Coconut Braised Chicken Neck – Bold Flavors in Every Bite

From Underrated to Unforgettable: Chicken Neck Magic!

Chicken neck? Oh yes! If you’ve never given it a chance, you’re in for a surprise. This humble cut is a hidden gem—packed with flavor, irresistibly tender, and perfect for soaking up bold spices. In many parts of the world, chicken neck is a delicacy, bringing together rich textures and deep, satisfying taste.

I still remember the first time I tried it. A street vendor in Bangkok handed me a skewer of crispy, golden-brown chicken neck, coated in a fragrant blend of lemongrass, chili, and coconut milk. One bite, and I was hooked. The flavors exploded—spicy, creamy, with a hint of sweetness from palm sugar. I knew I had to recreate this magic at home.

And now, I’m sharing this incredible recipe with you! Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious first-timer, this dish will turn you into a chicken neck believer. Get ready for crispy edges, tender bites, and a sauce so good, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything. Let’s get cooking!

A Bold & Spicy Chicken Neck Dish You’ll Love

This chicken neck recipe is inspired by bold Thai flavors, combining fragrant lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and fiery chili with the richness of coconut milk. The result? A dish that is both crispy and tender, bursting with umami, spice, and a subtle sweetness.

What makes this recipe special is the perfect balance of flavors. The chicken necks are marinated to soak up every bit of the seasoning before being coated in a light, crispy batter. Then, they are either pan-fried to golden perfection or braised in a coconut sauce that enhances every bite.

Perfect as an appetizer, a snack, or even a full meal when served with rice, this dish will impress anyone who loves bold, authentic flavors.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor!

Here’s everything you need to bring this dish to life:

• 1 kg chicken necks
• 2 small hot red chilies, finely chopped
• 1 ½ tablespoons lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons ginger, finely chopped
• 1 ½ tablespoons light soy sauce
• ½ tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar, grated (or substitute light brown sugar)
• 400 ml coconut milk
• 250 grams plain flour
• Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste

From Prep to Perfection – Let’s Cook!

Follow these steps to create the ultimate chicken neck dish, packed with bold flavors and a crispy, tender texture.

Marinate the Chicken Necks: In a large bowl, mix the chicken necks with soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili. Let it marinate for 30 minutes

Prepare the Batter: In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and cracked pepper.

Coat the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken necks, letting excess liquid drain, then coat each piece evenly in the flour mixture.

Cook to Perfection: For a Crispy Version: Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken necks until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel.

For a Braised Version: In a saucepan, heat a little oil, then add the marinated chicken. Pour in coconut milk and palm sugar. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is tender.

Serve & Enjoy! Garnish with fresh chilies or a squeeze of lime for an extra flavor boost.

Secrets to the Most Flavorful Chicken Neck

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Letting the chicken necks sit in the marinade overnight enhances the depth of taste.

Choose the Right Oil: If frying, use peanut or vegetable oil for a crispier texture.

Low & Slow for Braising: Simmering the coconut milk-based sauce on low heat prevents curdling and ensures tender meat.

Balance the Spice: Adjust the chili quantity based on your heat preference—start mild and add more if needed.

Test the Crispiness: For fried chicken necks, listen for a hollow, crunchy sound when tapping them with a spoon—this means they’re perfectly crispy!

Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs beautifully with sticky rice or a fresh papaya salad for a full Southeast Asian experience.

Small But Mighty – Why You’ll Love This Dish

Many overlook chicken neck, but this dish proves it’s a cut worth celebrating! Here’s why:

Packed with Flavor: The bones add depth and richness, making every bite incredibly satisfying.

Perfect Texture: Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside—it’s the best of both worlds.

Authentic Street Food Vibes: Whether grilled, fried, or braised, it transports you to the vibrant street markets of Thailand.

Affordable & Sustainable: Chicken necks are budget-friendly and a great way to use the whole bird, reducing waste.

Endlessly Versatile: Spice it up, tone it down, fry it, or simmer it—the choice is yours!

Make It Your Own – Creative Twists on Chicken Neck

One of the best things about this chicken neck recipe is how easily you can tweak it to fit your taste. Here are some delicious variations:

• Extra Crunchy: Double-coat the chicken necks by dipping them in beaten egg before rolling them in flour again.
• Grilled Version: Instead of frying, skewer the marinated chicken necks and grill them over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
• Sweet & Spicy Glaze: Toss fried chicken necks in a sauce made of honey, soy sauce, and extra chili for a sticky, spicy kick.
• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Skip the flour coating and opt for a dry rub of spices before roasting or grilling.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh Thai basil or cilantro to the coconut milk sauce for extra freshness.
• Kid-Friendly: Reduce the chili and serve with a side of sweet soy sauce or peanut dipping sauce.

No matter how you customize it, this dish always delivers on flavor!

What’s Inside? A Look at the Nutrition

Chicken necks may be small, but they’re packed with nutrients! Here’s a breakdown of what you’re getting per serving (approximate values based on preparation method):

• Calories: ~250-300 (varies depending on frying or braising)
• Protein: ~20g – A great source of lean protein to keep you full.
• Healthy Fats: ~12g – Coconut milk provides good fats for energy.
• Collagen & Gelatin: Chicken necks are rich in natural collagen, which supports healthy skin, joints, and digestion.
• Iron & Zinc: Essential minerals that support immune function and overall health.
• Low in Carbs: The base recipe is naturally low-carb, making it great for keto and paleo diets.

Want a lighter version? Opt for the braised coconut milk method instead of frying to reduce calories while keeping all the flavor!

Perfect Pairings – What to Serve With It

This dish is already packed with flavor, but the right side dishes can elevate it even more! Try these serving ideas:

• Sticky Rice: A must-have for soaking up the coconut sauce.
• Thai Papaya Salad: A fresh, tangy contrast to the rich, spicy chicken.
• Garlic Noodles: Toss some egg noodles with garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil for a delicious side.
• Pickled Vegetables: A crunchy, vinegary bite helps balance the richness.
• Chili-Lime Dipping Sauce: Mix fish sauce, lime juice, and chili for an extra kick.
• Cold Beer or Thai Iced Tea: Because a great meal deserves a great drink!

Did You Know? Surprising Facts About This Dish

Chicken necks might not be the most famous cut, but they come with a fascinating history!

• A Street Food Favorite: In Thailand, the Philippines, and China, grilled or fried chicken necks are a common street food snack, served on skewers with bold, spicy seasonings.
• Packed with Collagen: The high collagen content in chicken necks makes them great for skin, joints, and gut health—it’s nature’s anti-aging ingredient!
• A Zero-Waste Ingredient: Many cultures use the whole bird, and chicken necks are a prime example of making sure nothing goes to waste while still creating something delicious.
• Unexpectedly Gourmet: While often seen as a humble cut, top chefs have begun using chicken necks in fine dining, braising them in rich sauces for a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Perfect for Bone Broth: If you ever have extra chicken necks, simmer them with aromatics for a nutrient-rich broth that’s perfect for soups or sipping.

One Bite and You’ll Be Hooked!

Still not convinced? Here’s why this chicken neck recipe is a must-try:

• It’s Bursting with Flavor: Spicy, tangy, creamy, and rich—this dish hits all the right notes.
• Perfectly Crispy or Tender: Whether you fry it for crunch or braise it for tenderness, it’s always satisfying.
• Budget-Friendly and Sustainable: Get restaurant-quality flavor without the high price tag.
• A Fun Cooking Adventure: Trying something new in the kitchen is always exciting, and this dish is a great way to explore bold flavors.
• Guaranteed to Impress: Serve this to friends, and watch their surprise when they realize just how delicious chicken necks can be!

Everything You Need to Know

1. Are chicken necks safe to eat?
   Absolutely! Just be mindful of small bones and chew carefully. If braised, the bones soften slightly, making them easier to handle.
2. Can I make this recipe without frying?
   Yes! The braised coconut milk version is just as delicious and a bit healthier.
3. Where can I buy chicken necks?
   Check local butchers, Asian markets, or specialty grocery stores—they often sell them at a great price.
4. What if I don’t like spicy food?
   Simply reduce or remove the chili, and you’ll still have a flavorful, fragrant dish.
5. Can I store and reheat leftovers?
   Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to keep it crispy.

Why Stop at Just One Batch?

Now that you’ve discovered the magic of chicken neck, are you ready to give it a try? Whether you go for crispy fried perfection or a rich, coconut-braised delight, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.

So, grab those chicken necks, fire up the stove, and let your taste buds embark on a bold, flavor-packed adventure. And hey, if you end up eating the whole batch yourself… no judgment here.

Happy cooking!

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