This Easy Basil Chicken in Creamy Coconut Curry is a delicious meal, packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Juicy chicken swims in a rich coconut sauce with fragrant basil.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with rice to soak up every drop of that creamy goodness. Trust me, you will want to make this again and again! 🍛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for a tender texture. If you want a healthier option, you can use chicken breasts. For a meat-free version, try firm tofu or chickpeas, which will soak in the flavors beautifully.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives the dish its creamy richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use light coconut milk, but the sauce may be less creamy. You can also use unsweetened almond milk, but the flavor will differ.
Spices: The combination of curry powder, cumin, and paprika brings warmth and depth. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or coriander can add variety too!
Basil: Fresh basil is key in this dish for its bright flavor. If basil is unavailable, cilantro or parsley can work in a pinch, though the taste will vary. You could also try Thai basil for a more unique flavor that complements the coconut milk.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! Make sure to cut your chicken into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking. The secret is to sear the meat at a medium-high heat to lock in moisture.
- Heat oil in your skillet before adding the chicken.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid moving it around too much—let it sear!
- Once cooked, set the chicken aside before making your sauce to keep it juicy.
These steps will ensure your chicken stays tender and flavorful! Good luck with your cooking! 😊
Easy Basil Chicken in Creamy Coconut Curry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Curry:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk (full fat for creamier texture)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for brightness)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Basil Chicken in Creamy Coconut Curry will take about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion starts to soften and gets a bit translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them into the onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything smells fantastic and fragrant.
4. Add Spices:
Now, stir in the curry powder, cumin, and paprika. Let it cook for about 1 minute to slightly toast the spices, which will enhance their flavor.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the coconut milk while stirring to combine all the ingredients. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Bring It All Together:
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and stir to coat them thoroughly with your creamy coconut curry sauce. Let this cook together for another 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through.
7. Add Freshness:
Stir in the roughly chopped fresh basil and lime juice, if you’re using it. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as desired.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the basil chicken coconut curry hot over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for that beautiful finish. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have a comforting dish filled with aromatic flavors. Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🌿✨
FAQ for Easy Basil Chicken in Creamy Coconut Curry
Can I Use Low-Fat Coconut Milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat coconut milk for a lighter option, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy. If using low-fat, consider adding a small amount of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use fresh cilantro or parsley. Thai basil is also a great alternative with a unique flavor. Just remember that each herb will change the overall taste of the dish slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Just freshen it up with some extra basil before serving!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You could also add a splash of coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
