Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a fragrant and flavorful dish, featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce with bold spices and fresh basil. The combination of curry powder, cumin, paprika, and turmeric brings warmth and depth, while the coconut milk adds richness. This dish pairs perfectly with aromatic jasmine or basmati rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

• 1 tablespoon curry powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Cooked jasmine rice or basmati rice, for serving

• Fresh lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Spice It Up: Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Cook for another 1 minute to toast the spices and bring out their full flavor.

4. Add Coconut Milk and Sauces: Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and brown sugar. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with any juices. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Finish with Basil: Stir in the fresh basil leaves, letting them wilt into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.

7. Serve: Serve the spiced coconut basil chicken over cooked jasmine or basmati rice. Garnish with fresh lime wedges on the side for a burst of citrus.

Tips for Perfect Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken:

• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer more heat, add some red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the dish when cooking the spices.

• Chicken Cut: Both chicken thighs and breasts work well, but thighs tend to remain juicier and more flavorful after simmering.

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to the dish for extra color and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Bold Flavors: The blend of spices, coconut milk, and fresh basil creates a rich and aromatic dish that’s packed with flavor.

• Creamy and Comforting: The coconut milk makes the sauce creamy and comforting, perfectly complementing the tender chicken.

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that still feels special.

This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the freshness of basil and the warmth of spices. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s sure to impress!