Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet

Name: Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnishing

Highlighted under: Local Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet! It's a delightful blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the creaminess of coconut and the heartiness of chickpeas. The dish is not only nourishing but also a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I enjoy how the spices mingle with the creamy coconut milk, evoking the sunny vibes of Jamaica right in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to keep this recipe in your regular rotation.

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-14T06:41:36.201Z

As I experimented with different flavors in my kitchen, I decided to blend some tropical inspiration into a classic rice dish. The idea of combining chickpeas with coconut milk immediately appealed to me, and I was thrilled with the result. The dish not only captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine but also delivers a healthy, one-pot meal that’s rich in protein and fiber.

Each time I prepare this skillet, I'm reminded of the vibrant colors and aromas that fill the air. One key tip I discovered is to let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking; it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The end result is always a comforting bowl of goodness that satisfies both my taste buds and my health goals!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy coconut flavor balanced with chickpeas for heartiness
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners
A vibrant and colorful meal that pleases the eyes and palate

Rice Selection and Preparation

For this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet, jasmine rice not only adds a lovely floral aroma but also cooks up fluffy and tender, perfectly complementing the dish's creamy texture. If jasmine rice isn't available, you can substitute it with basmati rice; however, be aware that basmati may require slightly different cooking times. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps prevent clumping during cooking.

Another key point is to ensure you're working with a quality coconut milk. Look for brands that use pure coconut extract without additives for the best flavor. Light coconut milk is an option if you're looking to reduce calories, but it might alter the richness of the dish. In this recipe, the coconut milk combines with vegetable broth to create a creamy cooking liquid that infuses the rice and chickpeas with a tropical essence.

Spice Blending and Flavor Development

The spices in this recipe—curry powder and allspice—are crucial for building the dish's flavorful profile. Curry powder introduces a warm, earthy note, while allspice adds a subtle sweetness that balances the creaminess. To enhance the flavors even further, consider toasting the curry powder in the olive oil for about 30 seconds before adding the onions. This minor step releases essential oils from the spices, amplifying their aromas and flavors throughout the dish.

When sautéing the vegetables, ensure the onions become translucent before adding garlic and ginger. Garlic can burn quickly, leading to bitterness, so it’s important to watch for a golden color, about 2 minutes after adding. The ginger provides a fresh zest that lifts the entire dish, making it not only comforting but also invigorating. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice levels according to your preference—add a pinch of chili powder if you enjoy a kick!

Serving and Storage Tips

Once served, this skillet dish makes for great leftovers. Allow it to cool entirely before transferring to an airtight container; it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth to the skillet to prevent drying out and warm over medium heat, stirring gently. The rice may absorb moisture during storage, so this tip will help regain its creamy consistency.

When it comes to serving, I love pairing this vibrant dish with a side of sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, which adds a nutritious crunch. For added flavor, a squeeze of lime just before serving brightens up the dish. If you're looking to experiment, feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added color and nutrition.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 cup jasmine rice
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnishing

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Directions

Sauté Onions and Spices

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, ginger, curry powder, and allspice, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the jasmine rice, followed by the chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the spices according to your preferences. Adding chopped bell peppers or spinach can enhance the nutrition and flavor even more.

Tips for Success

The success of this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet lies in the cooking technique. When adding the rice and liquids to the skillet, stir the mixture well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients. This allows the rice to absorb the flavor from the coconut and spices evenly. Additionally, do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering; this traps steam and maintains the moisture level necessary for proper cooking.

If you find that your rice hasn't cooked through after the recommended time, but you can see that there’s still liquid in the skillet, simply cover it again and continue to simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. As different rice brands can vary in cooking time, keeping an eye on it will help you achieve the desired texture without overcooking.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable; you can substitute chickpeas with other legumes, such as black beans or lentils, depending on what you have at hand. If you want a protein boost, add diced chicken or tofu during the sautéing stage for a heartier version. Remember to adjust the cooking times for additional proteins as required.

For a different flavor twist, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari for an umami kick, or switch out the olive oil for coconut oil to enhance the coconut flavor. If you're preparing this for a crowd, the recipe can be easily doubled. Just ensure that your skillet is spacious enough to accommodate the larger quantity, or divide it between two skillets to maintain even cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can! However, brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjust accordingly.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it great for vegans and vegetarians.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.