Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet

Name: Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Traditional Favorites

I absolutely adore this Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet. The combination of creamy coconut milk and hearty chickpeas takes a simple weeknight meal to a whole new level. Plus, it's packed with flavor from the spices and fresh ingredients, making it a colorful addition to the dinner table. I love how easy it is to whip up for a last-minute gathering, and the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day. Trust me; you’ll want to savor every bite of this delightful dish!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:14:37.158Z

When I first tried this dish, I was blown away by the blend of spices and the richness of the coconut milk. The chickpeas add a wonderful texture that complements the fluffy rice perfectly. I experimented with the ratios of coconut milk and spices, realizing that a light hand with the seasoning allowed the coconut's creaminess to shine while still giving a distinct flavor. It truly showcases how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something incredible.

One of my favorite tips is to add fresh cilantro and lime juice just before serving, as it brightens up the dish and rounds out the flavors beautifully. You can adjust the heat level by varying the amount of pepper you use, making this skillet customizable for your taste. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily modified with whatever vegetables you have on hand!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk adds a rich flavor you're sure to crave.
Chickpeas make this dish hearty and satisfying.
Easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights.

      

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Achieving the ideal rice texture is crucial in this dish. Make sure to rinse the long-grain rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch; this helps prevent it from becoming gummy. When adding the liquids, ensure they are at room temperature for an even cook. If you find your rice cooking unevenly, stir the mixture lightly once during simmering to redistribute any ingredients that may have settled. This small adjustment can improve the overall texture dramatically.

It's also important to keep an eye on the heat. Once you've brought your dish to a gentle boil, make sure to lower the heat sufficiently to truly simmer, as too much heat could lead to uneven cooking or scorched grains on the bottom. The rice should absorb the coconut milk and broth while becoming perfectly tender – this should take around 20 minutes. If your rice isn’t tender after this time, you may need to add a splash more broth or coconut milk and cover it back up.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

This dish's beauty lies in its flexibility. If you're looking to switch up the protein, lentils could serve as a great substitute for chickpeas, lending a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining a hearty texture. Alternatively, if you're not a fan of coconut milk, you can try using almond milk or vegetable broth for a lighter version. Just remember that these alternatives may alter the creaminess and richness that coconut milk provides.

Fresh ingredients can also be tailored to your preferences. Feel free to swap the bell pepper for a zucchini or some grated carrot to add a different layer of sweetness. You could even add diced tomatoes for acidity or spinach for some greens. These swaps won’t detract from the dish; rather, they’ll create a personal twist while maintaining the essence of the Jamaican-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Skillet

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Here’s how to make it:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they're soft. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, curry powder, and paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Rice and Liquids

Pour in the rice, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Simmer

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

Incorporate Chickpeas

Stir in the chickpeas, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let it sit for another 5 minutes to warm the chickpeas through.

Serve

Fluff the rice mixture with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños when sautéing the onions. You can also substitute quinoa for rice for a protein-packed option or toss in your favorite seasonal vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Jamaican Coconut Chickpea Rice Skillet stores wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer the dish to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions for up to two months. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to prevent condensation and ice crystals.

When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture, as the rice may dry out after refrigeration or freezing. Heat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered with a damp paper towel, for about 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through for even heating.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own, but it can be enhanced with various toppings or sides. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess that complements the rich coconut flavor beautifully. Additionally, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the meal.

For those who enjoy a hint of heat, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors significantly. You could also serve it with warm naan or flatbreads to scoop up the coconut chickpea mixture, making for a fun and interactive dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure that all your other ingredients, like broth, are plant-based.

→ What if I don’t have coconut milk?

You can substitute with any non-dairy milk, but the flavor will change. Adding a bit of almond or cashew butter can help mimic the creaminess.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorites, such as spinach, zucchini, or carrots, during the sautéing process.