Dive into a culinary adventure with our tantalizing Chicken in Cardamom Coconut Sauce! This Indian-inspired dish is a symphony of flavors, featuring tender chicken thighs enveloped in a creamy, aromatic sauce that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of India. With just 40 minutes of your time, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also impressive enough to wow your family and friends. Ready to unlock the secret to this exotic dish? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs into the hot pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, creating a nice caramelized exterior.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a clean plate. Reduce heat to medium.
- In the same pan, add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and crush the green cardamom pods, releasing their aromatic seeds. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Sprinkle turmeric powder and stir to combine, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
- Pour in the coconut milk, stirring gently to combine all ingredients and create a smooth sauce.
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. The sauce will slightly thicken during this time.
- Serve hot, spooning the cardamom coconut sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicy and flavorful result. They cook evenly and remain tender throughout the process.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! It’s essential for developing a rich, caramelized crust that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Fresh Spices Matter: For the best flavor, use fresh green cardamom pods and high-quality turmeric. Crushing the cardamom just before use will release its aromatic oils, elevating your sauce.
- Adjust the Coconut Milk: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of coconut milk or let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley before serving adds a burst of color and freshness, making your dish not only tastier but visually appealing as well.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Chicken in Cardamom Coconut Sauce over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 410kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
