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Quick and Creamy Coconut Chicken Skillet

Close-up of tender pieces of coconut chicken coated in a rich, creamy sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.

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Make this simple, flavorful coconut chicken in one skillet. Tender chicken simmers in a rich, creamy coconut milk sauce, perfect for a fast weeknight dinner served over rice.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the cut chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  6. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  7. Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
  8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
  9. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  10. Serve the creamy coconut chicken immediately over jasmine rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For a slightly sweeter flavor profile, add 1 teaspoon of brown sugar with the spices.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, uncover the skillet for the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
  • This dish pairs well with a side of steamed green beans or a simple avocado salad.

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