Basil Chicken with Coconut Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Basil Chicken with Coconut Sauce is a fragrant and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, aromatic coconut sauce infused with fresh basil and garlic. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 2: Add the chicken pieces and cook until they start to brown on all sides.
- Step 3: Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Step 4: Cook the chicken in the coconut sauce until fully cooked and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Step 5: Stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving to release their aroma and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or sliced fresh chili.
- Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and color.
- Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful dish.
Storage
Store leftover basil chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid curdling the coconut milk.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor and aroma, but you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried basil if fresh is unavailable. Add it earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavor to develop.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming you use plain coconut milk and no added sauces containing gluten.
PrintBasil Chicken with Coconut Sauce Recipe
This Basil Chicken with Coconut Sauce is a fragrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with fresh basil and garlic. It’s a simple, comforting meal that combines the richness of coconut with the aromatic freshness of basil for a delightful taste inspired by Southeast Asian cuisine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce
- 1 can (13.5 oz/400 ml) coconut milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the fresh basil leaves.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer in Coconut Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chicken simmer gently in the coconut sauce until cooked through and tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add Basil and Finish: Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the fresh chopped basil. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the basil chicken with coconut sauce hot, ideally over steamed jasmine rice or your preferred side.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred; thighs tend to be juicier.
- Fresh basil is highly recommended for the best flavor, but Thai basil can be used for a more authentic taste.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and basil based on your personal preference.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies when sautéing the garlic.
- The dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.
Keywords: Basil chicken, coconut milk chicken, Southeast Asian chicken recipe, easy coconut sauce chicken, fragrant basil chicken
