Creamy Coconut Milk Chicken

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There’s something magical about the way coconut milk wraps itself around tender, golden-brown chicken—creating a velvety, rich sauce that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This Creamy Coconut Milk Chicken is a one-pan wonder, infused with garlic, lime, cilantro, and a touch of spice for the perfect flavor balance. It’s hearty, yet light, and luxurious without being fussy.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers every single time. It comes together quickly, making it an ideal go-to when you need something flavorful, satisfying, and refreshingly different from your usual chicken recipes.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this creamy creation, take a moment to gather the right tools—they’ll make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Essential for searing the chicken and simmering the sauce evenly. A heavy-bottomed skillet retains heat and prevents scorching.
• Tongs: Helpful for flipping and moving the chicken without piercing it, preserving the juices.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the coconut sauce to avoid scratching your pan.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure balanced flavors, especially with bold ingredients like garlic and lime.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For prepping your aromatics and garnishes quickly and safely.

With these tools at your side, you’ll create a dish that’s as effortless to cook as it is impressive to serve.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Coconut Milk Chicken

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing depth and comfort to this dish:

• Bone-in Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Juicy, flavorful cuts that stay tender in the sauce.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Basic seasoning to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
• Garlic Cloves – Adds pungency and richness to the sauce.
• Onion – Caramelizes and builds the flavor base.
• Fresh Ginger – Offers warmth and a subtle spice that complements the coconut milk.
• Coconut Milk (full-fat) – The creamy backbone of the dish; adds a tropical, velvety richness.
• Fresh Lime Juice – Brightens the sauce and balances the creaminess.
• Bell Peppers – Add color and slight sweetness.
• Cilantro – For a fresh, herbaceous finish.
• Olive Oil – Used to sear the chicken and sauté the aromatics.

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How To Make the Creamy Coconut Milk Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft, then stir in minced garlic and ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to deglaze the pan and combine flavors. Add lime juice and bell peppers. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Return Chicken and Simmer

Nestle the chicken back into the sauce. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime before serving.

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How to Serve and Store This Coconut Milk Chicken

This dish is best served warm, spooned generously over jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious coconut gravy. You can also pair it with flatbreads like naan or roti for a hands-on, cozy experience.

To store leftovers, allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely, then transfer them into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce thickens too much.

For longer storage, this dish also freezes beautifully. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs or breasts work well. Just reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster than bone-in cuts.

Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, try using heavy cream or cashew cream, but note that the flavor profile will change.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild as written, but you can add red chili flakes or sliced chili peppers to bring up the heat.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely. Replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and ensure your oil and coconut milk are plant-based.

What vegetables can I add?

Spinach, zucchini, or snap peas are great additions. Add them toward the end so they stay vibrant and crisp.

Will light coconut milk work?

Light coconut milk will work in a pinch, but the sauce will be thinner and less creamy. Full-fat is recommended for richness.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this creamy coconut milk chicken, you’ll definitely want to try these flavorful chicken recipes from the blog:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken with crispy crust and buttery flavor.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for hands-off, slow-cooked comfort.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet if you love rich and savory skillet meals.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that layers creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for pasta lovers who crave decadence.

You can also follow along with my daily recipe shares and meal inspiration over on my Pinterest at Life With Olivia.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add some chili heat? Maybe stirred in extra lime juice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter, not harder!

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