Get ready for a tasty chicken dish that’s bursting with flavor! This Easy Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken features tender chicken cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce, paired with fresh basil and just the right spices.
What I love most is how quick it comes together. Perfect for busy weeknights! Just toss everything in the pan, let it simmer, and soon you’ll be celebrating dinner with a delicious tropical twist. 🍗🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. However, chicken breasts work just as well if you prefer a leaner option. You can also use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version!
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives a rich and creamy sauce, but you can use light coconut milk if you want to reduce calories. For a non-dairy option, try a nut milk or homemade cashew cream, though the texture will be slightly different.
Spices: The combination of paprika, turmeric, and cumin gives depth to the dish. Feel free to swap in curry powder if you want a slightly different flavor profile. If you like it spicier, increase the chili flakes!
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for its vibrant flavor, but if you can’t find it, you might try using cilantro or parsley as alternatives. Dried basil works in a pinch but won’t have the same fresh kick.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken so it’s tender and juicy can be tricky but not with these tips! Start by cutting the chicken into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking throughout. Here’s what to do:
- Heat the oil before adding chicken to get a nice sear, which adds flavor.
- Season your chicken just before cooking for the best flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want each piece to brown nicely.
- Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s browned and cooked through—around 165°F (75°C) is ideal.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creamier sauce)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 – 1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or whole leaves
- 1 tbsp lime juice (plus extra wedges for serving)
- Cooked jasmine or basmati rice, for serving
Time Estimate:
This Easy Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have this flavorful dish ready in just about 30-35 minutes!
Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by pouring the vegetable oil or coconut oil into a large skillet. Heat it over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. This will help the chicken get that nice golden brown color!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, turmeric, cumin, and chili flakes. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and mostly cooked through.
3. Add Coconut Milk:
Next, pour in the coconut milk and stir everything together. Make sure to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet—this is where all the flavor lives! Mix well and ensure the chicken is covered with the coconut milk.
4. Simmer:
Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer gently. This will take about 5-8 minutes. Keep cooking until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened a bit.
5. Stir in Basil and Lime Juice:
After the chicken is cooked, add the fresh basil leaves and lime juice to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the basil is wilted and fragrant. The fresh basil really adds a wonderful flavor!
6. Taste and Serve:
Give your dish a taste and adjust any seasoning if needed. Once you’re happy with the flavor, it’s time to serve! Spoon the spiced coconut basil chicken over warm rice and add some lime wedges on the side for extra zing.
Enjoy your flavorful, creamy chicken with the fresh and aromatic touch of basil and a hint of spice!
FAQ for Easy Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it beforehand for even cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a quicker option, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour before cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you’re looking for a substitute for coconut milk, you can use an unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will differ, but it should still work well in the recipe!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like heat, feel free to increase the chili flakes or add in a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for an extra kick, depending on your preference!
