Description
Caribbean Chicken and Rice is a delightful tropical dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean right to your dinner table. This one-pot meal features tender chicken infused with aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and colorful vegetables, making it a comforting and satisfying choice for any occasion. With minimal cleanup required, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Experience the explosion of flavors in every bite with this easy-to-follow recipe that will impress your family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (or substitute habanero pepper for less heat), whole or minced
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, paprika, ground allspice, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Sear the seasoned chicken skin-side down until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds before mixing in bell peppers and tomato along with Scotch bonnet pepper.
- Return seared chicken to the pot. Add thyme, additional allspice, smoked paprika, rice, chicken broth, coconut milk, and salt. Stir gently to combine.
- Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 30-35 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last five minutes of cooking. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg