Description
Coconut milk chicken brings together Thai-inspired flavors in a luscious one-pan meal. Rich aromatics and tender chicken create a perfect weeknight dinner for home cooks seeking global culinary adventure.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
Dairy and Liquid Base:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) coconut milk
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
- 1 medium onion
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, gently sautéing minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and finely chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Introduce chicken pieces to the pan, seasoning generously with salt, cracked black pepper, and red chili flakes, allowing the meat to develop a golden-brown exterior while ensuring even cooking on all sides.
- Stream rich, creamy coconut milk into the skillet, followed by a bright splash of zesty lime juice, reducing heat to low and allowing the mixture to gently simmer and gradually thicken, stirring occasionally.
- Continue cooking until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce develops a luxurious, velvety consistency, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to settle, creating a harmonious culinary experience.
- Transfer to serving plates, garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and accompany with steamed jasmine rice or roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing chili flakes to suit your heat tolerance.
- Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs for easier cooking and faster preparation.
- For a dairy-free and lighter version, use low-fat coconut milk and add extra herbs like cilantro or basil for depth of flavor.
- Let the chicken rest in the sauce for a few minutes after cooking to enhance its tenderness and help it absorb more flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg