Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich coconut milk, and aromatic spices. The creamy coconut sauce is infused with basil, creating a tantalizing blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Served over fluffy rice, this dish is comforting, satisfying, and perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the warmth of spices with the refreshing taste of fresh basil, making every bite exciting and flavorful. The coconut milk adds a rich creaminess that complements the tender chicken, while the fragrant rice helps balance the richness. The recipe is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal that will impress your guests. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just looking for something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and chili flakes. Set aside.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, and lime juice. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Finish with basil: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the chicken just before serving.
Serve: Serve the spiced coconut basil chicken over the cooked rice, making sure to drizzle the coconut sauce generously over the top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version. Ensure that the tofu is pressed and cooked until golden for the best texture.
Spicy: If you love heat, you can increase the amount of chili flakes or add a chopped fresh chili to the sauce.
Rice alternatives: Instead of traditional rice, you can serve the dish with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a bed of sautéed greens for a low-carb option.
Herb options: While basil is the star here, you can also experiment with cilantro or mint for a different twist on flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dish may be kept in the sauce to retain moisture.
Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until the chicken and rice are heated through. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make the dish spicier, you can increase the chili flakes or add fresh chopped chilies to the coconut milk sauce. You can also serve the dish with a hot chili sauce on the side.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken may take a little longer to cook through, so you should allow 10-15 more minutes for it to fully cook.

Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can substitute it with heavy cream, almond milk, or even chicken broth for a lighter version, though the flavor will change slightly.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can season and cook the chicken in advance. Keep it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. However, it’s best to prepare the sauce fresh to keep the flavors vibrant.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free or substitute with tamari sauce.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the breast and make sure the juices run clear.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and coconut sauce for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container, and defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What kind of rice should I use?

You can use white rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, or even basmati rice for this dish. The choice depends on your preference for texture and flavor.

How can I add more vegetables to the dish?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce while it simmers for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil is ideal for this dish, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount (approximately 2 tablespoons) for the best results.

Conclusion

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings bold flavors to your table. The combination of tender chicken, rich coconut milk, and fresh basil makes it a truly memorable meal. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or hosting guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.