Golden Coconut Chicken & Jasmine Rice in Aromatic Broth

🌴 Golden Coconut Chicken & Jasmine Rice in Aromatic Broth

This Golden Coconut Chicken and Jasmine Rice is comfort food with a sunny, Mediterranean-inspired twist. Tender chicken thighs simmer gently in a fragrant broth of coconut milk, turmeric, ginger, and cumin, infusing every grain of jasmine rice with rich, golden flavor. It’s cozy, nourishing, and elegant enough for guests—yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

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🛒 Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed well

• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for warmth)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Season the chicken
   Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, turmeric, cumin, and paprika.

2. Sauté aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Brown the chicken
   Add chicken thighs and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden (they don’t need to cook through yet).

4. Build the broth
   Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir gently and bring to a light simmer.

5. Add the rice
   Stir in rinsed jasmine rice. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

6. Finish & rest
   Turn off heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff rice gently and finish with lemon juice if using.

7. Garnish & serve
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve warm.

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🌿 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Mediterranean cucumber & tomato salad

• Add steamed green beans or roasted zucchini

• Serve with warm flatbread or pita on the side

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❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes, but thighs stay juicier. If using breast, reduce simmer time slightly to avoid drying out.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: No—it’s warmly spiced, not hot. Add chili flakes or fresh chili if you want heat.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: It already is! Coconut milk replaces all dairy.

Q: Can I meal prep this recipe?
A: Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.

Q: What makes this Mediterranean-style?
A: Olive oil, warm spices, fresh herbs, and balanced flavors align perfectly with Mediterranean cooking principles.