Description

Creamy Coconut Milk Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken in a velvety coconut milk sauce with aromatic spices. The coconut milk provides a natural sweetness that balances the savory chicken, creating a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5-2 lbs)
1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the coconut milk sauce:

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides. Set aside.
Cook the chicken:
- Heat olive oil or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
Spice it up: Add turmeric, cumin, and chili powder (optional) and cook for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Add coconut milk and broth: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 5-7 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
Return the chicken to the pan: Place the cooked chicken back in the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
- Let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Finish with lime juice: Stir in lime juice to add a fresh acidity to the dish.
Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Serve the creamy coconut milk chicken with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a side of your choice.

Notes

Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for extra color and nutrition. Add them when you return the chicken to the skillet for additional flavor.Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs will give the dish even more richness and flavor, as they’re naturally juicier and more tender.Make it Spicy: For more heat, add fresh chopped chilies, red pepper flakes, or extra chili powder to the sauce.Dairy-Free: This recipe is already dairy-free with coconut milk, so it’s perfect for those avoiding dairy. You can also use coconut oil for extra coconut flavor.