This Easy Basil Chicken is a treat! Tender chicken mingles with a creamy coconut curry sauce, bursting with flavor. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
What I love most is how quickly it comes together. Plus, the aroma of coconut and basil wafting through the kitchen is irresistible. Serve it over rice for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs for their tender texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breasts work too. You could also try tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk is crucial for creaminess. If you’re looking to reduce calories, light coconut milk is a fine substitute, but it might not be as rich. For dairy-free, you can also use almond milk—with less creaminess.
Curry Powder: I usually opt for a mild curry powder to balance the flavors, but feel free to use a spicier blend if you like heat! You can also mix up the flavor profile by using Thai curry paste, which adds a unique taste.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil works in a pinch—just use less since it’s stronger in flavor. Thai basil is a fantastic alternative if you want a distinct twist.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting that perfect sear on your chicken is key! Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken so it can brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Cook until the chicken is golden and no longer pink inside—around 5-7 minutes should do it, depending on size.
Removing the chicken from the skillet before adding the sauce helps keep it juicy and tender. This way, the chicken can absorb the delicious curry sauce flavors later.
How to Make Easy Basil Chicken in Creamy Coconut Curry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon curry powder (mild or medium heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for added umami)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- For Serving:
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. This sets the stage for a flavorful dish!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This keeps it tender and juicy!
3. Sauté Onions and Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. The aroma will be heavenly! Then, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until you can smell the fragrance of the ginger.
4. Add the Spices:
Stir in the curry powder and cook for another 30 seconds. This will toast the spices and bring out their flavors.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring this delightful mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Combine the Chicken:
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Let it simmer in the creamy sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Finish with Flavor:
Stir in the fish sauce (if using), lime juice, and the chopped fresh basil. Cook for another minute to incorporate the fresh basil flavor.
8. Adjust Seasoning:
Now’s the time to taste your dish! Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve this delicious, creamy coconut basil chicken over a bed of cooked rice. Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for that aromatic touch. Enjoy every bite of this fragrant and flavorful dish!
This recipe is quick, easy, and bound to become a family favorite—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to add a special touch to your dinner!
FAQ for Easy Basil Chicken in Creamy Coconut Curry Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed beforehand. The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight, or you can speed things up by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed. When using thawed chicken, be sure to pat it dry to achieve a nice sear.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the cooking time as needed until the tofu is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover basil chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also enjoy it with naan or any flatbread to scoop up the sauce!
