Get ready to transport your taste buds to the lush islands of Indonesia with this mouthwatering coconut rice and chicken recipe that promises to deliver an explosion of flavors in every single bite! Imagine creamy, fragrant jasmine rice infused with rich coconut milk, perfectly paired with golden-brown, seasoned chicken that will make your kitchen smell like a Southeast Asian paradise. Whether you're a home cook looking to explore new cuisines or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe is about to become your new weekend favorite that will impress family and friends alike.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indonesian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups water
- 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch.
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to mix ingredients evenly.
- Bring the rice mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- While rice is cooking, season diced chicken thighs with soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the seasoned chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Once rice is done, let it rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork to separate grains.
- Plate the coconut rice and top with the seasoned chicken pieces.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Key: Always thoroughly rinse your jasmine rice to remove excess starch, which ensures fluffy, separated grains.
- Coconut Milk Matters: Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest, most authentic flavor and creamy texture.
- Low and Slow Cooking: When simmering rice, keep the heat low and resist the urge to peek under the lid to maintain consistent moisture and temperature.
- Chicken Seasoning Technique: Let the chicken marinate in soy sauce and garlic for 10-15 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor penetration.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking chicken, ensure pieces are spread out to achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow both rice and chicken to rest briefly after cooking to redistribute juices and enhance overall taste.
- Optional Elevation: Experiment with garnishes like toasted coconut flakes, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime to add extra dimension to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 404kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 55mg
