Best Hyperwear Workout Gear (How I Actually Use It For Functional Fitness)

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When it comes to fitness equipment, I don’t want a garage full of gadgets that collect dust—I want versatile gear that helps me train smarter, move better, provides functional resistance and prepare for whatever adventure comes next. That’s why I keep reaching for Hyperwear, whether I’m lifting in my home gym, walking the neighborhood, hiking trails, training for DEKA or Spartan races, or simply looking to make my workouts more efficient. From weighted vests and ruck packs to sandbells, battle ropes, sandbags, and wearable weights, Hyperwear makes equipment that’s built to move with your body—not fight against it.

Whether your goal is building strength, improving endurance, supporting bone health after 50, or simply getting more out of the workouts you’re already doing, there’s a piece of Hyperwear gear that can help. Here’s what I use most often and why each one has earned a permanent place in my training routine.

Hyperwear Weighted Vests – Fit, Elite and Pro  

This is the Elite Vest, I have it loaded to 15 pounds. The FIT vest in top picture goes up to 10 pounds and is perfect entry level.

If I had to choose just one piece of equipment, it would be a Hyperwear Weight Vest – I personally have the Hyper FIT Vest and the Hyper Elite Vest.

Unlike bulky weighted vests that bounce around or feel stiff, all three of these vests are designed specifically to move with your body. Its slim, body-hugging fit keeps the weight close to your center of gravity, making it comfortable for everything from walking and hiking to bodyweight workouts and stair climbing. The FIT vest, specifically, is designed for a woman’s body. All these vests features adjustable weights, so you can start lighter and gradually increase resistance as you get stronger—a huge advantage if you’re new to weighted training or want room to progress. The stretchy, breathable fabric helps keep you cool, and because it fits close to your body, it doesn’t restrict your range of motion.

I wear mine for:

  • Neighborhood walks
  • Incline treadmill sessions
  • Bodyweight strength workouts
  • Hiking
  • Mobility circuits
  • DEKA and Spartan conditioning workouts

Best for: Anyone wanting one piece of equipment that can make almost every workout more challenging. Great for muscular skeletal strength and upping your cardio a bit!

Hyperwear Sandbags

Don’t let the simple design fool you—Hyperwear’s soft sandbags deliver a serious workout. Unlike rigid barbells or dumbbells, the shifting sand creates an unstable load that forces your core and stabilizer muscles to work harder with every rep. They’re ideal for carries, squats, cleans, presses, lunges, and rotational movements that mimic real-life lifting. The soft-shell construction is comfortable to shoulder and hug, making them a great tool for functional strength training at home or outdoors.

Best for: Functional strength, total-body workouts, carries, rotational power, and athletic conditioning.

Hyperwear Battle Ropes

Battle ropes are one of my favorite ways to combine strength and cardio into one efficient workout. In just a few minutes, they can elevate your heart rate while challenging your shoulders, arms, back, core, and legs. Hyperwear’s battle ropes are built for durability and designed to withstand repeated waves, slams, circles, and power movements, making them perfect for HIIT workouts, conditioning circuits, or adding a high-intensity finisher to a strength session. What makes them stand out from other battle ropes is that the use of an anchor is optional– you can slam them anywhere, and I do!

Hyperwear Wrist Weights

When I want just a little extra challenge without picking up dumbbells, I grab my Hyperwear wrist weights. They look “innocent” but trust me the burn is real!

Unlike traditional strap-on ankle weights that tend to slide or feel bulky, Hyperwear’s ergonomic design stays comfortably in place while allowing your arms to move naturally. They’re an easy way to increase the intensity of walking workouts, dance fitness, shadow boxing, cardio intervals, or light strength sessions without changing your routine.

Because they’re lightweight and compact, they’re also easy to toss into a gym bag or suitcase when traveling. I especially like using them when I want a little extra upper-body work during cardio without committing to a full strength workout.

Best for: Walking, cardio, travel workouts, active recovery, and beginners looking for a small progression.

Hyper Ruck Backpack

If you already enjoy walking or hiking, the Hyper Ruck is one of the easiest ways to level up your fitness.

This isn’t just a backpack with weight tossed inside—it’s purpose-built for rucking. It features padded sleeves that keep weight plates positioned high and close to your back for better comfort and balance, plus an adjustable chest strap and removable hip belt to stabilize heavier loads. It even includes a hydration sleeve for longer adventures and enough storage for everyday gear, making it practical beyond workouts.

One feature I really appreciate is its versatility. The Hyper Ruck also includes multiple grab handles, so it can double as a functional training tool for carries, squats, lunges, and other strength exercises—not just walking. I’m using mine to train for a Grand Canyon adventure coming up.

I use mine for:

  • Neighborhood rucks
  • Trail hikes
  • Airport travel  (without the weights!)
  • Outdoor conditioning
  • Long walks when I want more of a challenge

Best for: Walkers, hikers, outdoor athletes, and anyone wanting a low-impact conditioning workout.

Hyperwear SandBell

The SandBell might be the most versatile piece of equipment in my garage gym. Imagine combining the best features of a medicine ball, sandbag, slam ball, and kettlebell into one piece of equipment.

Because the SandBell is filled with sand and made from soft neoprene, the weight shifts as you move. That creates a unique training stimulus by forcing your stabilizer muscles to work harder than they would with rigid equipment. You can safely toss, slam, drag, carry, swing, squat, rotate, and lunge without worrying about damaging your floors or equipment. Hyperwear offers SandBells in a wide range of weights, making them suitable for beginners all the way to advanced athletes.

I use mine for:

  • SandBell tosses
  • Rotational core work
  • Loaded carries
  • Over-the-shoulder throws
  • Conditioning circuits
  • Functional strength workouts

If you’ve watched my social media, you’ve probably seen plenty of SandBell tosses—they’re one of my favorite exercises for building explosive power while making workouts feel more like play than work.

Best for: Functional fitness, home gyms, athletic conditioning, HIIT workouts, and total-body strength.

Which One Should You Buy First?

If you’re only buying one piece, here’s how I’d decide:

  • New to weighted training? Start with the Hyper Vest FIT. It’s the easiest way to make the workouts you’re already doing more effective.
  • Love walking or hiking? The Hyper Ruck is a fantastic upgrade that adds strength and endurance without adding impact. I’m using mine to train for a Grand Canyon hike
  • Want one tool for dozens of exercises? Go with the SandBell. It’s incredibly versatile and works for strength, power, core, and conditioning. I’ve even used mine for assisted stretching.
  • Looking for a simple add-on? Wrist weights are an affordable way to increase the challenge of cardio and mobility workouts. They look harmless but, believe me, the burn is real!

Personally? I use all six mentioned here because each serves a different purpose in my training, and together they keep my workouts fresh, functional, and challenging. Shop my favorite Hyperwear gear HERE and save 10% with code THEFITFORK.

Cheesy Guacamole Crisps: Easy & Irresistible Low Carb Avocado Snack

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These Cheesy Avocado Crisps transform a few simple ingredients into a crispy, savory snack that’s perfect for everything from afternoon cravings to topping salads. Think of them as what might happen if guacamole decided it wanted a little crunch. And, if you’ve ever looked at an overripe avocado and thought, “I need to use this today,” this recipe is about to become one of your favorites. Other perks: You only need a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand and they only have about 34 calories and 1g protein per piece.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how uncomplicated it is. There’s no long shopping list or fancy equipment required (although it’s nice to have a silicone baking mat or parchment paper for baking). Otherwise, all you need is:

  • Ripe avocado
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Your favorite seasonings
  • A squeeze of fresh lime juice

Perfect for Using Up Overripe Avocados

We’ve all been there. One day your avocado isn’t quite ready, and the next it’s a little softer than you planned. Instead of tossing it, this recipe gives that perfectly ripe (or slightly overripe) avocado a delicious second life.

It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover guacamole. As long as your guacamole hasn’t become too watery, simply mix it with Parmesan and bake. It’s an easy way to reduce food waste while creating something that feels completely different from the original dip.

Easy to Customize

Another reason these crisps have earned a regular spot in my kitchen is how adaptable they are. Once you make your first batch, you’ll probably start experimenting with your own favorite spice combinations.

  • Love a little heat? Add cayenne or chipotle powder.
  • Prefer classic flavors? Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika are always winners.
  • Want a Tex-Mex twist? Stir in taco seasoning.
  • Italian-inspired? Try Italian herbs with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

A Naturally Low-Carb Snack

When you’re looking for a satisfying snack without reaching for chips or crackers, these avocado crisps check a lot of boxes. They’re naturally low in carbohydrates, gluten-free, and packed with satisfying flavor from wholesome ingredients. The healthy fats from avocado and protein from Parmesan make them surprisingly filling, making them a smart option for everything from afternoon snacking to post-workout munchies.

Made for Life on the Go

Unlike traditional guacamole, these crisps travel beautifully. They’re sturdy enough to take along wherever your day leads—something you definitely can’t say about a container of guacamole.

  • Pack them in your lunchbox for work.
  • Tuck a few into your hiking pack for a savory trail snack.
  • Throw some into your gym bag for something satisfying after a workout.
  • Or simply keep a container on the counter when you’re craving something crunchy without opening a bag of chips.
  • Toss onto a salad as grain-free “croutons”
Turn overripe avocados into crispy Parmesan avocado crisps with just a handful of ingredients. This easy, low-carb snack is perfect for lunchboxes, hikes, gym bags, and healthy snacking.
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🥑✨ Cheesy Guac Crisps✨ 🥑
Prep Time
4 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Total Time
25 mins
 
Turn overripe avocados into crispy Parmesan avocado crisps with just a handful of ingredients. This easy, low-carb snack is perfect for lunchboxes, hikes, gym bags, and healthy snacking.
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: avocado, blue cheese, low carb, parmsean
Servings: 10 pieces
Calories: 34 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1 large avocado pitted and peeled
  • ¼ cup finely grated fresh Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • ½ tsp onion powder*
  • ½ tsp garlic powder*
  • ½ tsp chili powder of choice* ancho, chipotle, cayenne, etc.
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 325F and line baking sheet with silicone mat or parchment.
  2. Mash avocado with fork and stir in cheese, spices and lime juice.
  3. Using a teaspoon or small melon-baller, scoop out small balls of the mixture and place on baking sheet, spaced 2” apart. Use back of spoon or measuring cup to flatten each ball into a thin circle, resembling a cracker.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crisp; let sit on pan to cool completely. If you make them a little too thick, they might be softer with crisped edges – but still delicious.
Recipe Notes

*can use any spices you like — or go without.

 

Irresistible Nectarine Avocado Caprese Salad (A Fresh Summer Twist!)

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If summer had an official salad with my name on it, this this Nectarine Avocado Caprese Salad might just be it! Taking everything I love about a traditional Caprese and gives it a fresh, fruit-forward makeover. Sweet, juicy nectarines step in for tomatoes while creamy avocado, fresh mozzarella pearls, crisp red onion, and cool mint create layers of flavor and texture in every bite.

Finished with fragrant mint and a drizzle of rich balsamic syrup, it’s a light yet satisfying dish that’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for an everyday lunch. The combination of sweet fruit, creamy cheese, and tangy balsamic creates the perfect balance of flavors that feels both refreshing and a little indulgent.

Even better? There’s no cooking required, making it one of those recipes you’ll reach for all summer long when it’s too hot to turn on the stove.

Why You’ll Love This Nectarine Caprese Salad

  • No cooking required. Perfect for hot summer days when you want something fresh without heating up the kitchen.
  • Ready in minutes. Just chop, assemble, and serve.
  • Naturally colorful and beautiful. It’s almost too pretty to eat—and always disappears fast.
  • Perfect for entertaining. Great for backyard BBQs, potlucks, brunches, showers, or weeknight dinners.
  • Meal prep friendly. Assemble everything ahead of time, then add the avocado and balsamic drizzle just before serving for the freshest presentation.

A Fresh Take on Traditional Caprese

Classic Caprese is all about ripe tomatoes, basil, fresh mozzarella, olive oil, and balsamic. This version keeps the spirit of that iconic Italian salad while celebrating one of summer’s best fruits – nectarines and avocado (yes, it’s a fruit!). Juicy nectarines provide a naturally sweet, slightly tangy bite that pairs beautifully with creamy mozzarella. Instead of relying on basil, fresh mint adds an unexpected burst of coolness that complements the fruit especially well.  It’s familiar enough to satisfy Caprese lovers while feeling entirely new.

Can I use Peaches Instead of Nectarines?

Yes, peaches make a natural substitution. In fact, did you know that nectarines and peaches are the exact same species (Prunus persica). The only difference between the two genetically is a  a single recessive gene variant prevents nectarines from growing the fuzzy skin that peaches are known for. And, to be honest – I prefer that! Smooth skin means there’s no peeling is required, and I find them to have a tangier, slightly bolder flavor than peaches.

Both are naturally sweet and provide vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Choosing ripe—but still slightly firm—nectarines or peaches helps the salad maintain its texture even if it’s prepared ahead of time.

Creamy Avocado Makes It Extra Satisfying

Avocado adds more than just beautiful color. The buttery texture contrasts perfectly juicy fruit while contributing heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that help make this salad surprisingly filling. Combined with protein-rich mozzarella and savory prosciutto, the salad easily works as a light lunch or a substantial side dish. Just wait to add the avocado until serving time to keep it looking vibrant and fresh.

Tips for the Best Nectarine or Peach Caprese Salad

  • Choose nectarines or peaches that are ripe but still slightly firm.
  • Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
  • Wait until the last minute to drizzle with balsamic syrup for the freshest appearance.
  • Fresh mozzarella pearls make serving easy, but torn fresh mozzarella (or chopped) works beautifully too.
  • Don’t skip the fresh mint—it gives this version its unique, refreshing flavor.
Sweet nectarines, creamy avocado, fresh mozzarella, mint, and balsamic syrup come together in this easy no-cook salad that's perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and weeknight dinners.
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Nectarine Avocado Caprese Salad
This colorful Caprese-inspired salad is packed with juicy nectarines, avocado, mozzarella pearls, red onion and fresh mint. An irresistibly summer-sweet side dish!
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: summer
Keyword: avocado, caprese, nectarine, no cook, summer
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 217 kcal
Ingredients
  • 2 nectarines ripe yet slightly firm
  • 1 large avocado ripe yet slightly firm
  • ¼ cup diced red onion
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella “pearls ” drained
  • 1 Tbsp lime juice
  • ¼ cup fresh mint chopped
  • 2 Tbsp balsamic syrup
Instructions
  1. Wash nectarines; remove pits. Chop into ½-inch pieces.
  2. Pit and peel avocado; chop into similar-sized pieces.
  3. Add nectarine and avocado to serving bowl along with mozzarella, red onion, and mint.
  4. Gently stir in lime juice as to not damage the fruit.
  5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and serve!
Recipe Notes

Easy Blackened Fish + Creamy Avocado Coconut Crema – Air Fryer or Oven

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When the weather is hot—or life is just busy—I want meals that check all the boxes: quick, nutritious, packed with protein, and loaded with flavor. This Air Fryer Blackened Fish with Avocado Coconut Crema does exactly that. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, and the air fryer means dinner is on the table fast without turning your kitchen into a sauna.

Why You’ll Love This Fish Recipe

One of my favorite things about this white fish recipe is how effortlessly it fits into an active lifestyle. The fish cooks in just minutes in the air fryer (I love this oven-style air-fryer), developing a lightly crisp, flavorful blackened crust while staying tender and flaky inside. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated—or boring.

Even better, the air fryer keeps cleanup simple and eliminates the need to heat up the entire kitchen, making this an ideal meal during warmer months. But, you CAN also prepare in a traditional oven, all the details are in the recipe below.

A High-Protein Meal That Works Hard for You

Protein is one of the most important nutrients for maintaining muscle, supporting recovery after workouts, and helping you stay satisfied between meals. Whether you’re training for a race, lifting weights, or simply trying to eat a little healthier, this meal delivers quality protein in a delicious way. White fish is a solid lean protein choice and this recipe works well with cod, pollock, halibut or tilapia – use what you like!

The addition of chickpeas boosts both the protein and fiber, creating a balanced meal that provides lasting energy and helps keep you feeling full longer. Canned chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans) keep this a quick and easy recipe. Simply drain and rinse them off — also picking off any skins that come loose.

Creamy Without the Dairy

The avocado coconut crema may be my favorite part of this dish. Instead of relying on heavy cream or sour cream, it gets its silky texture from ripe avocado and rich coconut cream from a can. Fresh cilantro and lime juice brighten everything up, creating a sauce that’s creamy, fresh, and packed with flavor. It’s a great option for anyone who avoids dairy or simply wants a lighter, dairy-free alternative that doesn’t sacrifice richness.

Choosing the Best Fish for Blackened Fish

I used wild Alaskan pollock for this recipe, a neutral, flaky white fish with a firm texture that holds up beautifully in the air fryer. Pollock has a delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with bold blackened seasoning and the creamy avocado coconut crema without overpowering the dish. It’s also a budget-friendly, sustainable seafood option that’s easy to find.

That said, this recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to use your favorite firm white fish. Cod is another great choice with large, tender flakes, while halibut offers a thicker, meatier texture and a slightly richer flavor. Tilapia works well too for a mild, affordable option that cooks quickly. Other options like haddock, mahi mahi, or even grouper can also work depending on availability. The key is choosing a fish that you enjoy and adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Endless Ways to Serve This Blackened Fish

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on your goals or whatever you have in the kitchen. Some of my favorite serving ideas include:

  • Zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lighter, veggie-packed meal
  • Steamed rice or brown rice for a heartier dinner
  • Cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option
  • Quinoa for extra protein and fiber
  • Pasta when you’re craving comfort food
  • Mixed greens for a satisfying salad bowl
  • Warm tortillas for flavorful fish tacos
  • Grain bowls loaded with roasted vegetables

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

If you’re looking for a meal that’s fast enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, this recipe delivers. The bold blackened seasoning, flaky fish, hearty chickpeas, and creamy dairy-free sauce create a combination that feels elevated without requiring much effort. It’s the kind of healthy dinner you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again—especially when you want maximum flavor with minimal time in the kitchen.

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Blacked Fish & Chickpeas with Avocado Coconut Crema
Prep Time
8 mins
Cook Time
12 mins
Total Time
20 mins
 
Healthy doesn’t have to be boring! This Air Fryer Blackened Fish with creamy avocado coconut sauce is ready in minutes, naturally dairy-free, protein-packed, and perfect for fueling an active lifestyle
Course: dinner, southwestern
Cuisine: dairyfree
Keyword: avocado, dairy-free, fish, seafood
Servings: 3 servings
Calories: 352 kcal
Ingredients
For Avocado Coconut Crema:
  • 1 medium avocado about 6-7 ounces – pitted, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut cream or can sub full-fat coconut milk from can
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro stems removed
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
For Fish:
  • 12 oz firm white fish like Pollock Cod, Halibut, even Tilapia
  • 15 oz can chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven-style air fryer to 380F or regular oven to 400F
  2. Combine all ingredients for crema in blender; process until smooth. If too thick, add just a bit more coconut milk/cream. Set aside.
  3. In small bowl, mix together the blackening spices: chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Set aside.
  4. Pat fish filets dry with paper towel and lightly brush with some of the oil. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon blackening spices (give or take, enough to rub into top and bottom of fish filets).
  5. Drizzle remaining olive oil and remaining blackening spices over chickpeas, stir until combined.
  6. Add fish and chickpeas to air fryer tray or rimmed baking sheet in single layer. Air fry for 12 minutes, flipping fish and tossing chickpeas halfway. Cook approx. 18 minutes in regular oven, flipping halfway.
  7. Serve over pasta, zoodles, roasted veggies, rice, etc along with the avocado crema.
Recipe Notes

One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice (Easy Weeknight Dinner)

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If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup, this One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice delivers. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, vegetables, and a rich, creamy ginger-infused sauce all cook together in a single Dutch oven pot, creating a comforting, flavor-packed meal with very little hands-on effort.

After just a few minutes of sautéing the vegetables and searing the chicken, the oven takes over, allowing all the flavors to meld while the rice cooks to perfection. While dinner bakes, you’ll have plenty of time to tend to any last dinner details or simply enjoy a well-earned break.

I love recipes like this because everything—protein, vegetables, rice, and sauce—is cooked together, making it a complete, balanced meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. From prep to plate in about an hour, it’s an easy family dinner that’s as satisfying as it is convenient.

INGREDIENT & EQUIPMENT NOTES

  • OLIVE OIL: Olive oil or any vegetable oil for browning chicken and sautéing the veggies
  • GARLIC & GINGER: The cornerstone of flavor in this dish. I prefer to use minced garlic from a jar (to save time and smelly hands) but the ginger flavor is hands-down if your grate it from fresh.
  • VEGGIES: You can vary the variety (like shitake mushroom instead of button) or swap veggies suit your tastes. Coarse, sturdy veggies will need to be chopped and sauteed in the onion step before placing in oven.
  • RICE:  Jasmine rice is my go-to for this recipe – the cooking time and liquid amounts are tailored for this type of long-grain rice.
  • CHICKEN:  I’ve used skinless boneless chicken breast, cut in half and the thick pieces fileted for more even cooking. Boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted.
  • COCONUT CREAM:  Full fat coconut cream from a can (unsweetened) give the most luxurious texture and flavor. But if desired you can use regular (not light) coconut milk from a can (not carton).
  • COCONUT SUGAR: The signature hint of sweetness in the sauce comes from coconut sugar, but feel free to substitute brown cane sugar or even date sugar.
  • WHAT POT TO USE: This recipe works best in a cast-iron enamel  Dutch Oven with lid ( to 5 to 6qt). It’s big enough to hold the chicken and deep enough for the rice and cooking liquid. Plus, the cast-iron enamel of these cooking vessels are designed to hold heat, which helps the rice finish up after it’s removed from oven. If in a bind, you can use another 6-quart casserole dish or pot that is OVEN PROOF and, if no lid, cover very tightly with foil.
This One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice is an easy, comforting dinner featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, vegetables, and a creamy ginger sauce. Ready in about one hour with minimal cleanup.
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One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
rest
5 mins
 

One pan, big flavor! This One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food dinner! Tender chicken, fluffy rice, veggies, and a creamy ginger sauce bake together in one dish for an easy family meal with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Course: dinner
Cuisine: Asian, family, thai
Keyword: chicken, coconut, dutch oven, one pot, rice
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup coconut cream from can well blended
  • 1 medium lime zested and juiced
  • 2 Tablespoons minced garlic from jar
  • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1.5 tablespoon grated fresh ginger you can use minced from jar, but the fresh grated REALLY makes the dish pop
  • 1.5 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon salt divided
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 4 oz button mushrooms sliced thin
  • 1/2 large onion sliced into thin vertical slices
  • 2 cups chicken broth or stock
  • 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice rinsed and drained
  • 2/3 cup matchstick carrots
  • 2/3 cup frozen edamame beans thawed
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 medium green onions thinly sliced
Instructions
  1. In medium bowl, whisk together coconut cream, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, coconut sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, grated ginger, and Sriracha sauce until smoot. Set sauce aside.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry, and cut each breast into 2 portions. If needed, on the “thick” portion of breast, use sharp filet knife to cut through the middle crossways into two portions for more even cooking. Sprinkle both sides of chicken 1 teaspoon of the salt.
  3. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium high heat. Carefully add chicken in batches into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook undisturbed until exterior is seared and lightly browning, about 3 minutes. Turn chicken and brown the other side in same manner. Transfer to a plate, and repeat the process with any remaining chicken pieces.
  4. Add onion and mushroom slices to the same Dutch oven and cook, stirring, about 3 minutes. Pour in chicken stock and stir up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add rice and remaining salt, and stir to combine.
  5. Layer in carrots and thawed, shelled edamame beans, and set par-cooked chicken breasts on top. Drizzle 3/4 cup of the ginger sauce over the chicken pieces/
  6. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350F degrees and set an oven rack in the center of the oven.
  7. Place lid on Dutch oven and transfer into the center of the preheated oven. Bake until chicken is no longer pink at the center and the juices run clear, about 25 minutes. An instant-read thermometer should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  8. Transfer Dutch oven onto a wire rack and allow to stand, covered, until the rice is completely tender, about 5-10 minutes.
  9. Place chicken on a serving platter (or keep in pot to serve). Fluff the rice and vegetables with a fork, and stir in remaining ginger sauce and chopped cilantro. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions.