Semur-Style Slow-Cooked Chicken with Spiced Coconut Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Inspired by Indonesian-Australian fusion, this slow-cooked chicken is simmered in a fragrant, spiced coconut sauce for tender, flavorful results. This australian-inspired chicken ready in about 75 minutes blends bone-in, skin on chicken thighs, coconut milk, large, thinly sliced onion into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 460 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves 4 Australian cuisine 460 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add 1 large thinly sliced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
  2. Step 2: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 tbsp coriander powder, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  4. Step 4: Add 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, browning them slightly on all sides for about 5 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Pour in 1 1/2 cups coconut milk, 1 cup water, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 2 tbsp brown sugar. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  6. Step 6: Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 45 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
  7. Step 7: Remove lid and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to reduce sauce to desired consistency.
  8. Step 8: Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro before serving with steamed rice or crusty bread.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Semur-Style Slow-Cooked Chicken with Spiced Coconut Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 75 minutes (15 min prep + 60 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Semur-Style Slow-Cooked Chicken with Spiced Coconut Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Semur-Style Slow-Cooked Chicken with Spiced Coconut Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Semur-Style Slow-Cooked Chicken with Spiced Coconut Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Semur-Style Slow-Cooked Chicken with Spiced Coconut Sauce?

Australian chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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