Step 1

Place rice in a medium bowl and pour in cold water to cover. Agitate rice with your hands until water is cloudy. Drain and repeat until water is almost clear (about 3 times). Pour in water to cover rice by 2"; let soak 30–45 minutes.

Step 2

Heat oil in a heavy pot with a wide base (preferably 10") over medium-high. Add shallot and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring until softened, about 1 minute.

Step 3

Add chicken, turmeric, cayenne, and 1½ tsp. salt. Cook, turning and moving around chicken thighs as needed, until chicken begins to turn opaque, about 2 minutes. Pour in ¾ cup water and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer, turning chicken once, until chicken is cooked through and very tender, about 20 minutes.

Step 4

Drain rice and add to pot with chicken, then add coconut milk and remaining 1 tsp. salt. Stir to incorporate and bring to a boil. Drape a kitchen towel over pot; cover with lid. Bring corners of towel up and over lid and secure with a rubber band. Reduce heat to lowest setting and cook, undisturbed, 15 minutes.

Step 5

Remove from heat and remove towel and lid. Arrange kale in an even layer over chicken and rice and cover with lid. Let sit until wilted, about 10 minutes.

Step 6

Divide chicken and rice among bowls. Top with chiles if using. Serve with lime wedges.