This Easy Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken is a tasty dish that mixes creamy coconut milk with fresh basil and spices. It’s ready in no time and will make your kitchen smell amazing!
I love serving this chicken with rice to soak up the yummy sauce. Just be careful; everyone will want seconds! Who could resist that tropical twist? 🌴🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs because they’re juicier, but if you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken breasts are great too. If you’re looking for a meatless option, try tofu or chickpeas.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk brings a creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk. Almond milk is a good option too, though it won’t be as rich.
Fresh Basil: I recommend using Thai basil for its unique flavor, but regular basil works perfectly fine. If you can’t find basil, cilantro or parsley can be a fresh substitute.
Spices: Red curry paste adds a great kick. If you don’t have it, chili powder is an easy swap. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.
How Do I Get Tender Chicken in This Recipe?
To achieve tender chicken, let’s focus on a couple of key steps. First, cut the chicken into small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Here’s a little breakdown:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps in searing and locking in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can cause the chicken to steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook just until the chicken is no longer pink in the middle. Overcooking can make it tough.
Follow these tips and your chicken will be tender and full of flavor!
Easy Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated or finely minced
- 1 tbsp red curry paste or 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (Thai basil preferred, but regular basil works)
- Juice of half a lime
- Cooked jasmine or basmati rice, for serving
- Lime wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick option for a delicious weeknight meal. In just 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful, creamy, spiced chicken dinner on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil or coconut oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. This will provide a good base for cooking the chicken.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute, until they become fragrant and aromatic. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Stir frequently until the chicken starts to brown on all sides.
4. Spice It Up:
Now, stir in the red curry paste (or chili powder), ground turmeric, and ground cumin. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices, cooking for another minute to let those flavors bloom.
5. Pour in the Coconut Milk:
Add the coconut milk to the skillet and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it meld together beautifully.
6. Let It Simmer:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken cook for about 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Fold in the fresh basil leaves and gently stir until they wilt, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This will add a fresh and aromatic touch to your dish.
8. Add Lime Juice:
Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze the juice of half a lime over the chicken. This will enhance all those delicious flavors!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice. For a lovely presentation, garnish with additional basil leaves and lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy this creamy, aromatic, and easy-to-make chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
While boneless, skinless chicken is recommended for quicker cooking, you can use bone-in chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked, typically around 25-30 minutes. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Is There a Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you’re looking for a non-coconut option, you can use unsweetened almond milk or soy milk, though the sauce won’t be as creamy. For a similar texture, try adding a bit of cornstarch or flour to thicken it. You can also use full-fat evaporated milk for a rich substitute.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want extra heat, consider adding more red curry paste or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also include sliced fresh chilies in the cooking process for an added kick!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can pre-cook the chicken and sauce and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving, adding a splash of coconut milk to revive the creaminess if needed.
