Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce: The Ultimate Recipe
Introduction to Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce
Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to please. It’s easy to make and brings a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen.
A Personal Story Behind My Basil Chicken Journey
I first encountered Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce during a family reunion at my cousin’s home. She served it with a side of fragrant brown rice, and I was instantly captivated by the fusion of flavors. Since then, I’ve made it a staple in my own kitchen, tweaking the recipe over time to suit my family’s tastes. Each time I prepare it, I’m reminded of that joyful gathering and the deliciousness that brought us all together.
What Makes This Basil Chicken Recipe Special?
This particular recipe stands out due to its unique spice blend that infuses the chicken with robust flavors. The creamy coconut milk adds a luscious texture that perfectly balances the heat from the jalapeños, making it suitable for a variety of palates. Furthermore, the fresh basil and ginger elevate the dish, giving it a refreshing finish that leaves you wanting more. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!
The Full Basil Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 lb. skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3/4 cup chopped onion
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 jalapeño peppers, minced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 14 oz. can coconut milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh ginger
- 2-3 cups cooked brown rice
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, black pepper, chili powder, salt, and turmeric. This spice blend will create a wonderful aroma and flavor.
- Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and sprinkle the spice mixture over them. Let it marinate for 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors. This step enhances the taste of the chicken.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced jalapeño. Cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove the mixture from the skillet and set it aside. This will build a flavorful base for the dish.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Cook half of the marinated chicken pieces until they are cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside, then repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Pour the coconut milk into the skillet, stirring well. Cook until the sauce thickens and bubbles, which should take about 5 minutes. Add in the Worcestershire sauce for an additional layer of flavor.
- Return the chicken and the onion/jalapeño mixture to the skillet. Stir in the chopped basil and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. This will allow all the ingredients to combine beautifully.
- Serve the basil chicken over a bed of cooked brown rice, spooning extra coconut curry sauce on top. Garnish with additional basil if desired for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Basil Chicken
This dish can be served over various bases such as quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Additionally, feel free to customize the heat level by adjusting the number of jalapeños used. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving. You can also replace the chicken breasts with thighs for a different texture and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basil Chicken
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve.
How can I make it spicier?
You can add more jalapeños or include a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
What can I serve with Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with brown rice, quinoa, or even a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
Recipe Stats:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 4
Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce
Equipment
- Skillet Large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 tsp cumin
- 0.5 tsp cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp ground cloves
- 0.5 tsp ground cardamom
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.5 tsp chili powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 0.75 cup chopped onion
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can coconut milk 14 oz.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.33 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh ginger
- 2 3 cups cooked brown rice
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, black pepper, chili powder, salt, and turmeric. This spice blend will create a wonderful aroma and flavor.
- Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and sprinkle the spice mixture over them. Let it marinate for 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors. This step enhances the taste of the chicken.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced jalapeño. Cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove the mixture from the skillet and set it aside. This will build a flavorful base for the dish.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Cook half of the marinated chicken pieces until they are cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside, then repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Pour the coconut milk into the skillet, stirring well. Cook until the sauce thickens and bubbles, which should take about 5 minutes. Add in the Worcestershire sauce for an additional layer of flavor.
- Return the chicken and the onion/jalapeño mixture to the skillet. Stir in the chopped basil and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. This will allow all the ingredients to combine beautifully.
- Serve the basil chicken over a bed of cooked brown rice, spooning extra coconut curry sauce on top. Garnish with additional basil if desired for a fresh touch.