Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the sunny Caribbean islands with its rich, creamy texture and bold, vibrant flavors. Chicken Rice n Peas isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines the comforting heartiness of rice, the luscious creaminess of coconut milk, and the protein-packed goodness of tender chicken. This one-pot wonder is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups of long-grain rice, 1 can of coconut milk, 1 can of red kidney beans (drained and rinsed), 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of thyme, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the long-grain rice, ensuring that it is well-coated with the oil and mixed with the onion and garlic. Sauté the rice for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to become slightly translucent.
- Pour in the can of coconut milk and the chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the drained and rinsed red kidney beans, shredded cooked chicken, thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- After the cooking time is complete, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and ensures a fluffy texture.
- Finally, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Use long-grain rice for the best texture and fluffiness.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take time to sauté onions and garlic to build a flavor foundation.
- Keep the Lid Tight: Ensure a tight-fitting lid while simmering to trap steam and cook rice evenly.
- Let it Rest: The 5-minute resting period after cooking is crucial for achieving perfect rice texture.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro for an extra flavor boost.
- Use Quality Coconut Milk: Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier result.
- Adjust Liquid Ratio: If your rice seems too dry, add a bit more broth during cooking.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 70mg
