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Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe - Easy One-Pan Meal

Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts Recipe – Easy One-Pan Meal


Description

Welcome, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to introduce you to an incredible dish: Coconut Milk Chicken Breasts. Imagine tender, succulent chicken simmered in a rich, creamy coconut milk sauce. This one-pan dish is quick, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re a fan of tropical flavors or just love a hearty meal, this dish is for you.


Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1-inch to 1½-inch thick
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes (or 1 can, 14 ounces, diced tomatoes, drained)
  • 14 ounces canned unsweetened lite coconut milk
  • Chopped fresh cilantro, 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.

Instructions

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.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and tomatoes will enhance the flavor of the dish.
  • For a Thicker Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few extra minutes or add a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water.
  • Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.