When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, rice dishes hold a special place in Caribbean kitchens. This Easy Chicken Flavoured Rice Recipe is one I reach for when I want something full of flavor but not too heavy. It’s a versatile rice dish that works just as well in the heat of summer as it is very light, yet warm and comforting during the cozy months of fall and winter.
Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, I remember enjoying versions of seasoned rice made by my aunt. That same comforting flavor is what I wanted to capture here, with the added richness of chicken bouillon and the earthy, slightly nutty taste of roucou (annatto extract). Roucou not only deepens the flavor but also gives the rice a beautiful color—something we inherited from the native peoples of the Caribbean.
This dish is also closely related to the loosely named “Spanish Rice” that we often enjoy on the islands. What makes it special is how easily it adapts to what you have on hand. You can keep it simple for a weekday meal, or elevate it with garlic, ginger, and even a bit of heat from scotch bonnet pepper if you like things spicy. Either way, this seasoned rice delivers big flavor in a straightforward recipe anyone can master.
I recommend following along with the video below, as it covers more information.
Ingredient Guide
- Butter: Adds richness and a silky base for sautéing the aromatics.
- Onion: Provides a savory, slightly sweet flavor that builds the foundation of the dish.
- Black Pepper: Balances the richness with a mild, earthy heat.
- Sea Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the rice and vegetables.
- Thyme: A staple Caribbean herb that adds depth and fragrance.
- Celery with Leaves: Brings freshness and a subtle herbal note.
- Pimento Peppers: Mild, fruity peppers used across the Caribbean for gentle flavor and aroma.
- Chicken Bouillon Powder: Infuses the rice with savory, chicken-style seasoning.
- Roucou (Annatto Extract): Adds earthy flavor and a striking red-orange hue.
- Par-Boiled Brown Rice: Holds its texture well during cooking, resulting in fluffy grains.
- Chicken Stock: Deepens the flavor and gives the rice body.
- Water: Helps balance the liquid ratio for perfect texture.
- Chives: A fresh, grassy finish is added at the end for brightness.
Optional Ingredients: Garlic, ginger, and hot peppers add extra layers of flavor and spice.
Cooking Notes from the Kitchen
- Do not over-stir the rice after adding the liquid, or the grains can become mushy.
- Butter adds richness, but you can substitute it with vegetable oil, olive oil, coconut oil, or a combination of butter and oil if you prefer.
- If using white rice, reduce the cooking time as it cooks faster than par-boiled brown rice.
- For a spicy kick, add finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper during cooking or sprinkle with red pepper flakes at the start.
Shopping Made Easy
- Roucou (also known as annatto extract) can be found in Caribbean grocery stores or purchased online. Some Latin markets may carry it under the name annatto.
- Pimento peppers are often sold in Caribbean and Latin American stores. If you cannot find them, use a sweet pepper for a mild flavor.
- Par-boiled brown rice is widely available in supermarkets and is sometimes labeled as converted rice.
- Fresh thyme is best, but dried thyme is a suitable substitute in a pinch. Use less if dried, as it’s more concentrated.
- Chives can be substituted with green onions if needed.
What is roucou (annatto extract) and why is it used in rice?
Roucou, also known as annatto extract, is made from the seeds of the achiote tree. It’s used across the Caribbean and Latin America for its earthy flavor and natural coloring. This roucou adds both taste and a beautiful red-orange tint.
Can I substitute white rice for brown rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute white rice for brown rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter, as well as the amount of liquid you use. Keep an eye on the pot to ensure the rice doesn’t overcook and turn mushy.
What can I substitute for pimento peppers if I’m unable to find them?
If pimento peppers are unavailable, you can use a small sweet bell pepper or a cubanelle pepper. They won’t have the same flavor, but they provide a similar mild sweetness.
Is this rice dish spicy?
Not necessarily. The base recipe is mild, but you can make it spicy by adding diced scotch bonnet pepper or red pepper flakes. This makes it easy to adjust the heat level to your liking.
Easy Chicken Flavoured Rice Recipe
Description
Chicken-flavored rice. A comforting and flavourful seasoned rice with Caribbean roots, this dish balances lightness for summer with warmth for fall and winter. The addition of roucou (annatto extract) lends both earthy flavor and a vibrant color, a culinary gift from the native peoples of the Caribbean. Similar to “Spanish Rice” enjoyed across the islands, this recipe is versatile, simple, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat the butter in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the onion, black pepper, salt, thyme, celery, and pimento peppers. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for 3 minutes.
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Push everything to the side of the pan, clearing the center. Add the chicken bouillon powder and toast lightly.
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Stir in the roucou and mix well to combine the flavors. Cook for another 2 minutes.
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Add the washed and drained rice, stirring gently to coat with the seasonings.
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Pour in the chicken stock and water. Increase the heat and bring to a boil.
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Reduce to a simmer, partially cover with a lid, and cook for 25 minutes.
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Turn off the stove, cover fully, and let the rice rest on the hot burner for 10–15 minutes.
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Fluff with a fork and fold in the chopped chives before serving. I enjoy this with Stewed Oxtail as well as Jamaican Steamed Snapper.
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Optional Ingredients: 1 teaspoon grated garlic | 1 teaspoon grated ginger | 1 small scotch bonnet pepper (finely diced) or dried pepper flakes. To make this rice dish fully vegan or vegetarian, use vegan or vegetarian stock and stock powder.
