Name: Creamy Coconut Milk Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional); 1 (14 oz) can coconut milk; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this creamy coconut milk chicken is perfect for you. Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a rich and aromatic coconut milk sauce, infused with the warmth of curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. It’s a delightful fusion of savory and slightly sweet flavors, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon curry powder

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

1 (14 oz) can coconut milk

1/2 cup chicken broth

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until the spices become fragrant.

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer for another 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

If desired, stir in lime juice for a burst of freshness.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice, quinoa, or your favorite side dish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy: If you like your dishes spicier, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a chopped fresh chili.

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.

Add Vegetables: Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas into the sauce for more texture and color.

Sweetness: For a slightly sweeter version, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, you can increase the amount of chili flakes or add a fresh chopped chili pepper when cooking the onions and garlic. If you prefer extra spice, a dash of cayenne pepper works too.

Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs would work wonderfully in this dish, adding even more flavor and moisture to the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the chicken broth and other ingredients you use do not contain gluten.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This recipe can be made ahead of time, and the flavors will continue to meld together as it sits. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before warming on the stove.

Conclusion

This creamy coconut milk chicken is a delightful combination of rich flavors and tender chicken. The spices, combined with the smooth coconut milk, create a comforting dish. It’s easy to make, adaptable to different tastes, and perfect for a weeknight meal or to impress guests. Whether I’m serving it with rice, quinoa, or just enjoying it on its own, this dish never disappoints.

Recipe: