Description
Experience the delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with Spicy Maple Chicken Coconut Rice. This dish combines tender chicken marinated in a zesty maple sauce with creamy coconut rice for a tropical culinary adventure.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup jasmine rice (or basmati or long-grain white rice)
- 1 cup water
- pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons oil
- fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rice with 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk and 1 cup of water. Add a pinch of salt and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until it is cooked through and has a nice caramelized color. If you have remaining marinade, you can add it to the pan for extra flavor, cooking it down for a couple of minutes.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Fluff the coconut rice with a fork. Serve the chicken over a bed of coconut rice, drizzling any pan juices on top.
- Chop fresh cilantro and sprinkle it over the dish for a fresh, vibrant finish. You can also add lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper or substitute it with a milder spice like smoked paprika. This dish is great for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook the rice fresh when you’re ready to eat.