Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 lbs diced chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or dried herbs
Aromatics and Sauce
- 1/2 onion, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (or up to 1 tablespoon for extra ginger flavor)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/4 cups canned light coconut milk (about 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
- Extra coconut milk, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the diced chicken breast with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, smoked paprika, and dried oregano or herbs. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning.
- Brown the Chicken: Preheat a large skillet over high heat and spray or lightly oil the surface. Add the seasoned chicken in an even layer and sear for 3-5 minutes until browned on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium and spray the skillet with more oil. Add the minced onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Prepare the Sauce: Allow the broth to simmer for about 1 minute, then stir in the tomato paste, coconut milk, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the browned chicken along with any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce and cook on medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is well combined.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken and coconut sauce over cooked jasmine or basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and drizzle with additional coconut milk if desired for extra creaminess. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of fresh ginger to your taste for more or less spice.
- Use light coconut milk for a less rich sauce, or full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your chicken broth and tomato paste contain no gluten additives.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies when cooking the aromatics.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion, Caribbean-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free