Delicious Coconut Cream Chicken Recipes: Easy Weeknight Dinners

Coconut cream is a versatile ingredient that adds richness and flavor to many dishes, especially chicken recipes. If you're looking for quick and tasty meals that incorporate coconut cream, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll explore a couple of delectable coconut cream chicken recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.

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Why Use Coconut Cream in Chicken Recipes?

Coconut cream offers a creamy texture and a subtly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken. It enhances the dish's overall richness, making it a favorite in various cuisines, from Thai to Indian. Additionally, coconut cream is dairy-free, making it an excellent alternative for those with lactose intolerance.

Benefits of Coconut Cream

Rich Flavor: Adds a creamy, tropical taste to dishes.

Dairy-Free Option: Perfect for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Versatile: Works well in both savory and sweet recipes.

Creamy Coconut Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 can (14 oz) of coconut cream

2 tablespoons of curry powder

1 tablespoon of tomato paste

1.5 tablespoons of minced garlic

1 large onion, sliced

10-15 mushrooms, sliced

0.5 tablespoon of turmeric

0.5 tablespoon of garam masala

Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, turmeric, and curry powder.

Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken skin-side down and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, tomato paste, and garam masala, stirring well.

Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the coconut cream, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Cover and let it simmer on medium heat for about 10 minutes.

Serve: Enjoy your creamy coconut chicken over steamed rice or with naan bread for a complete meal.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prepping, as it tastes even better the next day!

Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon coconut oil

1 medium onion, diced

5 cloves garlic, minced

1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth

¼ cup fresh lime juice

1 can (15 oz) of coconut cream

Salt, pepper, and red chili flakes to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Sear the Chicken: Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onions and sauté until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, lime juice, and stir well. Bring to a simmer for 5-10 minutes. Then, add the coconut cream and return the chicken to the skillet.

Finish Cooking: Cover and cook until the chicken is fully cooked, about 5 more minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes.

Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or zoodles for a low-carb option.

This coconut lime chicken is a vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of coconut with the tanginess of lime, making it a family favorite!

Conclusion

Coconut cream is a fantastic ingredient that can elevate your chicken dishes to new heights. Whether you choose the creamy coconut chicken or the zesty coconut lime chicken, both recipes are quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these dishes will surely become staples in your kitchen. So grab some coconut cream and get cooking!

FAQs about Coconut Cream Chicken Recipes

1. What are the benefits of using coconut cream in chicken recipes?
Coconut cream adds a rich flavor and creamy texture to chicken dishes. It is dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance, and it can enhance both savory and sweet recipes.

2. Can you provide a simple recipe for creamy coconut chicken?
Yes! For creamy coconut chicken, season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, turmeric, and curry powder. Sear in olive oil, sauté onions and mushrooms, then combine with coconut cream and simmer. Serve over rice or naan for a delicious meal.

3. How do I make coconut lime chicken?
To make coconut lime chicken, season and sear boneless chicken breasts in coconut oil. Sauté onions and garlic, then add chicken broth, lime juice, and coconut cream. Cook until the chicken is done and serve over rice or zoodles.

4. Are these coconut cream chicken recipes suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Both the creamy coconut chicken and coconut lime chicken recipes are great for meal prep. They can be made ahead of time and often taste even better the next day.

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