A delicious and comforting dish, this Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights!
Introduction
Hey, fellow food lover! If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet mouthwatering one-pan meal, look no further than this Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with the creamy goodness of coconut milk, resulting in a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. It’s perfect for families, busy weeknight dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort!
A Bit About the Recipe
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and robust flavors. The rich coconut milk pairs beautifully with the succulent chicken, making each bite a taste of paradise. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pan, which means less cleanup for you—an added bonus! Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, you’ll find success with this easy-going recipe.
Ingredients for Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe – Easy One-Pan Meal:
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 1 pound (1-inch to 1½-inch thick)
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Smoked or sweet paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper: ½ teaspoon (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon (or to taste)
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (divided)
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Diced tomatoes: 2 cups (or 1 can, 14 ounces, diced tomatoes, drained)
- Canned unsweetened lite coconut milk: 14 ounces
- Fresh cilantro: chopped, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream instead of regular cream.
- Swap cayenne for chili powder if you want a milder heat.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure all spices are free from cross-contamination.
How to Make Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe – Easy One-Pan Meal – Step by Step:
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until browned and almost cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet, then add the diced onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut Sauce
Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 4-5 more minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the dish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips for Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe – Easy One-Pan Meal:
- Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste preference. Add more spices for a bolder flavor if desired.
- For added depth, consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions for Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe – Easy One-Pan Meal:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the creamy coconut sauce. Consider serving a light salad or grilled vegetables on the side for a well-rounded meal!
Storage and Leftovers for Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe – Easy One-Pan Meal:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe – Easy One-Pan Meal:
1. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Just place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide even more flavor and tenderness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The cayenne pepper is optional, so feel free to leave it out for a milder dish!
Conclusion
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into this fabulous Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious home-cooked meal. Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you made to the recipe. Happy cooking!