Editorial sample recipeSamoanbeginnerhalaldairy-freegluten-free

Samoan Coconut Papaya Glazed Chicken Thighs

Name: Samoan Coconut Papaya Glazed Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Samoan
Ingredients: 1.5 lb halal chicken thighs, boneless skinless; 1 cup ripe papaya puree, fresh blended papaya; 0.5 cup full-fat coconut milk; 2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp coconut oil; 0.5 tsp red chili flakes; 2 stalks scallions, finely chopped; 1 tsp fine sea salt

Juicy seared chicken thighs simmered in a vibrant Samoan-inspired sauce made of fresh ripe papaya puree, creamy coconut milk, lime, and chili.

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 25 min
Total: 40 min

Technique to learn

Pan Glazing

Cooking meat in pan reduction sauces so the sugars concentrate into an adherent glossy coating.

Instructions

Step 1: Pat halal chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season with fine sea salt and garlic powder.
Step 2: Heat coconut oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat until shimmered.
Step 3: Add chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 4: In a medium bowl, whisk together ripe papaya puree, full-fat coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and red chili flakes.

Step 5: Pour the papaya coconut glaze around chicken thighs in the skillet.

Step 6: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, spooning glaze over chicken regularly until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).

Step 7: Garnish with finely chopped scallions and serve warm over steamed rice.

Cooking tips

Choose fully ripe papaya with soft, bright orange flesh for natural sweetness that balances lime acidity.
Use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of chicken to ensure safety.
Original home-cooking adaptation inspired by Samoan; regional versions vary.
Use halal-certified meat, poultry, stock, sauces, cheese and other processed ingredients. Check labels and avoid cross-contamination. Recipe screening is not halal certification.

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