Are you ready to whip up something delicious and comforting? My Sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole is a dish that brings all the cozy vibes to your kitchen! With juicy chicken, creamy coconut milk, and colorful veggies, this one-pot wonder will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe and make dinnertime a breeze!

cook Time: 35

Prep Time: 10

Yields: 6

calories: 596

simple Ingredients for Delicious Sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole

In this delightful recipe for Sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole, you’ll find a collection of ingredients that blend together to create comfort food at its finest. Here’s what you’ll need:

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are perfect for soaking up flavors and staying juicy throughout the cooking process.
2 teaspoons garlic salt: This will enhance the taste of your chicken and rice.
1/4 cup canola oil: We’ll use this in two parts for cooking the chicken and stir-frying the aromatics.
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger: Fresh ginger brings a wonderful zing to the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds depth and richness to the flavors.
1 ½ cups uncooked sushi rice: Rinsing this rice is key to achieving that sticky texture we love!
1 3/4 cups chicken broth: This will provide moisture and boost the savory essence of the casserole.
1 (13 1/2 oz) can unsweetened coconut milk: The creamy richness of coconut milk is what makes this dish incredibly comforting.
2 cups multicolored baby bell peppers: They add a pop of color and a mild sweetness.
8 oz sugar snap peas: These lend a nice crunch and freshness.
2 large scallions: For a touch of onion flavor and garnish.
1/2 cup coarsely chopped dry roasted peanuts: These add a tasty crunch on top.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro: This will brighten the dish up.
1 lime: Cut into wedges for adding a zesty squeeze before serving.
Sriracha sauce: For those who love a spicy kick!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to satisfy. Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these steps to make your Sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole come to life:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly.

prep the Chicken: Sprinkle the garlic salt over both sides of the chicken thighs. This will season them beautifully.

Sear the Chicken: In a Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add half of the chicken pieces and cook for about 3 minutes per side untill golden brown. Remove these to a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken.

Sauté the Aromatics: In the same Dutch oven, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil.Next, add the minced ginger, garlic, and sushi rice. Stir constantly for about 1 minute or until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients: Gradually add in the chicken broth, coconut milk, bell peppers, sugar snap peas, and scallions. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful browned bits.

Add Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the pot, making sure to include any juices from the plate. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Bake: Once boiling, remove from heat and cover with a lid. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the rice has absorbed all the liquid, and the chicken is cooked through.the internal temperature of the chicken should read 165°F (74°C).

Serve: Once done, fluff the rice and serve the casserole in bowls. Top with peanuts, cilantro, lime wedges, and a drizzle of Sriracha if desired.

And there you have it! A comforting, flavorful casserole that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking!

Serving and Storage information for Sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole

Once your Sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole is ready, it’s time to dig in! This dish is not only delicious but also versatile for serving. Here’s how to enjoy it to the fullest:

Serving

This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.
serve the casserole hot, garnished with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges to elevate the flavors.
Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it alongside some homemade coconut dipping sauce or a simple soy sauce for added flavor.

Storage

If you have leftovers (which is usually the case with such a tasty dish!),follow these storage tips:

Refrigerate: Let the casserole cool wholly before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container or use freezer bags for easy meal prep. It’s best enjoyed within 3 months of freezing.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers,here’s how to reheat:

Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish,cover with a damp paper towel,and heat for 2-3 minutes,stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

By following these tips, you can savor every delightful bite of your sticky Coconut Chicken and rice Casserole!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole

Cooking can sometimes come with challenges, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some handy notes and troubleshooting tips for this sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Recipe Notes

Chicken Thighs vs.Breasts: While I use boneless,skinless chicken thighs for their flavor and tenderness,you can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer. just be sure to check the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster.
Rice Selection: Using sushi rice gives you that essential sticky texture,but if you can’t find it,jasmine rice works in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the cooking liquid as needed.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in different vegetables! Carrots and broccoli are great additions, and you can use frozen peas for a swift option.

Troubleshooting Tips

Rice Too Hard: If your rice is chewy, it may not have absorbed enough liquid. Next time, try adding a bit more chicken broth or coconut milk.
Casserole Dry: If your casserole turns out dry, it could be due to over-baking. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness early.
Too Spicy: If you find the dish too spicy after adding Sriracha, balance it out with extra coconut milk or a dollop of plain yogurt on top.

With these notes and troubleshooting tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create a delicious Sticky Coconut Chicken and Rice Casserole every time!