Coconut Chicken

why make this recipe

Coconut Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with rich coconut milk, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings unique tropical flavors right to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and everyone will love the creamy coconut sauce that pairs perfectly with rice or plantains.

how to make Coconut Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 and 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil (or achiote oil, if using achiote oil skip the ground achiote later)
• 1 lb (450 g) skinless chicken
• 1 tsp ground paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp ground coriander
• 1/4 tsp achiote/annatto powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 medium yellow onion (minced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tomato (half of a large tomato or a whole medium or small tomato, minced)
• 1/2 tsp ground paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp ground coriander
• 1/4 tsp achiote/annatto powder (optional, skip this if using achiote oil)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp tomato sauce or ketchup (or tomato paste but use half the amount if using tomato paste)
• 1/4 cup (25 g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 can (450 ml) unsweetened canned coconut milk (room temperature)
• Salt and pepper (if needed, to taste)
• 2 bay leaves (dried or fresh)
• Cilantro (optional, chopped, to taste, for topping)

Directions:

1. Cook the chicken. Add the oil to a skillet over medium heat. While the oil heats, season the chicken with the paprika, cumin, coriander, achiote (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden, about 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook until golden again, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the coconut sauce. In the same skillet over medium heat, add an extra splash of oil, the onion, garlic, and tomato. Season with paprika, cumin, coriander, achiote (if using), salt, and pepper. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the tomato sauce or ketchup and stir, cooking for about 1 minute. Add the shredded coconut, stirring and sautéing until fragrant, about 2-4 minutes. Lower the heat to medium-low, pour in the coconut milk, and mix. Add the chicken back, making sure it’s evenly coated with the sauce. Finally, add the bay leaves and simmer over low-medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Taste and adjust spices if necessary.
3. Serve. Top with chopped cilantro if desired and serve warm with rice, patacones (fried green plantains), or avocado.

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how to serve Coconut Chicken

Coconut Chicken is best served warm. You can pair it with a side of fluffy white rice, crispy patacones, or fresh avocado slices. The creamy coconut sauce makes each bite delightful, and the dish is visually appealing with a sprinkle of cilantro on top.

how to store Coconut Chicken

To store leftover Coconut Chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Coconut Chicken

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours with the spices before cooking.
• Adjust the spices according to taste. You can add more paprika or even a little chili powder if you like it spicy.
• Make sure to use unsweetened coconut milk for the best flavor.

variation

You can switch up the recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to the coconut sauce for added nutrition and texture. You can also substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different protein options.

FAQs

Can I use chicken with skin for this recipe? Yes, you can use chicken with skin, but it may affect the cooking time and texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free as it uses coconut milk instead of cream or milk.

How can I make the sauce thicker? To thicken the sauce, let it simmer for a longer time or add a little cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce and stir until it thickens.