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Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce

Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce for a Cozy Dinner Night

This Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce blends coconut milk and fresh basil for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian, Thai
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with chicken thighs for richer flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any neutral oil can be a substitute.
For the Base
  • 1 medium Chopped Onion Shallots or leeks can be a tasty alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) as a quick substitute.
  • 1 medium Jalapeño Peppers Remove seeds for less heat, substitute with bell pepper for gentler flavors.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Coconut Milk Opt for unsweetened coconut milk for best results.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Gluten-free option available by substituting with soy sauce or tamari.
For Freshness and Flavor
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves Thai basil can offer a different flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon) can be used in a pinch.
For Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric
For Serving
  • 3 cups Rice/Quinoa/Cauli-Rice Any grain of your choice works beautifully.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine your spices for the marinade, ensuring an even distribution. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle the spice blend over the chicken. Toss to coat thoroughly and let it marinate for about 30 minutes.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and jalapeño peppers, sautéing until the onions become translucent, about 3 minutes. Mince the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Transfer the sautéed mix to a plate and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Add half of the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear each side until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside with the sautéed vegetables. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and pour the coconut milk into the skillet, scraping any flavorful brown bits left from the chicken. Stir the milk for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, allowing the mixture to meld together.
  5. Return both the sautéed vegetables and cooked chicken back to the skillet. Add the fresh basil leaves and grated ginger. Stir well to combine, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through and fragrant.
  6. Spoon the Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce over a bed of rice, quinoa, or cauli-rice. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allowing the spices to marinate enhances the flavor depth. Adjust spice levels as needed and check the freshness of your spices for optimal flavor.

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