Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 lbs diced chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or dried herbs
Sauce and Aromatics
- 1/2 onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (or up to 1 tablespoon for extra gingery flavor)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/4 cup canned light coconut milk (from 1 can)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
To Serve
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice or basmati rice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Additional coconut milk for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine diced chicken breast with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Toss to coat evenly.
- Brown the chicken: Preheat a large skillet over high heat and spray with cooking oil. Add the chicken in an even layer and cook for 3-5 minutes until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium, spray the skillet with more oil, then add minced onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for about 1 minute.
- Add sauce ingredients: Stir in tomato paste, coconut milk, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the browned chicken along with any juices to the skillet. Cook on medium heat for 3-4 minutes until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken and coconut sauce over cooked jasmine or basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and drizzle extra coconut milk on top if desired.
Notes
- Adjust ginger quantity according to your taste preference; more grated ginger adds a stronger zing.
- Use light coconut milk for a lighter sauce; full-fat coconut milk will make it richer.
- Can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a milder flavor.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion, with tropical coconut flavors and classic spices