Description

This Spicy Maple Chicken & Coconut Rice recipe combines the sweet and spicy flavors of a maple syrup marinade with tender chicken breasts, served alongside creamy coconut-infused jasmine rice. The dish is enhanced with garlic, lime juice, and a touch of soy sauce, offering a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Garnished with fresh green onions and cilantro, it makes for an easy yet flavor-packed meal that serves four.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp fresh lime juice

Coconut Rice

1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 cup jasmine rice
Pinch of salt

Garnish

4 green onions, chopped
Fresh cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix the maple syrup, soy sauce, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh lime juice. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Cook the Coconut Rice: Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then cover and cook until liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, reserving the leftover marinade. Sear the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Make the Glaze: Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
Finish the Rice: Once the rice has absorbed all the coconut milk (about 15 minutes), remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Serve: Plate the coconut rice alongside the glazed spicy maple chicken. Drizzle extra glaze over the chicken and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro if desired for added freshness and color.

Notes

Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
For extra flavor, marinate chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup quantity slightly.
Use full-fat coconut milk for creamier rice, or light coconut milk for a lighter version.
Make sure to rinse the rice well to prevent it from becoming sticky.
Can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.