Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure with our One Pan Saucy Coconut Chicken! This delightful dish brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen, all in just 35 minutes. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic curry powder—it's a symphony of taste that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special. Dive in and discover how to create this mouthwatering meal that will transport you to a tropical paradise!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of curry powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side to develop color.
- Pour the entire can of coconut milk into the pan, adding the remaining curry powder. Gently stir to combine the spices with the coconut milk.
- Reduce the heat to low-medium, cover the pan, and let the chicken simmer in the coconut sauce for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the lid and let the sauce reduce for an additional 2-3 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Transfer the chicken thighs to serving plates and spoon the rich coconut sauce over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot, preferably with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Patience is Key: Make sure to let the chicken thighs sear properly before flipping them. This will ensure a crispy skin that adds texture to the dish.
- Coconut Milk Variations: For a richer flavor, consider using full-fat coconut milk. If you prefer a lighter option, light coconut milk works well too.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of chili flakes can introduce a delightful heat if you like a little kick.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Don’t skip the cilantro garnish! It adds a fresh, vibrant note that beautifully complements the rich coconut sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread to soak up the delectable sauce. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen, making the next day’s meal even more delicious!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 370kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
