Jerk Chicken with Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Jerk Chicken

01 - Approximately 5-6 chicken thighs, about 2½-3 pounds total
02 - Season with 1½ teaspoons of salt
03 - 1-2 tablespoons of jerk spice mix (adjust to your preference)
04 - Optional: Add ½ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

→ Rice Mix

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

→ Liquids and Spices

11 - One can (15.5 oz) red kidney beans—drained and rinsed
12 - One can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
13 - 2-2¼ cups of chicken stock (or water works too)
14 - 1½-2 teaspoons of jerk or Creole spice blend
15 - Optional: Stir in 1 teaspoon of paprika
16 - Salt and pepper to your taste
17 - 1 teaspoon of ground white pepper
18 - Optional: Add a whole scotch bonnet chili
19 - Green onions for a sprinkle, if desired
20 - Optional: Another teaspoon of bouillon powder

# Instructions:

01 - Get your oven going at 350°F (177°C).
02 - Give the chicken thighs a rinse and pat dry. Make shallow cuts, about ½-inch deep, along the bone. Rub in salt, jerk spice, and bouillon powder for flavor.
03 - Pour 2 tablespoons of oil into a large ovenproof pot. Brown each chicken piece for 3 minutes on each side, then set it aside to rest. Wipe the pot clean.
04 - Toss garlic, onion, bay leaves, and thyme into the pot along with the leftover oil. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
05 - Mix up the rice, beans, coconut milk, broth, and seasonings in the pot. Place the chicken on top. Let it come to a boil, then move to the oven uncovered for 30-35 minutes.
06 - Let it sit for a few minutes before digging in. Sprinkle green onion on top if you'd like.

# Notes:

01 - If you're out of jerk seasoning, Creole or taco seasoning gets the job done.
02 - Washing your rice helps it cook up fluffier.
03 - Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F internally for safety.