If you have been searching for a delicious, hearty dish that packs the perfect punch of Caribbean flavor without a complicated process, then this Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Recipe is exactly what you need. With tenderly seasoned chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant rice cooked in creamy coconut milk, this one-pot wonder brings a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes together. It’s a dish that invites warmth to your table and is guaranteed to become a favorite, whether for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to capturing the authentic taste and texture of a classic Chicken Pelau. Each component, from the green seasoning to the brown sugar, plays a vital role in building layers of flavor that make this dish unforgettable.
- 4 lbs chicken pieces: Using thighs or drumsticks offers juicy, flavorful meat perfect for slow cooking in this dish.
- 6 tablespoons green seasoning: This herb-packed blend gives the chicken its vibrant, fresh taste.
- 1 onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the savory base.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic: Infuses fragrant warmth that enhances every bite.
- 4 tablespoons ketchup: Provides subtle tang and sweetness to the marinade.
- Hot pepper (to taste): For that unmistakable Caribbean kick tailored to your heat preference.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons oil: Needed to caramelize the sugar and brown the chicken.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Creates a beautiful caramel color and a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.
- 4 scallions (chopped): Adds fresh, sharp notes and texture contrast.
- 1 stalk celery (diced): Introduces a mild crunch and earthy flavor.
- 3 cups parboiled rice (washed and drained): The hearty base that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 2 cups dry pigeon peas (or 1 can, rinsed and drained): Classic ingredient providing protein and texture.
- 1 medium carrot (diced or 1/2 package peas and carrots): Brings a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 red bell pepper: Enhances the dish with sweet, slightly fruity tones.
- 10 thyme sprigs (chopped): Adds aromatic herbal complexity.
- 1 can coconut milk diluted with 3 cups hot water: Creates a creamy, dreamy cooking liquid that cooks the rice perfectly.
How to Make Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
The magic starts with perfectly seasoned chicken. Make sure to wash your chicken pieces well using lime or lemon juice and water to clean and brighten them. Then, toss the chicken in a marinade made with half the green seasoning, chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour allows the flavors to infuse deeply, leaving your pelau full-bodied and irresistible. For best results, marinate overnight if time permits.
Step 2: Create the Caramel Base
This step is where the dish acquires its signature rich and slightly sweet depth. Heat oil in a sturdy, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, then add the brown sugar. Watch carefully as it froths and darkens—this caramelization is key. Avoid burning it; if the sugar blacks, you’ll need to start over. This careful balance is what brings that distinct aroma and color that defines a stellar chicken pelau.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken and Build Flavors
Quickly add the marinated chicken to the caramelized sugar, stirring constantly to coat every piece beautifully. This seals in moisture and flavor while continuing to develop complexity. Then, add chopped scallions, the rest of the green seasoning, onion, and celery. Cover the pot, letting the chicken cook about 70 percent through—expect approximately 15 minutes. Stir intermittently so nothing sticks, ensuring even cooking and flavor distribution.
Step 4: Add Rice, Peas, and Vegetables
Rinsing your rice until the water runs clear is a small but important detail that keeps your pelau fluffy rather than sticky. Once drained, stir the rice into the pot along with pigeon peas, diced carrot (or peas and carrots mix), chopped bell pepper, and thyme. Cooking this combination through for a few minutes helps marry the textures and flavors before adding the liquid.
Step 5: Pour in Coconut Milk Mixture
The coconut milk diluted with hot water transforms the dish into a creamy, aromatic experience. Pour enough mixture into the pot to cover the ingredients by about an inch. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well. This cooking liquid will permeate the rice and chicken, rounding out the flavor beautifully while ensuring a moist finishing texture.
Step 6: Simmer Until Perfectly Cooked
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to allow a gentle simmer. Cover tightly to trap the steam and cook undisturbed for approximately 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed. A midway stir helps prevent sticking without breaking up the ingredients. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, ready to serve this feast in one pot.
How to Serve Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your chicken pelau from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle chopped scallions or fresh parsley for a vibrant, fresh pop of color and flavor. A wedge of lime on the side is perfect for guests to squeeze over their portions, adding exciting acidity that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
While chicken pelau is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with crunchy coleslaw or a simple cucumber salad introduces a refreshing contrast. Steamed vegetables also complement the dish well, balancing the bold, hearty flavors with light, crisp textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual dining, plate the pelau in colorful bowls that showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables and herbs. For a festive gathering, serve pelau on large platters garnished lavishly with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, encouraging everyone to dig in family-style. You might also try stuffing it into plantain cups or serving alongside fried dumplings for a complete Caribbean feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken pelau keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor. It reheats wonderfully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Recipe further into the future, freezing is an excellent choice. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat pelau gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry to restore that perfect moistness. Heating slowly ensures the chicken stays tender and the rice remains fluffy without becoming mushy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken in this Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can experiment with pork, beef, or even seafood. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as some meats may require longer or shorter cooking to become tender.
Is it necessary to use brown sugar in the pelau?
Yes, brown sugar is essential for creating the caramel base that gives pelau its characteristic color and subtle sweetness. It also balances the spices and adds depth to the dish’s flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms and add extra legumes in place of pigeon peas. Use vegetable broth instead of coconut milk diluted with water for extra richness, and remember to omit any animal-based seasonings.
What type of rice works best for this dish?
Parboiled rice is recommended because it holds its shape well and absorbs the flavors without getting mushy. If you can’t find parboiled rice, long-grain white rice is the next best substitute.
How spicy is the Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Recipe?
The heat level depends on how much hot pepper you add to taste. You can adjust it according to your preference, from mild to a fiery Caribbean kick that warms you from the inside out.
Final Thoughts
This Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Recipe is a true Caribbean classic that manages to feel both comforting and festive with minimal fuss. Whether you’re new to Caribbean cooking or a seasoned enthusiast, this recipe delivers on texture, flavor, and warmth that brings everyone at the table closer together. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it becomes one of your favorite go-to meals!
Print
Quick and Simple Chicken Pelau Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Description
This quick and simple Chicken Pelau recipe is a flavorful Caribbean one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, parboiled rice, pigeon peas, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a fragrant coconut milk broth. With a perfect balance of savory seasoning, caramelized sugar, and aromatic herbs, Pelau is a comforting, satisfying dish ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 4 lbs chicken pieces (whole chicken cut up, thighs or drumsticks, washed and drained)
- 6 tablespoons green seasoning, divided
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 4 tablespoons ketchup
- Hot pepper to taste
- Salt and pepper to season chicken
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 scallions, chopped
- 1/2 onion, chopped (remaining from marinade)
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 3 cups parboiled rice, washed and drained
- 2 cups dry pigeon peas (1 can, rinsed and drained)
- 1 medium carrot, diced (or 1/2 package peas and carrots mix)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 10 thyme sprigs, chopped
- 1 can coconut milk diluted with 3 cups hot water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut whole chicken into 2-inch pieces if using whole. Wash thoroughly using lime or lemon juice and several water changes, then drain well. In a large bowl, add chicken pieces with half of the green seasoning, 1/2 chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, salt, pepper, and hot pepper to taste. Mix well ensuring chicken is fully coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
- Caramelize Sugar: In a large deep heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and let it froth, expand, bubble, and darken carefully (do not let it burn black or smoke). If burned, discard and start over.
- Cook Chicken: Immediately add the marinated chicken to the caramelized sugar, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes to coat the chicken evenly. Then add chopped scallions, remaining onion, the rest of the green seasoning, and diced celery. Cover the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is about 70% cooked, approximately 15 minutes.
- Add Rice and Vegetables: Rinse the parboiled rice under cold running water until water runs clear, then drain. Stir the rice into the pot along with pigeon peas, diced carrots, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped thyme. Cook while stirring for 3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Add Liquid and Season: Mix the canned coconut milk with 3 cups of hot water. Pour this mixture into the pot, adding enough liquid to cover the ingredients by about one inch. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir well to combine.
- Simmer Pelau: Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer slowly for approximately 30 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and all liquid has evaporated. Stir midway to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust salt if needed before serving.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the depth of flavor.
- Careful caramelization of the sugar is essential to achieve the signature deep color and flavor without bitterness.
- If using canned pigeon peas, rinse well to reduce excess salt or preserves flavor.
- Stirring midway during simmering prevents the rice from sticking or burning at the bottom.
- For added heat, increase hot pepper quantity according to taste.
