Caribbean Chicken with Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Jerk Chicken

01 - 5-6 chicken thighs, around 2½-3 pounds in total
02 - 1½ teaspoons salt for seasoning
03 - 1-2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning (use more or less to taste)
04 - Optional: ½ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

→ Rice Base

05 - 2 cups long-grain rice, uncooked
06 - 2 small bay leaves
07 - Half a medium onion, chopped finely
08 - 4 tablespoons canola oil for cooking
09 - 2 minced garlic cloves
10 - 1 sprig fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)

→ Liquid and Seasonings

11 - 1 can of red kidney beans (15.5 oz)—rinse and drain first
12 - Coconut milk, one can (13.5 oz)
13 - 2 to 2¼ cups chicken broth (or water if you prefer)
14 - 1 teaspoon of white pepper
15 - 1½-2 teaspoons of jerk or Creole seasoning
16 - Optional: Add paprika, 1 teaspoon
17 - Salt and pepper to balance the flavors
18 - Optional: A whole scotch bonnet pepper
19 - Green onion for a garnish, if you want
20 - Another teaspoon of chicken bouillon powder, if desired

# Instructions:

01 - Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) to heat up.
02 - Rinse the thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Slice a few cuts (½ inch) near the bones, then rub in salt, jerk seasoning, and the bouillon powder.
03 - Warm up 2 tablespoons of oil in an oven-safe pot. Sear both sides of the chicken for about 3 minutes each. Remove the chicken, then clean the pot gently.
04 - Add garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and onion to the heated pot with any leftover oil. Let them soften for 2-3 minutes.
05 - Pour in rice, red beans, broth, coconut milk, and seasonings. Put the chicken back on top. Bring everything to a boil, then put the pot in the oven (uncovered) and bake for 30-35 minutes.
06 - Let it sit for a few minutes to cool. Sprinkle green onion on top before digging in, if you'd like.

# Notes:

01 - You can use taco seasoning instead of jerk if needed.
02 - Rinse your rice to keep it fluffy and light.
03 - Check your chicken’s temperature—it should be 165°F inside.