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A close-up shot of the creamy coconut chicken simmering in a skillet, showcasing the rich texture of the coconut milk sauce and tender chicken pieces.

Coconut Chicken Recipe: A Creamy 30-Minute Dinner

This Coconut Chicken Recipe is the ultimate 30-minute meal! Tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy coconut milk sauce with gentle spices. A simple, flavorful, and unforgettable weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Thai
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk from a can, unsweetened
  • 0.25 cup chicken broth low-sodium
  • 1.5 tsp mild curry powder
  • 0.5 tsp turmeric
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for a little heat
  • 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Knife

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices.
  4. Pour in the can of full-fat coconut milk and the chicken broth. Use a spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  5. Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the creamiest sauce, make sure to use full-fat, canned coconut milk.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper to your liking.
Serve over jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.