Coconut Milk Chicken

Coconut Milk Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Thai cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe offers tender poached chicken simmered in a rich, aromatic coconut milk sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, Coconut Milk Chicken combines creamy textures with vibrant spices, making it a favorite for those who enjoy bold flavors and comforting meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal without fuss.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and fresh spices creates a deep and satisfying taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling meal that can adapt to your preferences.
• Healthier Choice: Packed with lean protein and low in carbs when served without rice, it’s a great option for health-conscious eaters.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner party, this dish is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking your Coconut Milk Chicken, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet: This allows for even cooking and simmering of the chicken in the coconut milk sauce without spilling.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your skillet’s surface.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in adding spices and sauces for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

Tender poached coconut milk chicken in a sauce with aromatics, creamy coconut milk, Thai curry paste, and spices.

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs. Chicken Breast (sliced)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Pepper

For Garnish

• Cilantro, Chili Oil or Chili Crunch, Scallions, Fresh Lime
• Steamed Rice

How to Make Coconut Milk Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until it starts to soften. Stir in minced ginger, chopped red chili, and minced garlic. Cook for 2 minutes longer until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Coconut Milk

Pour in canned coconut milk along with brown sugar, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and red curry paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients into a smooth mixture.

Step 3: Poach the Chicken

Carefully add sliced chicken breast to the simmering coconut milk mixture. Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer—avoid boiling. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Keep It Tender

Avoid over-simmering the chicken. Once cooked through, remove from heat or reduce heat to very low. The gentle poaching method preserves moisture and prevents tough texture.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

For extra brightness, stir in a squeeze of lime juice or add chopped cilantro right before serving. Ladle chicken and sauce into bowls over rice; spoon sauce generously on top. Drizzle with chili oil or chili crunch and sprinkle with scallions and fresh cilantro for added flavor.

This Coconut Milk Chicken recipe not only delivers on taste but also showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious!

How to Serve Coconut Milk Chicken

Coconut Milk Chicken is a deliciously creamy dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. You can enhance your meal by thoughtfully choosing sides and garnishes that complement the rich flavors of the chicken.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its subtle flavor and fluffy texture absorb the coconut sauce beautifully.
• Coconut Rice: For added coconut flavor, use coconut milk in your rice cooking liquid.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness and color.
• Scallions: Chopped scallions add a mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Topped with Spicy Elements

• Chili Oil: Drizzle some chili oil for a spicy kick and extra depth of flavor.
• Chili Crunch: This adds texture and heat, enhancing the overall experience.

Served with Lime Wedges

• Fresh Lime: A squeeze of lime just before eating brightens the dish and provides a zesty contrast to the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Coconut Milk Chicken

To ensure your Coconut Milk Chicken turns out tender and flavorful, follow these tips for perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs will elevate the flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Control the Heat: Cook on medium-low heat while poaching to prevent boiling; this keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking by checking for doneness at around 15-20 minutes; chicken should be fully cooked but not dry.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of red curry paste based on your spice preference to make it milder or spicier.
• Add Acid Before Serving: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving brightens flavors and enhances freshness.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Coconut Milk Chicken

Pairing your Coconut Milk Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside:

1. Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, herbs, and a tangy dressing that balances the richness of the chicken.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide sweetness and texture contrast.
3. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in soy sauce and sesame oil work well as a cool side dish.
4. Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this dessert-like side features sticky rice topped with ripe mangoes and coconut milk.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the savory flavors of Coconut Milk Chicken perfectly.
6. Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds a vibrant green element that offers crunch and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Coconut Milk Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Ignoring the aromatics: Aromatics like ginger, garlic, and onion are crucial for flavor. Sauté them until fragrant for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Poaching should be gentle. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough chicken. Keep an eye on the simmering time.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Each brand of coconut milk varies. Taste and adjust soy sauce or salt levels as needed to suit your palate.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the dish significantly. Dried alternatives won’t provide the same depth of flavor.
• Forgetting garnishes: Garnishes like cilantro and lime juice add brightness and contrast to the rich sauce. Don’t skip them for a complete dish experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Coconut Milk Chicken

• Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Coconut Milk Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Coconut Milk Chicken.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different twist on this meal.

How can I make Coconut Milk Chicken spicier?

Consider adding more red chili or a splash of sriracha sauce while cooking for extra heat.

Is Coconut Milk Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and maintains its flavor, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Can I make Coconut Milk Chicken dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free since it uses coconut milk instead of cream or dairy products.

What sides pair well with Coconut Milk Chicken?

Serve it with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce, along with stir-fried vegetables for balance.

Final Thoughts

Coconut Milk Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors that is both comforting and versatile. Whether you want to serve it for dinner or share it with friends, this recipe allows room for customization. Feel free to experiment with different spices or proteins that suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Coconut Milk Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Coconut Milk Chicken is a flavorful dish that transports your taste buds straight to Thailand. This easy recipe features tender poached chicken simmered in a rich, creamy coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying dish that will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making Coconut Milk Chicken not only delicious but also adaptable to your personal taste preferences.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 red chili, minced
• 28 ounces coconut milk (2 cans)
• 3 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced
• Soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large deep skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion in coconut oil until softened (4-5 minutes). Add garlic, ginger, and red chili; cook until fragrant (2 minutes).
2. Pour in coconut milk, brown sugar, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and red curry paste; stir until smooth.
3. Add sliced chicken to the simmering mixture and reduce heat to medium-low. Poach gently for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Remove from heat once the chicken is tender; add lime juice and garnish with cilantro before serving over rice.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Poaching
• Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg