I love this Coconut Chicken Brothy Rice because it feels comforting, nourishing, and full of gentle flavor. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant coconut milk, and warm broth creates a dish that always feels soothing to me, especially when I want something cozy but still light.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it’s simple, one-pot, and incredibly satisfying. I like how the rice absorbs the coconut broth and becomes creamy without being heavy. It’s one of those meals I turn to when I want something homemade, calming, and easy to customize with whatever I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken thighs or chicken breast
Jasmine rice or long-grain rice
Chicken broth
Coconut milk
Onion
Garlic
Fresh ginger
Salt
Black pepper
Neutral oil
Green onions or fresh herbs for garnish
Directions
I start by heating a little oil in a pot over medium heat. I add the chopped onion and cook it until soft and fragrant. Then I stir in the garlic and ginger and let them cook briefly.
I add the chicken pieces, season them with salt and pepper, and lightly brown them on all sides. Once the chicken is lightly cooked, I stir in the rice and let it toast for a minute.
Next, I pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring everything together. I bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered until the rice is tender and the broth thickens slightly. I stir occasionally to keep the rice from sticking.
Once everything is cooked, I taste and adjust the seasoning. I like to finish it with sliced green onions or fresh herbs before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation takes around 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes, making the total time roughly 40 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrition. When I want more warmth, I add a pinch of chili flakes. I also like swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu when I want a different protein.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of broth or water and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to loosen the rice.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
I can use brown rice, but I increase the cooking time and add extra broth to ensure it cooks fully.
Is this dish very thick or soupy?
I find it to be brothy and comforting, not overly thick, but I can adjust the liquid to my preference.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
I like that this recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses coconut milk.
Can I freeze Coconut Chicken Brothy Rice?
I can freeze it, but I notice the rice softens more once reheated, so I prefer it fresh.
What type of coconut milk works best?
I usually use full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor and creaminess.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to Coconut Chicken Brothy Rice because it’s simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. It’s one of those meals I enjoy making when I want something warm, nourishing, and full of cozy flavor without much effort.
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A cozy, one-pot dish combining tender chicken, jasmine rice, and a coconut-infused broth for a light yet comforting meal.
- Author: Mayaa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 1 cup jasmine rice or long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., canola or vegetable)
- Green onions or fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and lightly brown on all sides.
- Stir in the rice and toast for about a minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once rice is tender and the broth has thickened slightly, taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with green onions or fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- For extra nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots.
- Adjust the level of brothiness by using more or less liquid.
- Swap chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
