Ingredients
- Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless): 2 lbs
- Yellow bell pepper: 1, chopped
- Red onion: 1, chopped
- Scotch bonnet pepper: 1/2, finely minced (optional, use with caution!)
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced
- Allspice: 1 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Coconut milk: 1 can (13.5 oz)
- Long grain rice: 1.5 cups
- Chicken broth: 3 cups
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, allspice, and dried thyme. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on all sides until browned, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: Add the chopped red onion and yellow bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Step 4: While the chicken is simmering, prepare the flavored rice. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
- Step 5: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- Step 6: Serve the Caribbean chicken over the flavored rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro (optional).
Notes
- For best flavor, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 days.
- Reheat the chicken and rice separately to maintain texture; gently warm the chicken in a skillet with a splash of coconut milk and fluff the rice with a fork while reheating.
- Serve this dish with a side of fried plantains or a fresh mango salsa for a complete Caribbean feast.
- Remember to taste the coconut milk before adding it, as some brands can be overly sweet; adjust seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American