This Easy Creamy Coconut Chicken is a cozy meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen! The chicken is cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, combining sweet and savory flavors.
What I love most is how simple it is. Just toss everything in the pot, let it simmer, and you’re ready to enjoy a tasty dish that feels fancy without the fuss. Perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs give richness and flavor. If you’re looking for lighter options, boneless skinless chicken breasts also work well, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Coconut Milk: Canned coconut milk is key for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, use coconut cream or a low-fat version, but it might alter the flavor slightly. Almond milk can also be used, though it won’t be as rich.
Fish Sauce: This adds a depth of flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, soy sauce or tamari is a great substitute. You can even skip it altogether and add a sprinkle of salt instead.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro and basil can enhance freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works fine. For the basil, consider using dried basil if fresh isn’t available, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Browning the Chicken Perfectly?
Browning your chicken well is crucial for building flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps the chicken get that nice golden crust.
- After placing the chicken skin-side down, resist the urge to move it around. Let it sear for about 5-7 minutes to develop a good crust.
- Flip the chicken carefully so it retains the crispy skin. Finish browning the other side for another 5 minutes.
By properly browning the chicken, you’ll heap more flavor into your creamy coconut sauce later on!
Easy Creamy Coconut Chicken
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 red chili pepper, sliced (optional for heat)
- 1 cup canned coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon curry powder or turmeric (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish for this delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor to the meat and helps create a tasty crust when cooked.
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Brown them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for another 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sliced chili pepper if you like a bit of heat. Sauté these ingredients together until they are fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring everything together to combine the flavors. Add the lime juice, fish sauce, and curry powder if you’re using it, mixing well.
5. Simmer the Chicken:
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them skin-side up and spooning some of the sauce over the top. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and soak up all those delicious flavors.
6. Adjust the Sauce:
After 20-25 minutes, remove the lid. If the sauce needs to thicken up a bit, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
7. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro, basil, and green onions over the dish to add freshness and color. This step brings everything together!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your creamy coconut chicken while it’s hot! It pairs perfectly with steamed rice or your favorite side dish. Enjoy this tasty dish with family or friends!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful coconut chicken!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Coconut Chicken
Can I Substitute the Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as a substitute. Just be aware that they may cook faster, so check for doneness at around 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
This recipe is already dairy-free since it uses coconut milk! Just ensure that any optional ingredients like sauces are also dairy-free.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This creamy coconut chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce!
