One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals

This One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices, creating a tropical twist that's both comforting and satisfying. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Serve it over rice or with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-28T08:50:09.818Z

This dish brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. With just one pan, you can create a delightful meal that not only satisfies hunger but also pleases the palate.

A Tropical Escape in Every Bite

Imagine a dish that transports you to a tropical paradise with its rich flavors and creamy texture. This One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken does just that. The luscious coconut milk envelops juicy chicken thighs, allowing each bite to burst with flavor. The aromatic spices like ginger and curry powder not only enhance the taste but also provide a warm, comforting essence, making it an ideal meal for any time of the year.

Not only is this dish satisfying to the palate, but it also offers a delightful visual appeal. The vibrant colors and silky coconut sauce create a feast for the eyes too. Pair it with bright green vegetables or fluffy white rice, and you have a complete meal that's not just delicious but also looks stunning on your dinner table.

Effortless Cooking and Cleanup

When life gets busy, the last thing you want to worry about is a complicated cooking process or a sink full of dishes. This One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken is designed for ease and convenience. With everything cooked in a single pan, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Simply sauté the aromatics, brown the chicken, and let the coconut milk do the rest.

Moreover, this recipe allows for flexibility in your schedule. You can prepare the ingredients earlier in the day or even the night before, making the cooking process even swifter. It’s a fantastic option for weeknight dinners when you want a homemade touch without sacrificing time.

Customizable for Every Palate

One of the best aspects of this One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken is its versatility. While the original recipe is delicious as is, feel free to make it your own. Add in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost the nutritional content and flavor of the dish. You can even adjust the spice levels according to your preference; if you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.

Additionally, this dish caters to various dietary needs. You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option without compromising on taste. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for families with diverse tastes and dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the pan and brown on both sides. Season with salt, pepper, and curry powder.

Add the Coconut Milk

Pour in the coconut milk, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Simmer and Serve

Cover the pan and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve your dish with rice or vegetables for a wholesome meal!

Serving Suggestions

To truly savor the flavors of this One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken, serve it with a side of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. The rice perfectly absorbs the creamy coconut sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. You can also opt for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative, making the dish even more nutritious.

For a refreshing contrast, consider pairing this dish with a simple cucumber salad or steamed green vegetables. The crunch and freshness will balance the richness of the coconut milk, creating a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and healthy.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you're in luck! This One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it a perfect option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

When it comes to reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to maintain its creamy texture. You can also use a microwave for convenience. Just cover it with a microwave-safe lid and heat until warm, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs will give a more tender result.

One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken

This One-Pan Coconut Milk Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices, creating a tropical twist that's both comforting and satisfying. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Serve it over rice or with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Family Comfort Meals

Skill Level: easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 4 chicken thighs
  2. 1 can coconut milk
  3. 1 medium onion, chopped
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  6. 1 tablespoon curry powder
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Fresh cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Step 02

Add the chicken thighs to the pan and brown on both sides. Season with salt, pepper, and curry powder.

Step 03

Pour in the coconut milk, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 04

Cover the pan and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 25g