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Caribbean Chicken and Rice

This flavorful Caribbean Chicken and Rice dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices, all cooked together with rice for a delicious, one-pot meal that transports you to the tropics.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Caribbean
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot or Dutch oven
  • 1 wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 serving bowls

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, drained (14 oz/400 g)
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth (360 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  • Add the seasoned chicken to the pot, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until it's browned on all sides.
  • Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Once boiling, stir in the rice, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender.
  • In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas, cover again, and allow them to heat through.
  • Remove the pot from heat, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce.
This dish can be made in advance and reheated for easy meals.
Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.