Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary flavor adventure? This Coconut Chicken with East African Flavors is not just a recipe—it's a passport to a world of aromatic spices, creamy coconut, and tender chicken that will make your kitchen feel like a vibrant African marketplace. Prepare to be amazed by how just a few simple ingredients can create a dish so rich, so complex, and so irresistibly delicious that your family will be begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, curry powder, turmeric, and cumin on both sides.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the coconut milk, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Stir to combine the onions, garlic, and ginger with the coconut milk.
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the coconut milk sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the lid and let the sauce reduce for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. Recommend serving over steamed rice or with warm flatbread to soak up the delicious coconut sauce.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear that locks in flavor.
- Use fresh spices if possible—they make a world of difference in depth of flavor.
- Don't rush the searing process; letting the chicken develop a nice brown crust adds incredible complexity to the dish.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For an extra flavor boost, toast your whole spices before grinding them.
- If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Fresh cilantro is key—it adds a bright, fresh note that complements the rich, creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 140mg
