The rich aroma of Coconut Milk Chicken wafts through the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that sparks memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Imagine tender chicken simmering in creamy coconut milk, infused with fragrant spices that dance on your palate. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes for coconut milk recipe.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Coconut Milk Chicken</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?
- How spicy is this coconut milk chicken recipe?
- What sides pair well with coconut milk chicken?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal. With its mouthwatering flavors and comforting textures, Coconut Milk Chicken promises to be a culinary adventure you won’t forget.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Coconut Milk Chicken recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The creamy sauce is bursting with flavor, elevating simple chicken to gourmet status
- Its vibrant colors and enticing aromas will have everyone at the table eager to dig in
- Perfect for family meals but versatile enough for entertaining guests
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their faces lit up as they took their first bites, and the compliments just kept coming!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a luscious texture that’s truly comforting.
Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for an aromatic kick that brightens the dish beautifully.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; aim for at least three cloves to pack a flavorful punch.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth helps balance flavors without overpowering them.
Spices (Curry Powder, Turmeric): These spices contribute warmth and color; don’t skimp on them!
Vegetables (Bell Peppers, Spinach): Add bell peppers and spinach for color and nutrition—plus they soak up all that creamy goodness.
Fresh Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice brightens everything up at the end—trust me on this one!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Coconut Milk Chicken
Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant and golden.
Add the Chicken: Toss in your boneless chicken breasts, cooking them until they turn golden brown on both sides—about 5-6 minutes per side should do it.
Pour in Coconut Milk: Once browned, pour in the rich coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
Season and Spice It Up: Stir in your curry powder and turmeric next. Let those spices mingle and create a heavenly aroma as they infuse into the sauce.
Add Vegetables and Simmer: Toss in sliced bell peppers and fresh spinach. Allow them to wilt into the sauce over low heat for about 10 minutes.
Finish with Lime Juice: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over your Coconut Milk Chicken. This final touch adds brightness that’s absolutely irresistible!
Now you have Coconut Milk Chicken ready to steal the spotlight at dinner! Enjoy this delightful dish with rice or naan to soak up every bit of that luxurious sauce.
You Must Know
- Coconut milk chicken is creamy and comforting, perfect for weeknight dinners
- The tropical flavors transport you to a beachside paradise
- Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with rice or noodles, making it a family favorite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in coconut milk and spices for at least an hour. Sear the chicken until golden before adding veggies and simmering gently to create a rich sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different spices like ginger or turmeric to enhance the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on medium heat in a pan, adding a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum flavor, sear your chicken well before adding liquids
- Always taste and adjust seasonings; every coconut milk brand varies in richness
- If you want extra creaminess, add more coconut milk towards the end of cooking
Memories of my friends devouring this dish with gleeful abandon still make me smile; they even asked for seconds!
FAQ
Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?
Yes, but the dish will be less creamy and flavorful.
How spicy is this coconut milk chicken recipe?
The spice level depends on your choice of peppers; adjust to suit your taste.
What sides pair well with coconut milk chicken?
Rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Coconut Milk Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Coconut Milk Chicken is a creamy, aromatic dish that transforms tender chicken into a gourmet delight. Infused with fresh ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices, this recipe promises rich flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, serve it alongside rice or naan to soak up the luscious sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté until fragrant.
- Add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides (5-6 minutes per side).
- Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in curry powder and turmeric; let simmer for a few minutes.
- Add sliced bell peppers and spinach; cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg