Coconut Milk Chicken
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish to brighten up your dinner table, let me introduce you to my beloved Coconut Milk Chicken. This recipe is close to my heart, combining tender poached chicken with a rich, creamy coconut sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes busy weeknights feel special or turns a simple family gathering into a feast of warmth and joy.
What I love most about this Coconut Milk Chicken is its perfect balance of spice and creaminess. The gentle poaching method ensures that the chicken remains juicy, while the aromatic curry paste adds just the right amount of zing. Whether you’re serving it over steamed rice for a cozy dinner or enjoying leftovers for lunch, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: The mild flavors combined with the creamy coconut make it appealing for both kids and adults alike!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients based on what you have at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delightful Coconut Milk Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich flavor and creamy texture that makes this dish so special. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil (or canola oil)
- 1 Onion (diced)
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Ginger (minced)
- 4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1 Red Chili (minced)
- (2) 14-ounce cans Coconut Milk
- 2 to 3 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 3 Tablespoons Red Curry Paste
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 1 1/2 lbs. Chicken Breast (sliced)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- Cilantro, Chili Oil or Chili Crunch, Scallions, Fresh Lime
- Steamed Rice
Variations
This Coconut Milk Chicken recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few variations to keep things interesting:
- Swap the protein: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
- Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Change up the spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some turmeric or cumin for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add more red chili or include sliced jalapeños if you love heat!
How to Make Coconut Milk Chicken
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a large, deep skillet over medium heat and adding your coconut oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it begins to soften. Next, stir in the minced ginger, chopped red chili, and minced garlic. Cooking these aromatics not only builds flavor but also enhances their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Add the Coconut Milk
Once your aromas are fragrant, pour in those two cans of coconut milk along with brown sugar, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and red curry paste. This mixture creates a luscious sauce that will coat your chicken beautifully. Make sure to stir well so everything combines nicely.
Step 3: Poach the Chicken
Now it’s time to add the sliced chicken breast carefully into your simmering coconut milk mixture. Lower your heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer—this is key! Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through without turning rubbery.
Step 4: Keep It Tender
It’s important not to over-simmer your chicken! As soon as it’s cooked through, either remove it from heat or reduce it to very low. The gentle poaching method keeps all those lovely juices intact.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
To elevate your dish just before serving, squeeze in some fresh lime juice or sprinkle in chopped cilantro. Ladle generous portions of chicken and sauce over bowls of steaming rice. For that extra pop of flavor, drizzle with chili oil or sprinkle some chili crunch on top along with fresh scallions and cilantro.
Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting Coconut Milk Chicken!
Pro Tips for Making Coconut Milk Chicken
Creating the perfect Coconut Milk Chicken dish is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some tips to help you achieve that restaurant-quality flavor right in your kitchen:
-
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and herbs enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish. They add brightness and depth that dried spices simply can’t match.
-
Control the heat: Keep the heat at medium-low while poaching the chicken. This gentle cooking method ensures that the chicken stays moist and tender instead of becoming tough or rubbery.
-
Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning to your liking while cooking. A little extra soy sauce or lime juice can elevate the flavors significantly, allowing you to cater to your personal taste.
-
Don’t skip the garnishes: Adding fresh herbs or a drizzle of chili oil not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds layers of flavor that make each bite more exciting.
-
Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Coconut Milk Chicken
Serving Coconut Milk Chicken is an opportunity to impress your family or guests with vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish!
Garnishes
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbal note that complements the creamy coconut milk beautifully.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before eating brightens up the flavors, making each bite feel zesty and vibrant.
- Chili Oil: Drizzling chili oil on top not only adds a beautiful sheen but also introduces an extra kick of spice that many will love.
Side Dishes
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up all that delicious coconut milk sauce, making every bite a treat.
- Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, sugar, vinegar, and salt; it provides a crisp contrast to the creamy chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots add color and nutrients, creating balance on your plate.
- Spring Rolls: Lightly fried or fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken dish.
With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating a memorable meal that everyone will love! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this Coconut Milk Chicken recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Coconut Milk Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! It saves well, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Keep the rice separate to maintain its texture.
Freezing
- Let the Coconut Milk Chicken cool completely before freezing.
- Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best quality, label with the date.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about Coconut Milk Chicken that might help you out!
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken for Coconut Milk Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with firm tofu or shrimp for a different twist on this delicious dish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make Coconut Milk Chicken spicier?
To amp up the heat in your Coconut Milk Chicken, add extra minced red chili or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also serve it with chili oil for an extra kick!
What can I serve with Coconut Milk Chicken?
Coconut Milk Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Add a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Can I use light coconut milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can use light coconut milk if you prefer a lower-fat option. However, keep in mind that it may result in a slightly less creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this delectable Coconut Milk Chicken! It’s not just about the ingredients but the warmth and love infused into every bite. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as comforting leftovers throughout the week. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with delightful aromas!
Coconut Milk Chicken
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
Coconut Milk Chicken is a heartwarming dish that elevates any dinner table with its creamy, rich flavors and tender poached chicken. The combination of aromatic spices and coconut milk creates a delightful sauce that both nourishes and comforts. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this recipe is quick, easy, and adaptable to suit your taste. Serve it over steaming rice or enjoy it as leftovers for lunch—the deliciousness only gets better the next day!
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil (or canola oil)
- 1 Onion (diced)
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Ginger (minced)
- 4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1 Red Chili (minced)
- (2) 14-ounce cans Coconut Milk
- 2 to 3 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 3 Tablespoons Red Curry Paste
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 1.5 lbs. Chicken Breast (sliced)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Garnishes: Cilantro, Chili Oil or Chili Crunch, Scallions, Fresh Lime
- Steamed Rice
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for about 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced ginger, garlic, and red chili; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in coconut milk, brown sugar, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and red curry paste; stir well to combine.
- Carefully add sliced chicken breast to the simmering sauce; reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let sit briefly before serving. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and garnish with cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
