This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is an exciting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with rich coconut milk and aromatic spices. The creamy coconut base, enhanced with curry powder, chili powder, and fresh basil, creates a comforting yet vibrant dish that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice. The addition of red bell pepper, onion, and garlic brings extra depth and sweetness, making every bite a flavorful experience. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or something special to impress guests, this dish delivers a perfect balance of spiciness, creaminess, and freshness.

The dish is incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, mouthwatering meal. The chicken cooks in a flavorful coconut sauce, soaking up all the aromatic spices and becoming tender and juicy. Paired with rice, this dish is satisfying enough to be the star of any meal. It’s also versatile and can be made to suit your spice tolerance, making it suitable for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken for its perfect combination of flavors and textures. The coconut milk creates a silky, rich sauce, while the curry and chili powder add a warming spice. Fresh basil gives the dish a refreshing herbal finish that complements the creamy coconut base. Paired with rice, it’s a filling and satisfying meal that is quick and easy to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve on special occasions. The best part? It’s a one-pan dish, so cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breast
Coconut milk
Red bell pepper, diced
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Curry powder
Chili powder
Fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper
Cooked rice

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Heat Level: Adjust the chili powder based on your preferred spice level. You can also add a fresh chili for an extra kick.
Additional Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
Coconut Rice: For extra coconut flavor, cook the rice in coconut milk instead of water.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Sauce

In the same skillet, add the coconut milk, diced red bell pepper, chopped onion, minced garlic, curry powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is submerged in the coconut sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Add the Basil

Stir in the fresh basil leaves and let them wilt in the sauce, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the spiced coconut basil chicken over the cooked rice, spooning the sauce over the top. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken breasts are of similar thickness to ensure even cooking. If needed, pound the chicken to an even thickness before cooking.
Flavor Boost: For an added layer of flavor, you can marinate the chicken in some curry powder, garlic, and coconut milk for 30 minutes before cooking.
Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your personal spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.

How to Serve

Serve the Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken over a bed of steamed rice. For a complete meal, you can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. The creamy coconut sauce is perfect for spooning over the rice, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Freezing

To freeze, let the chicken and sauce cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.

2. Can I substitute the coconut milk with something else?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute coconut milk with low-fat milk or chicken broth, though it will alter the flavor and texture of the dish.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a sliced fresh chili for more heat.

4. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for even cooking. If you must use frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking.

5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together and taste even better the next day.

7. How can I thicken the sauce?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer longer, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the sauce and cook until thickened.

8. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works well in this dish, though it will require a longer cooking time.

9. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

10. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or other plant-based proteins to make this dish vegetarian.

Conclusion

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is an easy yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, aromatic coconut sauce. The addition of fresh basil adds a vibrant, herbal note that perfectly complements the spices in the dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for something delicious and comforting.