
This red sauce chicken is a hearty stovetop meal made with tender chicken, tomato sauce, annatto, sweet corn, and optional okra, all served over fluffy rice. It is colorful, budget-friendly, and easy enough for a comforting weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Rinse the okra and place it in a bowl of cold water with the lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Let it soak for 10 minutes to help reduce its slimy texture, then drain well.

Dice the onion and garlic. Cut the chicken breast into large bite-size pieces so they cook evenly.

Cook the rice according to the package directions. Season the cooking water with a small pinch of salt and a little onion powder if desired.


Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned on the outside.


While the chicken cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the drained okra and cook, stirring often, until most of the sliminess is gone and the okra is lightly tender. Season lightly with salt and set aside.


Add the onion and garlic to the chicken. Pour in the white wine if using, then stir in the parsley, chives, cilantro, ground ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ground annatto, and salt. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion softens and turns lightly golden.

Stir in the tomato sauce, water, and corn. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly. Fold in the okra or serve it on the side.


Spoon the rice onto plates or into bowls, then top with the red sauce chicken. Serve hot.


Use tomato sauce for a looser, stew-like finish, or use tomato paste with extra water for a thicker sauce. Annatto gives the dish its signature red color, but paprika can work in a pinch. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; keep the okra separate if you want the best texture.




