02/27/2025
Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice
A fragrant, creamy chicken dish infused with warm spices, coconut milk, and fresh basil, served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 tbsp soy sauce or fish sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp honey or brown sugar
½ cup fresh basil leaves (Thai basil preferred, but regular works too)
For the Rice:
1 ½ cups jasmine or basmati rice
3 cups water or chicken broth
½ tsp salt
Instructions:
Cook the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until clear.
In a pot, bring water (or broth) to a boil, add rice and salt, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Build the Flavor Base:
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onion until soft (about 3 minutes).
Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add turmeric, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes, stirring for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
Simmer in Coconut Milk:
Return the chicken to the pan.
Pour in coconut milk, soy sauce (or fish sauce), lime juice, and honey.
Stir and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
Finish with Basil:
Stir in fresh basil and cook for another minute until wilted.
Serve:
Spoon the spiced coconut basil chicken over warm rice.
Garnish with extra basil leaves and a squeeze of lime.
🔥 Pro Tip: For extra depth, add a teaspoon of curry powder or a splash of coconut cream for a richer sauce.
This dish is creamy, aromatic, and packed with bold flavors—perfect for an easy yet comforting meal! 🍛😋