• If serving with chicken, start by preparing my Baked Chicken Thighs (click here for directions). You'll only need a half batch (4 thighs).

Soup Base

• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the red onion, jalapeño, garlic, ginger, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 7–8 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent. Don't rush this step! You don't want crunchy onion bits in the finished soup. Reduce the heat if needed to prevent browning.
• Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, tomato paste, and another 1/4 tsp salt. Cook, stirring constantly, for another 3–4 minutes, until the tomato paste has slightly darkened in color. Don't let it burn or it will turn bitter!
• Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to smoothly incorporate the tomato paste. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat as needed and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep the soup at a gentle simmer, not a boil.
• While whisking constantly, slowly add the measure peanut butter, a little at a time, until completely incorporated and smooth. Continue simmering gently for another 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup has thickened slightly and the flavors are nicely concentrated. Don't let the soup boil.
• Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro, if using. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on the peanut butter used, I typically add another 1/4–3/4 teaspoon salt. Add gradually and taste as you go until flavors are vibrant!

Rice & Assembly

• Prepare the brown rice according to package directions (or make my baked brown rice). Divide the rice among four bowls, using one Minute Rice container per bowl or about 1 cup baked brown rice. Ladle the hot peanut broth over the rice, then add one baked chicken thigh to each bowl, if using.
• Now comes the fun part! Drizzle with Sriracha (I like a good amount!), sprinkle on extra cilantro, and squeeze fresh lime juice over everything. Finish with plenty of chopped honey-roasted peanuts and crispy fried onions, if using. Enjoy immediately!