Making Spicy Maple Chicken & Coconut Rice is one of those delightful culinary experiences that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. There’s something about the sweet and spicy combination of maple syrup and chili flakes that elevates a simple chicken dish into something truly special. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite, whether you’re cooking just for yourself or feeding a crowd. Pair it with creamy coconut rice, and you have a meal that’s not only satisfying but also uniquely flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Spicy Maple Chicken & Coconut Rice recipe is a true showstopper. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and kid-approved, making it perfect for any night of the week. You won’t find yourself slaving away for hours in the kitchen—this meal can be on the table in under an hour! The balance of sweetness from the maple syrup perfectly counters the heat from the chili flakes, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet uncomplicated enough for even the most novice cook.
"This dish was a hit with my family! The combination of spicy and sweet was just perfect, and the coconut rice was a delightful addition." — Jamie L.
Preparing Spicy Maple Chicken & Coconut Rice
This recipe is remarkably straightforward yet yields an impressive meal. You’ll first prep your chicken with some spices and maple syrup, then sear it for that perfect golden crust. While the chicken is baking, you’ll whip up the creamy coconut rice for a delicious side. It’s a simple, step-by-step process that anyone can follow, whether you’re a kitchen novice or an experienced cook.
What You’ll Need
To create this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (30 ml / 40 g)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (2 g)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2 g)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice (200 g)
- 1 cup coconut milk (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup water (120 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional garnish)
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional garnish)
Feel free to swap jasmine rice for basmati according to your preference, or even experiment with different types of chicken, like thighs for extra juiciness.
