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Caribbean Chicken and Spiced Rice

Caribbean Chicken and Spiced Rice
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Caribbean Chicken and Spiced Rice is a vibrant, flavorful one-pot dish featuring tender chicken marinated in authentic Caribbean jerk spices paired with aromatic spiced rice. This easy-to-prepare meal blends sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend gatherings, bringing island sunshine straight to your kitchen with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 chicken thighs or breasts (preferably thighs for juiciness)

Rice and Liquids

  • 1 ½ cups long-grain rice or basmati rice
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth or stock
  • ½ cup coconut milk (optional)

Aromatics and Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped

Seasonings and Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons Caribbean jerk seasoning (blend of allspice, thyme, cayenne, and more)
  • 1 tablespoon lime or lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
  • Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the Caribbean jerk seasoning with lime juice, minced garlic, and oil. Coat the chicken thighs or breasts thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight to deepen the flavors.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the marinated chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the rice to coat it well with the spices and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk (if using), then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked, approximately 18-20 minutes.
  4. Finish Cooking and Garnish: Remove the pot from heat once the rice is cooked and chicken is tender. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam and meld the flavors. Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs, and add an extra squeeze of lime juice if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken longer for bolder, deeper flavor.
  • Simmer the rice gently with the lid on for fluffy, perfectly cooked grains.
  • Use high-quality jerk seasoning for authentic taste.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to brighten the dish and add color.
  • Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of hot pepper or cayenne used.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caribbean chicken, spiced rice, one-pot meal, jerk seasoning, easy dinner, island flavors, gluten-free, quick recipe

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/caribbean-chicken-and-spiced-rice/