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Coconut Curry Chicken with Green Beans – A Creamy and Protein Packed Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on January 2, 2025 by Arif Chowdhury

If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine while keeping things healthy, you’re in for a treat! Imagine succulent chicken breasts bathed in a rich, creamy coconut curry sauce, perfectly complemented by crisp green beans.

This Coconut Curry Chicken with Green Beans recipe is a deliciously satisfying dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fits seamlessly into a weight-loss plan.

Whether you’re a curry connoisseur or a curious newbie, this meal is sure to impress and nourish. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The Benefits of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a star ingredient in this dish. While it’s creamy and rich, it also offers several health benefits. One cup of coconut milk contains about 5 grams of fiber, which can aid digestion and help keep you feeling full.

Additionally, coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known to boost metabolism. In fact, studies suggest that MCTs can increase calorie burning by up to 12% compared to long-chain fatty acids.

Chicken: A Lean Protein Powerhouse

Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.

According to the USDA, a 3.5-ounce serving of cooked chicken breast contains about 31 grams of protein and only 165 calories. High-protein diets can help reduce appetite and promote fat loss.

Plus, pairing chicken with nutritious vegetables like green beans enhances the nutrient profile of your meal.

Green Beans: A Nutrient-Rich Vegetable

Green beans are not just crunchy and delicious; they’re also packed with vitamins and minerals. A cup of cooked green beans provides around 4 grams of fiber, as well as vitamins A, C, and K.

Interestingly, the CDC reports that only about 1 in 10 adults get the recommended daily intake of vegetables, making this dish a great way to boost your veggie consumption!

Ingredients You Will Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Coconut Curry Chicken with Green Beans:

For the Coconut Curry Chicken:

  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat or light, based on preference)
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste (adjust for spice level)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

For the Green Beans:

  • 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Time Overview

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time for Chicken: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time for Green Beans: 5-7 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Cook the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Coconut Curry Sauce

  • Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Add the Curry Paste: Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  • Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Season and Combine: Add the soy sauce and lime juice, mixing well. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and let it simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Green Beans

  • Blanch the Green Beans: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch for about 3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process.
  • Sauté the Green Beans: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the blanched green beans, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Plate the Dish: On a serving plate, arrange a portion of the sautéed green beans.
  • Add the Coconut Curry Chicken: Spoon the coconut curry chicken over the green beans.
  • Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Enjoy: Dig in and savor the creamy, flavorful goodness of this dish!

Nutritional Breakdown

This Coconut Curry Chicken with Green Beans is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 5g

Why It Works for Weight Loss

This meal is lower in calories while being high in protein and fiber, making it an excellent option for weight loss.

The protein from chicken helps keep you feeling full, while the fiber from green beans aids digestion and promotes satiety. Plus, the healthy fats from coconut milk can help you feel satisfied without overindulging.

Tips for Success

  • Customize Your Spice Level: If you love heat, feel free to add more red curry paste or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you prefer a milder dish, start with less and adjust to taste.
  • Make it a Meal Prep Delight: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Make a large batch and store it in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
  • Pair with Whole Grains: For a more filling meal, serve the curry over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Conclusion

Healthy eating can be a flavorful journey, and Coconut Curry Chicken with Green Beans is a wonderful stop on that path.

With its creamy coconut sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant green beans, this dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a great ally in your weight-loss journey.

So, whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table. Give it a try, and let the deliciousness unfold!