Caribbean Chicken and Rice: A Tropical Twist on Comfort Food

Experience the flavors of the Caribbean with this family-friendly Chicken and Rice dish, featuring coconut, spices, and colorful veggies.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Caribbean

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 thighs Chicken Thighs Juicy and flavorful; can swap with bone-in chicken breasts.
2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for searing chicken.

For the Rice

1 cup Long-Grain Rice Jasmine or basmati recommended; rinse before cooking.
1 can Coconut Milk Unsweetened for creamy texture.
1 cup Chicken Broth Enhances moisture and savory depth.

For the Vegetables

1 Red Bell Pepper Adds vibrant color and sweetness.
1 Green Bell Pepper Contributes to a colorful presentation.
2 stalks Scallions Provide a mild onion flavor.
3 cloves Garlic Aromatic base for the dish.

For Seasoning

1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Earthy flavor; use 1 teaspoon of dried if fresh is not available.
1 teaspoon Ground Allspice Brings warm, aromatic notes.
1 teaspoon Paprika Adds smokiness.
to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
to taste Cayenne or Hot Sauce (Optional) Adjust for added heat.

Equipment

Large skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pat the chicken thighs dry, season generously with salt, pepper, ground allspice, and paprika. Let sit for 10 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-6 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic, scallions, and diced bell peppers for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add rinsed rice, coconut milk, chicken broth, thyme, and salt to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Nestle seared chicken thighs on top of the rice, cover and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 20-25 minutes.
Increase heat to medium for the last 5 minutes to crisp chicken skin and evaporate excess liquid.
Remove from heat, garnish with sliced scallions, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Rinse the rice before cooking for fluffy texture and season chicken generously for enhanced flavor.

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