Description
Spicy maple chicken coconut rice delivers a flavor explosion that dances between sweet and fiery. Crispy chicken nestled on creamy coconut rice will make your dinner table sing with deliciousness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb chicken thighs
Starches and Grains:
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water
Liquids and Seasonings:
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Whisk ¼ cup maple syrup, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp chili flakes together in a shallow ceramic dish to create a vibrant marinade.
- Submerge 1 lb chicken thighs completely in the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes to absorb maximum flavor.
- Pour 1 cup rice, 1 can coconut milk, 2 cups water, and a pinch of salt into a medium saucepan. Stir ingredients to blend evenly.
- Bring rice mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then immediately reduce temperature to low. Cover the pot and simmer for exactly 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Heat a large skillet to medium-high (375°F). Remove chicken from marinade and place each thigh skin-side down. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer chicken onto a cutting board and let rest for 3 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Plate rice first, then slice chicken and arrange on top. Sprinkle chopped cilantro across the dish for a fresh finishing touch.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for a full hour deepens the flavor and makes the meat more tender.
- Toasting the rice in a bit of oil before adding liquid helps prevent clumping and adds a nutty undertone.
- For a gluten-free version, swap soy sauce with tamari and check that your chili flakes are certified gluten-free.
- Adding a splash of lime juice right before serving brightens the entire dish and balances the rich coconut and maple notes.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Sautéed
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg