Spicy Maple Chicken Coconut Rice (Printable)
Tender chicken in spicy maple glaze over fragrant coconut rice
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken & Marinade
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 - 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
03 - 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce
04 - 2 tbsp soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
05 - 2 tbsp olive oil
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
08 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
09 - 1/2 tsp salt
10 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Coconut Rice
11 - 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
12 - 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
13 - 3/4 cup water
14 - 1/2 tsp salt
15 - 1 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
→ Garnishes
16 - 2 green onions, sliced
17 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds
18 - 1 lime, cut into wedges
19 - Fresh cilantro leaves
# How-To Steps:
01 - Whisk together maple syrup, sriracha, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until well combined.
02 - Add chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
03 - Rinse jasmine rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
04 - Combine rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and stir in shredded coconut if using.
05 - Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and reserve excess. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until nicely caramelized and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
06 - Pour reserved marinade into the pan during the final 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to bubble and reduce to create a glossy glaze coating the chicken.
07 - Plate glazed chicken over coconut rice. Garnish generously with green onions, sesame seeds, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro leaves.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The spicy maple glaze caramelizes into sticky, sweet perfection that makes you want to lick your plate clean
- Coconut rice creates a creamy, fragrant bed that tames the heat while adding incredible depth
02 -
- Dont skip the step of rinsing your rice until the water runs clear, it prevents gummy coconut rice
- The glaze will burn quickly once you add it back to the pan, so stand right there and watch it bubble
03 -
- Pat the chicken dry before adding to the pan for better caramelization
- Let the glaze bubble for the full 2 minutes, it thickens up beautifully