Coconut Lime Chicken Thighs with Cilantro Rice

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp grated lime zest
• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: lime wedges and extra cilantro

Steps

1. 1 In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, and lime zest. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they're well coated; marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. 2 Rinse rice until water runs clear, then cook with water and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over medium heat until tender.
3. 3 During the last 5 minutes of rice cooking, stir in cilantro and garlic.
4. 4 Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. 5 Remove chicken from marinade and season with salt and pepper. Sear skin-side down in skillet until golden, about 5 minutes.
6. 6 Transfer skillet to oven and bake until chicken is cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
7. 7 Serve chicken over cilantro rice, garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.

Equipment

• Oven-safe skillet
• Saucepan

Variations

• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the marinade or sprinkle chili flakes over the chicken before baking.

Substitutions

• If jasmine rice isn't available, substitute with basmati rice.
• Use coconut aminos for a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a tropical fruit salad or a simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
• Marinating the chicken longer will enhance the flavor, up to overnight in the fridge.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven to preserve texture.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh mango salsa or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

FAQ