Creamy Coconut Kale Chicken: A Weeknight Delight
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that doesn't skimp on flavor? Look no further! This Creamy Coconut Kale Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Imagine tender, golden chicken pieces swimming in a luscious, creamy coconut sauce, infused with the subtle heat of curry and the earthy goodness of kale. This dish isn't just a meal; it's an experience that will leave you craving more.
A Fusion of Flavors
This recipe beautifully marries the comforting flavors of a creamy curry with the ease of a one-pan dish. It's like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those evenings when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The coconut kale sauce, the star of the show, comes together with minimal ingredients, yet delivers a flavor explosion that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Ingredients: You'll need just a handful of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry.
- All-in-One Meal: It includes protein, veggies, and a flavorful sauce, making it a complete and balanced meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu, and use spinach or bell peppers instead of kale.
Ingredients You'll Need:
Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2-3 tbsp chicken seasoning (I use a rotisserie seasoning)
- 1 1/2 tbsp avocado oil, divided
Coconut Kale:
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- 2-3 cups finely shredded curly kale, stems removed
- 1 tbsp yellow curry paste (red curry paste is a good substitute)
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Optional, for serving:
- Cooked rice
- Chili crisp or cilantro, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the sliced chicken with your favorite chicken seasoning. Heat 1 tbsp of avocado oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan (if there is a lot of browned bits, wipe the pan out) add the remaining 1/2 tbsp of avocado oil, shallots and kale, cook until fragrant and tender, about 5 minutes. Add the curry paste and cook for a minute to release more flavor.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Gently return the chicken to the pan, and allow it to bubble gently and spoon the sauce over the chicken. Garnish with cilantro and serve over rice. Top with chili crisp if desired.
Tips and Substitutions:
- Spice it up: If you like a bit more heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Other Veggies: Don't have kale? Use spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms instead.
- Curry paste: If you are using a mainstream brand of curry paste like Thai Kitchen, use 2 tablespoons instead of 1 to make sure it has enough flavor
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use red curry paste instead of yellow?
Yes, red curry paste works great as a substitute, but the color will be different. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed
Can I use light coconut milk?
Light coconut milk can be used, but the sauce won't thicken as much. To thicken it, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water).
What can I serve with this dish?
This recipe is delicious served over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with fresh cilantro, chili crisp, or a squeeze of lime to add an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy!
This Creamy Coconut Kale Chicken is not only incredibly flavorful but also a flexible dish that you can easily adjust to your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!