Creamy Basil Chicken in Coconut Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Basil Chicken with Coconut Sauce is a simple and flavorful dish that brings a creamy, aromatic twist to classic chicken recipes. This dish combines tender chicken with rich coconut milk and fresh basil for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken (cut into pieces)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a pan over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 2: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Step 3: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring gently to combine with the chicken and garlic.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Step 5: Stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving, allowing them to wilt slightly in the warm sauce.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add a few slices of fresh chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts to keep the meat juicy and tender.
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious coconut sauce.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove 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 basil?
Fresh basil is best for this recipe as it adds a bright, aromatic flavor. If you only have dried basil, use about one-third the amount and add it earlier in the cooking process to infuse the sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
The basic recipe is mild, but you can easily add chili peppers or red pepper flakes to give it some heat if you like your food spicy.
PrintCreamy Basil Chicken in Coconut Sauce Recipe
A flavorful Basil Chicken with Coconut Sauce recipe that features tender chicken simmered in a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce infused with fragrant basil and garlic. This dish offers a delicious combination of savory and aromatic flavors, perfect for a comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and roughly chop the fresh basil leaves.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat the vegetable or coconut oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
- Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Basil and Season: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and season with salt and black pepper according to your taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the basil is wilted and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the basil chicken with coconut sauce hot, ideally over steamed rice or your favorite grain.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat and better flavor absorption.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer to reduce or add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.
- Fresh basil is preferred for maximum flavor, but you can substitute with frozen basil if necessary.
- Adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper depending on your taste preferences.
- To add spice, consider including sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Keywords: Basil Chicken, Coconut Sauce, Thai Chicken Recipe, Coconut Milk Chicken, Easy Dinner, One-Pan Chicken
