Coconut Chicken & Rice

Name: Coconut Chicken & Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Jessica Baker

Update : December 11, 2025

Delicious Coconut Chicken served with rice, garnished with fresh herbs

Why make this recipe

Coconut Chicken & Rice is a delightful meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With its creamy coconut flavor and tender chicken, it offers a comforting and satisfying dinner option. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests at a dinner party. Plus, it combines protein and carbs in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

How to make Coconut Chicken & Rice

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup jasmine rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute.
Add coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Stir in the jasmine rice and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, cover, and let it heat through for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

How to serve Coconut Chicken & Rice

Serve Coconut Chicken & Rice warm right from the pan. You can place it on a large serving dish or individual plates. The bright green cilantro adds a nice touch on top. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to store Coconut Chicken & Rice

To store leftovers, place Coconut Chicken & Rice in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to make Coconut Chicken & Rice

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in coconut milk before cooking.
Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option.
If you like spice, add diced chili or red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and ginger.

Variation

You can easily adjust this recipe by adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots. These can be added when you add the rice to the coconut milk and broth mixture.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of rice?
A: Yes, you can use other types of rice, but cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: While fresh chicken tastes best, you can use canned chicken as a quick alternative. Just add it at the end to heat through.