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Caribbean Chicken and Rice

Caribbean Chicken and Rice: Your Easy One-Pot Tropical Escape

A vibrant Caribbean Chicken and Rice recipe that marries rich coconut milk, tender chicken, and fragrant rice for a taste of tropical paradise.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Chicken
Cuisine Caribbean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • heavy-bottomed pot

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 pieces Chicken Thighs boneless options can speed up cooking time
  • 1 cup Coconut Milk key element for authentic flavor

For the Base

  • 1.5 cups Rice medium or short-grain preferred
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth opt for low-sodium

For the Vegetables

  • 2 cups Bell Peppers (Mixed Colors)
  • 1 Onion chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas optional

For the Spices

  • 1 piece Scotch Bonnet or Habanero Pepper adjust according to heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme fresh or dried
  • 2 teaspoons Allspice
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons Green Onions chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Cilantro chopped

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Prep Chicken: Mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, allspice, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Pat chicken thighs dry and rub spice mixture all over, letting it sit for 10-15 minutes.
  • Sear Chicken: Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, then flip to cook another 4-5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  • Sauté Veggies: In the same pot, add more oil if needed, then add onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes and remaining spices, cooking for another 2 minutes.
  • Combine Ingredients: Add rinsed rice, chicken broth, and coconut milk. Stir to combine. Nestle seared chicken back into the mixture. Season with more salt if necessary.
  • Cook: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover pot and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until rice is tender and chicken is cooked.
  • Finish & Serve: If using, add frozen peas for the last 5 minutes. Remove from heat, let rest for 5-10 minutes, fluff rice, and garnish with green onions and cilantro before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning for crispy skin. Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even cooking. Avoid lifting the lid while cooking to retain steam. Allow to rest before serving to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg
Keyword Caribbean Chicken and Rice, easy recipe, family-friendly, one-pot meal, Quick dinner, tropical flavors
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