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Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce

Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce for Cozy Family Dinners

This Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce combines the richness of coconut milk with Indian spices, creating a delightful family dinner.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves Substitute with shrimp or tofu if desired.
For the Spice Blend
  • 2 tbsp Curry powder Adjust based on desired spice level.
  • 1 tsp Salt Kosher salt is best.
  • 1 tsp Black pepper White pepper can be used.
  • 1 tsp Chili powder Swap for paprika for milder flavor.
For the Sauce and Vegetables
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Can replace with vegetable or coconut oil.
  • 1 medium Red onion Yellow onions or shallots can be used.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced preferred.
  • 1 medium Jalapeno pepper Substitute with bell pepper for milder dish.
  • 1 tbsp Dried basil Fresh basil can enhance flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Ground ginger Fresh ginger adds more flavor.
  • 1 can (14 oz) Coconut milk Opt for light coconut milk if preferred.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Substitute with half-and-half or yogurt for lighter option.
  • 2 tbsp Cornstarch Can be omitted for less thick sauce.
For Serving
  • 4 cups Hot cooked rice Can alternate with naan or quinoa.

Equipment

  • large nonstick frying pan
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breast halves into 1-inch pieces. In a large bowl, season the chicken with curry powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
  2. In a large nonstick frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped red onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, jalapeno pepper, dried basil, and ground ginger. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, or until it’s no longer pink in the center, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, heavy cream, and cornstarch until well combined. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the cooked chicken and vegetables, whisking continuously. Cook over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble.
  5. To serve, place generous portions of hot cooked rice on each plate. Spoon the Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce over the rice and garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinade for at least two hours for deeper flavors. Serve fresh for best texture.

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