Irresistible Coconut Milk Chicken Recipe for Tropical Flavor

Coconut Milk Chicken is a dish that bursts with tropical vibes and creamy goodness, transporting your taste buds to a sun-soaked island. Imagine tender chicken simmered in luscious coconut milk, mingling with fragrant spices and herbs. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

this …

This dish holds a special place in my heart; I remember the first time my friend brought it to our potluck dinner. We were greeted with gasps of delight as everyone dove into the creamy coconuty goodness, leaving no leftovers behind. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings where you want to impress without needing a culinary degree.

I still chuckle when I think about that night—everyone raving about the dish while I feigned modesty, secretly relishing the compliments.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You’ll need about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.

• Coconut Milk: Look for full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor; light versions just won’t do!

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they pack a punch of flavor and aroma.

• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and spice; grate it finely for maximum infusion.

• Bell Peppers: Use colorful bell peppers for sweetness and visual appeal; they brighten up the dish.

• Onion: A sweet onion works wonders here; sauté until translucent for depth of flavor.

• Spices (Cumin & Coriander): These spices create a fragrant base; toast them lightly to enhance their aromas.

• Fresh Cilantro or Basil: Use fresh herbs as a garnish; they add freshness and color at the end.

• Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice brightens up the dish; don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Coconut Milk Chicken

Start by prepping your ingredients: Gather everything you’ll need so the cooking process flows smoothly. Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Sautéing Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Toss in diced onions and cook until they become translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until aromatic—about one minute should do it.

Cooking Chicken Pieces: Next, add your chicken pieces to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides—roughly 5-7 minutes should suffice! Enjoy watching those beautiful golden bits form.

Add Coconut Milk & Spices: Pour in the coconut milk along with cumin and coriander. Stir well to combine everything while letting that glorious aroma fill your kitchen. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Veggies & Simmer: Toss in chopped bell peppers and let everything simmer together for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and veggies soften without losing their crunch.

Finish With Fresh Ingredients: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over your creation and sprinkle chopped cilantro or basil on top. This adds a vibrant pop of flavor that elevates every bite!

And there you have it! Coconut Milk Chicken that’s not only delicious but also brings joy to both cooks and eaters alike. So grab some rice or noodles, plate up this beauty, and prepare for compliments all around!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to absorb flavors, then sear it for that delightful golden crust before simmering in coconut milk.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or swap the chicken for tofu for a delightful vegetarian option.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the chicken tender.

Sharing this recipe with friends always brings smiles and compliments; they love how the coconut adds a unique twist that surprises everyone.

FAQ

Can I use canned coconut milk for Coconut Milk Chicken?

Absolutely! Canned coconut milk works perfectly and is easy to find in stores.

What spices go well with Coconut Milk Chicken?

Common spices include garlic, ginger, curry powder, and turmeric for enhanced flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Coconut Milk Chicken stores well and tastes great even after reheating.

Print

Coconut Milk Chicken

---

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Coconut Milk Chicken is a delightful dish that transports you to a tropical paradise with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. Tender chicken simmers in rich coconut milk, enhanced by aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

---

Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients: chop chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes).
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir in cumin and coriander. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add chopped bell peppers and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Just before serving, squeeze lime juice over the dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or add other vegetables like spinach.