Tropical Comfort Dish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
04 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
07 - ½ teaspoon paprika
08 - Salt and pepper, to taste
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

→ For the Coconut Rice

10 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
11 - 1 ½ cups coconut milk (canned, full-fat for richness)
12 - 1 ½ cups water or chicken broth (for added flavor)
13 - 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
14 - 1 small onion, diced
15 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
16 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
17 - Salt to taste

→ For Garnish (Optional)

18 - Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
19 - Lime wedges
20 - Shredded coconut, toasted

# Instructions:

01 - In a small bowl, combine cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts. Drizzle with fresh lime juice.
02 - Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the pan and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and aromatics. Pour in the coconut milk and water (or broth). Stir and bring to a simmer.
05 - Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
06 - Fluff the coconut rice with a fork and divide it onto four plates. Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the rice. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut, and a wedge of lime. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option.
02 - Add a sliced chili pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
03 - Swap white rice with jasmine or basmati for a more aromatic option.
04 - This dish pairs well with a simple cucumber salad or roasted vegetables.

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