedges on the side to add a bright, citrusy note to the dish.

Notes

Make sure to rinse the jasmine rice to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
Adjust curry powder and turmeric quantities to taste for milder or stronger spice flavors.
Adding vegetables towards the end prevents them from overcooking and keeps them vibrant.
The lime wedges add a nice acidity that balances the richness of coconut milk.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian Fusion