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An overhead close-up shot of a rustic ceramic bowl filled with creamy one-pan chicken and rice, showcasing the fluffy rice and tender chicken pieces.

Coconut Chicken and Rice: A Creamy One-Pan Dream

This Coconut Chicken and Rice is a rich, fragrant, and incredibly satisfying one-pan meal that comes together with minimal effort. Tender chicken simmers in a creamy coconut milk broth with fluffy jasmine rice for a perfect weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Thai-inspired
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1.5 cups jasmine rice rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 lime juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet with Lid
  • 1 Cutting Board

Instructions
 

  1. Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  2. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir constantly for 1 minute to toast.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk, scraping the bottom of the pan. Stir in soy sauce and bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Rinse Your Rice: Don't skip rinsing the rice! It's the key to making it light and fluffy, not gummy.
Full-Fat Coconut Milk is Best: For the creamiest sauce, use full-fat, canned coconut milk. The kind in a carton will not provide the same richness.
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