Name: Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken: 30-Minute Flavor Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 tablespoons red curry paste; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

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Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken is a quick and easy recipe that delivers rich flavors in just 30 minutes. This delightful dish features succulent chicken meatballs infused with the tropical sweetness of coconut milk and the spicy undertones of red curry paste. Perfect for busy weeknights, it transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful meal that everyone in the family will love. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that promises both taste and convenience!

Why You’ll Love This Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken

This weeknight chicken curry is not just about comfort; it’s also about speed and satisfaction. Here’s why you’ll adore making it:

Quick preparation, allowing you to serve dinner in only 30 minutes.
Uses simple and healthy ingredients, making it a healthy weeknight chicken curry.
Family-friendly and appealing to both kids and adults.
Versatile—easily adapted with different vegetables or proteins.
Rich in flavor, thanks to coconut milk and red curry paste.
Perfect for meal prep, ensuring delicious leftovers for lunch.

Ingredients for Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken

Gather these items:

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 tablespoons red curry paste
1 tablespoon lime juice
Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

How to Make Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cilantro, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in size, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Step 5: While the meatballs are baking, get a skillet and add the coconut milk and red curry paste. Stir until well combined over medium heat.
Step 6: Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the lime juice for a fresh tang.
Step 7: Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the coconut curry sauce. Gently toss to ensure the meatballs are well coated in the sauce.
Step 8: Remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken

Keep these in mind:

For added flavor, consider incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas into the curry.
Using fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Best Ways to Serve Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken

Here are some tasty serving suggestions:

Serve over steamed rice for a traditional meal.
Pair with quinoa for a nutritious twist.
Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.

How to Store and Reheat Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. This dish is also excellent for coconut curry chicken meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken

What is weeknight coconut curry chicken?

It’s a quick and easy dish featuring ground chicken meatballs simmered in a rich coconut curry sauce, perfect for busy evenings.

Can I make weeknight coconut curry chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook the curry sauce fresh when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with weeknight coconut curry chicken?

Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking, and don’t skip simmering the sauce to develop its flavors fully.

Variations of Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken You Can Try

Add your own touch with these variations:

Incorporate vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a coconut curry chicken with vegetables.
Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein.
Experiment with different types of curry paste to adjust the spice level.

For more delicious recipes, check out our healthy weeknight chicken curry or learn how to make coconut milk from scratch. You can also explore meal prep ideas that pair well with this dish.

Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken: 30-Minute Flavor Bliss - Weeknight Coconut Curry Chicken - additional detail

For more tips on cooking with coconut milk, visit Healthline for a comprehensive guide.