
This tender coconut marinated chicken is infused with zesty lime, aromatic curry, and a hint of spice for a tropical flavor explosion. Whether grilled or pan-seared, the reduced marinade creates a rich, velvety sauce that takes this easy weeknight dinner to the next level.
Prepare the marinade: In a large ziplock bag or mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, curry powder, paprika, ginger, garlic, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.
Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thigh fillets to the bag, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight for the best flavor.
Prep for cooking: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Reserve the leftover marinade in the bag/bowl to make the sauce later.
Heat the grill or pan: Lightly oil your grill grates and heat to medium-high, or heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken: Sear the chicken for about 7 minutes on the first side. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
Rest the meat: Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate. Cover loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
Prepare the sauce: While the chicken rests, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan over medium heat.
Simmer and thicken: Stir in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Boiling for 10 minutes is essential for food safety.
Serve: Drizzle the warm coconut sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve alongside steamed rice or grilled vegetables.
For a spicier kick, use a hotter chili sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. If using chicken breasts instead of thighs, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out. Always ensure the sauce is boiled thoroughly since it was in contact with raw meat.
