Name: Opor Ayam (Chicken in Coconut Milk) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 lbs chicken; 1 lemon; 4 candlenuts; 1 tsp ground coriander; ½ tsp cumin seeds; 7 shallots; 5 garlic cloves; 1 tbsp galangal; ½ tbsp ginger; ½ tsp white peppercorns; ½ tsp fresh turmeric root; 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 2 lemongrass stalks; 1 tbsp tamarind juice; 5 Kaffir lime leaves; 3 bay leaves; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp white sugar; 3⅓ cups coconut milk; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 bunch small Thai basil; 2.8 oz fried shallots

Experience the rich, aromatic flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this traditional Opor Ayam recipe. This dish, a staple during festive occasions, features chicken simmered to tender perfection in a savory coconut milk broth, infused with an array of spices that bring a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes.

Photos of Opor Ayam (Chicken in Coconut Milk) Recipe

This recipe calls for specific ingredients like candlenuts, galangal, tamarind juice, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai basil which are crucial to achieving the authentic flavors of Opor Ayam. While these might not be commonly found in a Western supermarket, they can usually be sourced from an Asian grocery store or online suppliers. Candlenuts, similar to macadamia nuts, are common in Indonesian cooking for adding texture and flavor. Galangal, a cousin of ginger, has a unique flavor that is both sharp and citrusy. Tamarind juice lends a tangy sweetness, while kaffir lime leaves and Thai basil add aromatic freshness.

Ingredients for Opor Ayam (Chicken in Coconut Milk)

Chicken: The main protein in this dish. It is simmered until tender and absorbs all the flavors from the other ingredients.

Lemon: Used in the marination process to tenderize the chicken and add a subtle citrus note.

Candlenuts: Used as a thickening agent and for their distinctive flavor.

Coriander: Adds a warm, nutty, and spicy flavor to the dish.

Cumin seeds: They have a strong, earthy flavor.

Shallots: Add a sweet and mild flavor.

Garlic: Essential for adding depth of flavor.

Galangal: Gives the dish a sharp and citrusy flavor.

Ginger: Imparts a warm, spicy flavor.

White peppercorns: Add heat to the dish.

Turmeric root: Gives a vibrant color and a warm, earthy flavor.

Vegetable oil: Used for sauteing the spice paste.

Lemongrass: Adds a fresh, lemony aroma and taste.

Tamarind juice: Provides a tangy sweetness.

Kaffir lime leaves: Contribute to the dish's characteristic citrusy aroma.

Bay leaves: Add a subtle bitterness to balance the sweetness of the dish.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.

White sugar: Balances the heat and sourness.

Coconut milk: Adds a rich, creamy texture and a slight sweetness.

Thai basil: Used as a garnish and for its unique aroma and flavor.

Fried shallots: Adds a crispy texture and sweet flavor to the dish.

One reader, Danette Cotton says:

This opor ayam recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices and coconut milk creates a rich and flavorful dish. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, and the aroma is simply irresistible. It's a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent, comforting meals.

Danette Cotton

Mastering the Techniques for Opor Ayam

How to prepare the spice paste: Grind the candlenuts, coriander, and cumin into a paste with shallots, garlic, galangal, ginger, peppercorns, and turmeric using a mortar and pestle.

How to simmer the chicken: After adding the chicken to the skillet, pour in the thin and thick coconut milk and simmer for about 30 minutes until the flavors combine.

How to finish the dish: Add the basil leaves and continue cooking for about 15 minutes more until the chicken is tender. Serve the chicken and sauce in a bowl, sprinkled with fried shallots.

How To Make Opor Ayam (Chicken in Coconut Milk)

Made with lemongrass and bold spices, this Indonesian chicken in coconut milk or opor ayam serves a creamy and delicious dish for an easy weeknight meal.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3lbschicken,cut into 8 pieces
1lemon,juiced
4candlenuts
1tspground coriander
½tspcumin seeds
7shallots,peeled
5garlic cloves,peeled
1tbspgalangal,chopped
½tbspginger,chopped
½tspwhite peppercorns
½tspfresh turmeric root,chopped
3tbspvegetable oil
2lemongrass stalks,bruised
1tbsptamarind juice
5kaffir lime leaves
3bay leaves
1tspsalt
½tspwhite sugar
3⅓cupscoconut milk,thin
1cupcoconut milk,thick
1bunchsmall Thai basil
2.8ozfried shallots,(1 package)

Instructions

Soak the chicken pieces in lemon juice for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast the candlenuts, coriander, and cumin in the skillet for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Transfer to a large mortar and pestle and grind into a paste with shallots, garlic, galangal, ginger, peppercorns, and turmeric. Work in batches, if necessary.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spice paste and stir for 2 to 3 minutes until aromatic. Add the lemongrass, tamarind juice, lime leaves, bay leaves, salt, and sugar.
Rinse the lemon juice off the chicken pieces and slide them into the skillet. Turn to coat evenly with spices. Pour in the thin and thick coconut milk. Simmer for about 30 minutes until the flavors combine.
Add the basil leaves. Continue cooking for about 15 minutes more until chicken is tender.
Serve chicken and sauce in a bowl, sprinkled with fried shallots. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 727.58kcal
Fat: 58.40g
Saturated Fat: 31.06g
Trans Fat: 0.21g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.47g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.79g
Carbohydrates: 18.60g
Fiber: 2.84g
Sugar: 5.79g
Protein: 36.39g
Cholesterol: 127.57mg
Sodium: 435.00mg
Calcium: 91.24mg
Potassium: 892.72mg
Iron: 7.54mg
Vitamin A: 84.14µg
Vitamin C: 14.75mg

Elevate Your Opor Ayam with This Technique Tip

When making opor ayam, it's important to marinate the chicken in lemon juice for at least 30 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a more succulent dish. Additionally, when grinding the spices, make sure to achieve a smooth paste for a more uniform and intense flavor. Lastly, simmering the chicken in coconut milk should be done on a low heat to prevent the milk from curdling and to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Opor Ayam

Prep ahead: Prepare the spice paste and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to grind the spice paste ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Organize ingredients: Pre-measure and organize all the ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the cooking process.

Simmer in a slow cooker: Consider using a slow cooker to simmer the chicken in coconut milk, allowing you to attend to other tasks while it cooks.

Buy pre-made fried shallots: Save time by purchasing pre-made fried shallots instead of frying them from scratch.

Substitute Ingredients For Opor Ayam (Chicken in Coconut Milk) Recipe

Chicken - Substitute with Turkey: Turkey is a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken, and it works well in dishes that call for chicken. It has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well.
Lemon - Substitute with Lime: Lime can be used as a substitute for lemon to provide a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the dish.
Candlenuts - Substitute with Macadamia nuts: Macadamia nuts have a similar rich and creamy texture to candlenuts, making them a suitable substitute in recipes.
Ground coriander - Substitute with Cumin: Cumin can be used as a substitute for ground coriander to add a warm and earthy flavor to the dish.
Cumin seeds - Substitute with Caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a similar earthy and slightly peppery flavor to cumin seeds, making them a good substitute in recipes.
Shallots - Substitute with Red onions: Red onions can be used as a substitute for shallots to provide a mild and sweet onion flavor to the dish.
Garlic cloves - Substitute with Garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a concentrated garlic flavor to the dish.
Galangal - Substitute with Ginger: Ginger can be used as a substitute for galangal to add a similar warm and spicy flavor to the dish.
Ginger - Substitute with Galangal: Galangal has a similar spicy and citrusy flavor to ginger, making it a suitable substitute in recipes.
White peppercorns - Substitute with Black peppercorns: Black peppercorns can be used as a substitute for white peppercorns to provide a similar level of heat and pungent flavor to the dish.
Fresh turmeric root - Substitute with Ground turmeric: Ground turmeric can be used as a substitute for fresh turmeric root to add a warm and earthy flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
Vegetable oil - Substitute with Canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for vegetable oil in cooking.
Lemongrass stalks - Substitute with Lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used as a substitute for lemongrass to provide a citrusy and floral aroma to the dish.
Tamarind juice - Substitute with Lime juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for tamarind juice to provide a similar level of acidity and tangy flavor to the dish.
Kaffir lime leaves - Substitute with Bay leaves: Bay leaves can be used as a substitute for kaffir lime leaves to add a subtle citrus and herbal flavor to the dish.
Bay leaves - Substitute with Thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for bay leaves to add a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor to the dish.
Salt - Substitute with Sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt to provide a similar level of salinity to the dish.
White sugar - Substitute with Brown sugar: Brown sugar can be used as a substitute for white sugar to add a slightly caramelized and molasses flavor to the dish.
Coconut milk - Substitute with Almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a substitute for coconut milk to provide a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
Coconut milk - Substitute with Cashew cream: Cashew cream can be used as a substitute for coconut milk to provide a rich and creamy texture to the dish.
Thai basil - Substitute with Italian basil: Italian basil can be used as a substitute for Thai basil to provide a similar sweet and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
Fried shallots - Substitute with French fried onions: French fried onions can be used as a substitute for fried shallots to add a crispy and savory topping to the dish.

Presenting Opor Ayam: Tips for a Beautiful Dish

Elevate the plating: As a Top Chef, it's essential to present the opor ayam in a visually stunning manner. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add color and vibrancy to the dish. Arrange the chicken pieces meticulously and drizzle the coconut milk sauce strategically to create an appealing visual composition.
Incorporate texture: Introduce crispy shallots to provide a delightful crunch to the dish. Additionally, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a contrasting texture that elevates the overall dining experience.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for handcrafted ceramic plates or artisanal wooden platters to showcase the opor ayam. The choice of serving ware should complement the rustic yet refined nature of the dish.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Every element, from the chicken pieces to the garnishes, should be meticulously positioned to demonstrate precision and attention to detail.
Incorporate a touch of luxury: Consider serving the opor ayam with a side of saffron-infused rice or truffle-infused mashed potatoes to add a touch of opulence to the dish, appealing to the discerning palates of Michelin-starred culinary professionals.
Balance flavors and colors: Ensure a harmonious balance of flavors and colors on the plate. The vibrant hues of the dish should be visually striking, while the flavors should be well-balanced and complementary, creating a multisensory dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Opor Ayam

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It is a great tool for making spice pastes, marinades, and sauces.
Mortar and pestle: This traditional tool is used for grinding and crushing spices, herbs, and aromatics to create flavorful pastes and blends.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a versatile cooking tool used for sautéing, frying, and searing ingredients. It is essential for toasting spices and cooking the chicken in this recipe.
Large skillet: A larger skillet is useful for cooking larger quantities of food and for simmering the chicken in coconut milk.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining and marinating the chicken with the spice paste and other ingredients.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used for simmering and reducing the coconut milk and chicken to create a flavorful sauce.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting and preparing the chicken, shallots, garlic, and other ingredients in this recipe.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Skewers: Skewers may be used for grilling or roasting the chicken before adding it to the coconut milk.
Lemon squeezer: A lemon squeezer can be used to extract the juice from the lemon for marinating the chicken.
Grater: A grater can be used to grate fresh turmeric root and ginger for the spice paste.
Strainer: A strainer may be used for straining tamarind juice or for draining excess liquid from the chicken before cooking.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are essential for accurately measuring and adding spices, salt, sugar, and tamarind juice to the recipe.

Storing and Freezing Opor Ayam for Later Enjoyment

Allow the opor ayam to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, transfer the cooled opor ayam to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Opor ayam can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen opor ayam in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed opor ayam in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing and reheating, add a little water or coconut milk to thin it out and adjust the consistency to your liking.
Avoid refreezing previously frozen and thawed opor ayam, as this may affect the texture and quality of the dish.

How To Reheat Leftover Opor Ayam

Reheat the opor ayam in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method allows the chicken to slowly warm up, preventing it from drying out and allowing the coconut milk to gently simmer and reincorporate with the other ingredients.
If you prefer a quicker method, transfer the opor ayam to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is steaming.
For a crispy twist, shred the leftover chicken and spread it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little of the coconut milk sauce over the top and broil for 2-3 minutes until the edges of the chicken start to crisp up. Serve the crispy opor ayam over rice or as a filling for tacos or sandwiches.
If you have a lot of leftover sauce, consider repurposing it as a base for a curry. Simmer the sauce with additional coconut milk, vegetables, and your choice of protein (such as tofu, shrimp, or more chicken) until everything is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
For a cold opor ayam salad, shred the leftover chicken and toss it with the remaining coconut milk sauce, thinly sliced red onions, cucumber, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve the salad over a bed of lettuce or rice noodles for a refreshing and flavorful meal.

Interesting Trivia About Opor Ayam

Opor ayam is a traditional Indonesian dish often served during festive occasions such as Eid al-Fitr. It is a popular dish in the country and is often enjoyed with steamed rice. The use of coconut milk in the recipe gives the dish a rich and creamy flavor, making it a favorite among many Indonesians. The combination of spices such as galangal, turmeric, and lemongrass adds depth and complexity to the dish, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. Opor ayam is a dish that brings people together and is a symbol of celebration and togetherness in Indonesian culture.

Budget-Friendly Opor Ayam: Is It Economical for Home Cooking?

This opor ayam (chicken in coconut milk) recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken and coconut milk, are affordable and readily available. The use of spices and herbs adds depth of flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and budget-friendly option for a satisfying meal. I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and flavorful outcome.

Is This Indonesian Chicken Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The opor ayam recipe is a flavorful Indonesian dish that incorporates a variety of spices and ingredients. While it does contain some healthy components, such as chicken, lemongrass, and turmeric, the recipe also includes a significant amount of coconut milk, which is high in saturated fat. Additionally, the use of fried shallots as a garnish adds extra fat and calories to the dish.

However, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier:

Use skinless chicken breast instead of chicken with skin to reduce the overall fat content
Replace some of the coconut milk with low-fat coconut milk or chicken broth to lower the saturated fat content
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding bell peppers, carrots, or green beans, to boost the nutritional value
Use a smaller amount of oil when frying the spice paste and consider using a healthier oil like olive oil or coconut oil
Reduce the amount of fried shallots used as a garnish or replace them with fresh, chopped scallions for added flavor without the extra fat

By incorporating these changes, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of opor ayam while making it a more balanced and nutritious meal. The addition of more vegetables and the reduction of saturated fat from coconut milk and fried shallots will help to create a healthier version of this traditional Indonesian dish.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Indonesian Recipe

This recipe for opor ayam showcases a harmonious blend of aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish. The use of fresh ingredients such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and turmeric adds depth to the flavor profile. The method of marinating the chicken in lemon juice before cooking helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with a subtle citrus note. The addition of fried shallots provides a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of savory, spicy, and creamy elements, making it a delightful addition to any dining experience.

Enhance Your Opor Ayam (Chicken in Coconut Milk) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice steamed to perfection, perfect for soaking up the delicious coconut milk sauce of the opor ayam.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to caramelized perfection, adding a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich and savory opor ayam.

Cucumber and Red Onion Salad: Refreshing and crisp cucumber and red onion salad, providing a light and crunchy accompaniment to the creamy opor ayam.

Coconut Rice: Fragrant and creamy coconut rice, elevating the coconut flavor in the opor ayam and adding a delightful texture to the meal.

Discover Similar Recipes to Opor Ayam

Beef Rendang: This traditional Indonesian dish is a flavorful and aromatic beef stew cooked in coconut milk and a mixture of lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and other spices. It's a perfect dish to serve with steamed rice.

Mango Sticky Rice: A popular Thai dessert made with sweet sticky rice, ripe mango slices, and a drizzle of coconut milk. It's a simple yet delicious treat that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Tom Yum Soup: This classic Thai soup is a spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, mushrooms, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. It's a comforting and flavorful soup that's perfect for any time of the year.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Opor Ayam Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs. They are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Serve up a taste of Italy with these classic bruschetta appetizers. Toasted baguette slices are topped with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil, creating a refreshing and satisfying start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Opor Ayam (Chicken in Coconut Milk) Recipe:

This recipe for opor ayam (chicken in coconut milk) is a traditional Indonesian dish that has been passed down through generations. The use of fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal ensures an authentic and aromatic flavor profile. The combination of spices and herbs creates a rich and complex taste that is both comforting and satisfying. With a balance of savory and creamy coconut milk, this dish promises to deliver a delightful culinary experience. Trust in the time-honored techniques and ingredients to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Indonesia.

If you've tried this Opor Ayam (Chicken in Coconut Milk) recipe or have any tips to share, head over to the World Cuisines forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe. The dark meat stays tender and flavorful during the cooking process, adding richness to the dish.

Can I substitute any of the ingredients?

Yes, you can make some substitutions based on availability. For example, if you can't find candlenuts, you can use macadamia nuts as a substitute. If fresh turmeric root is not available, you can use ground turmeric as a replacement.

How spicy is this dish?

This dish is not very spicy. The white peppercorns add a subtle heat, but it's not overwhelming. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add some chopped red chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. In fact, the flavors tend to develop even more if you let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Just reheat it gently before serving.

What can I serve with opor ayam?

Opor ayam is traditionally served with steamed rice, but you can also pair it with some fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy coconut milk sauce.