Spicy Maple Chicken with Coconut Rice 

This dish offers a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, combining tender chicken glazed in a rich maple syrup and sriracha sauce, served over creamy coconut-infused jasmine rice. The balance of sweetness and heat, complemented by the aromatic coconut rice, creates a comforting and satisfying meal. It's an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, bringing together simple ingredients to create a memorable culinary experience.

Ingredients

For the Spicy Maple Chicken:

• 1 lb (≈450 g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  
  

• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
  
  

• 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
  
  

• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  
  

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  
  

• 1 tsp fresh garlic, minced
  
  

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
  
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
  

For the Coconut Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine rice
  
  

• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
  
  

• 1 cup water
  
  

• Pinch of salt
  
  

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
  
  

• Lime wedges
  
  

• Toasted coconut flakes
  
  

• Sliced green onions

Directions

1. Prepare the Coconut Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
   
   

2. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, sriracha, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then toss them in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for 10–15 minutes.
   
   

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Pour in any remaining marinade and let it simmer for 2 minutes to coat the chicken in the sauce.
   
   

4. Assemble the Dish: Serve the spicy maple chicken over a bed of coconut rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, toasted coconut flakes, and sliced green onions, if desired.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 550
  
  

• Protein: 30g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 60g
  
  

• Fat: 20g