Coconut Milk Chicken

This Coconut Milk Chicken is a delightful and creamy dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table! Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-skillet meal features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich coconut honey lime sauce. With its savory blend of garlic, ginger, and sweet chili notes, this recipe is not just quick but also versatile enough for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• To Cook:
• For the Coconut Sauce:
• Optional Garnish:
• How to Make Coconut Milk Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Sauce
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Fillets
• Step 3: Season the Chicken
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Sauté Aromatics
• Step 6: Make the Sauce
• Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Coconut Milk Chicken
• Over Steamed Rice
• With Noodles
• On a Salad
• In Tacos
• As a Wrap
• With Roasted Vegetables
• How to Perfect Coconut Milk Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Coconut Milk Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Coconut Milk Chicken
• Reheating Coconut Milk Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Coconut Milk Chicken?
• Can I use other types of protein for this recipe?
• How do I make Coconut Milk Chicken spicier?
• Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
• What should I serve with Coconut Milk Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious meal with family or friends.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of coconut milk, honey, and lime creates a uniquely vibrant sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can adjust the spice level or add vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfectly Balanced: The dish marries sweetness and tanginess beautifully, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. These will make the preparation smoother and faster.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken evenly and allows for easy mixing of the sauce.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Ensures chicken fillets are of even thickness for consistent cooking and better texture.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when preparing sauces.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

To Cook:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger (or 3/4 teaspoon ground)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)

For the Coconut Sauce:

• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup Asian sweet chili sauce (e.g., Mae Ploy)
• 3–4 tablespoons honey (to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Asian chili sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

Optional Garnish:

• Sliced Fresno or jalapeño peppers
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced green onions

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How to Make Coconut Milk Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all the coconut sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Fillets

Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four fillets. Cover them with plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Pat dry with paper towels.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a shallow dish, whisk together flour and seasonings. Dredge each chicken fillet in this mixture, shaking off any excess flour.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken fillets. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate but do not wipe out the skillet.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

Lower heat to medium. If needed, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the white parts of green onions for about one minute. Add minced garlic and ginger; cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Pour in the prepared coconut sauce while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for about 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and warm through in the coconut sauce until heated completely.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with cilantro, basil, green onions, and sliced peppers if desired. Serve over rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade Coconut Milk Chicken!

How to Serve Coconut Milk Chicken

Coconut Milk Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a delightful addition to many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice will soak up the delicious coconut sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Noodles

• Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked noodles for a comforting meal. Rice noodles or egg noodles work particularly well with the creamy texture.

On a Salad

• Slice the chicken and serve it atop a fresh salad. Add ingredients like mixed greens, avocado, and nuts for a crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime juice for an exciting twist.

As a Wrap

• Use tortillas or lettuce leaves to wrap the coconut milk chicken. This makes for a light yet satisfying meal that’s easy to enjoy on the go.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the dish with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. The sweetness of the roasted veggies complements the rich flavor of the coconut milk sauce.

How to Perfect Coconut Milk Chicken

To ensure your Coconut Milk Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use full-fat coconut milk: This provides the richest flavor and best consistency for your sauce.
• Pound chicken for even cooking: Flattening the chicken breasts allows them to cook uniformly, resulting in juicy meat.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a nice golden sear on each piece of chicken.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste your sauce before serving; add more lime juice or honey depending on your preference for tanginess or sweetness.
• Let it simmer gently: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps thicken it while infusing flavors without burning.
• Garnish generously: Fresh herbs and sliced peppers not only enhance presentation but also add layers of flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Coconut Milk Chicken

Coconut Milk Chicken pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Jasmine Rice
   A fragrant rice that absorbs the coconut sauce beautifully, enhancing each bite.
2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with chopped vegetables adds texture and freshness alongside the creamy dish.
3. Sautéed Bok Choy
   This green vegetable offers a slight crunch and mild flavor that balances out the richness of the chicken.
4. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover coconut sauce on your plate.
5. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad with lime dressing cuts through the creaminess and adds brightness to your meal.
6. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli provides color and nutrients while complementing the flavors of Coconut Milk Chicken perfectly.
7. Fried Plantains
   Sweet fried plantains offer a unique contrast in texture and sweetness, making them an excellent pairing.
8. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb option, cauliflower rice is light yet satisfying when served with this creamy dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Coconut Milk Chicken, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the pounded chicken step: Failing to pound the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Use a meat mallet to ensure an even thickness for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: If you rush this step, the sauce may not have the desired creamy consistency. Allow it to simmer until it thickens slightly for a rich flavor.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can lower the skillet’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for that golden crust.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your sauce and adjust seasonings before adding the chicken back in. More lime juice or honey might be needed to balance flavors.
• Using light coconut milk: Light coconut milk may not provide enough creaminess. Stick with full-fat coconut milk for a rich sauce and add extra cornstarch if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Coconut Milk Chicken

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 3 months for quality preservation.

Reheating Coconut Milk Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20–25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until heated evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Coconut Milk Chicken?

Coconut Milk Chicken is a creamy dish made with chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful coconut sauce featuring honey, lime, and spices.

Can I use other types of protein for this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist on Coconut Milk Chicken.

How do I make Coconut Milk Chicken spicier?

To increase the heat, add more Asian chili sauce or use fresh chili peppers as a garnish when serving.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the coconut sauce up to 5 days in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What should I serve with Coconut Milk Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa, along with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Coconut Milk Chicken is not just quick to prepare; it’s also versatile and full of flavor. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

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