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Coconut Milk Chicken Recipe

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  • Author: Lidia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A creamy, comforting one-pan chicken dish simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce with onion, garlic, ginger, and warm spices. It is easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect served over rice.


Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the paprika, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the aromatics.
  4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and brown lightly for about 3 minutes per side.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 15 to 18 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  7. If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  8. Finish with lime juice and fresh cilantro, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Serve over steamed rice, jasmine rice, or with warm flatbread to soak up the sauce.
  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier result.
  • Add bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra color and heartiness.
  • For more heat, add chili flakes or chopped fresh chili with the garlic and ginger.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
  • The sauce can be thickened naturally by simmering a few extra minutes if you prefer not to use cornstarch.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 41g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg