Creamy Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy coconut curry. The fresh basil adds a fragrant touch, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp curry paste
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken pieces until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the curry paste to the pan and stir for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
- Step 3: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot with rice or noodles.
Tips & Variations
- Use Thai basil if available for a more authentic and aromatic flavor.
- For extra heat, add sliced chili peppers or a pinch of chili flakes to the curry paste.
- Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood variation.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer to reduce or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Storage
Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. The coconut milk may separate slightly but will blend back together when stirred.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought curry paste for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought curry paste works well and makes the recipe quick and easy. Choose your preferred flavor and spice level.
What can I serve with Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
PrintCreamy Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce Recipe
A flavorful Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce combines tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich and creamy coconut milk curry infused with aromatic basil and curry paste. This easy-to-make dish offers a perfect balance of savory and fragrant spices, ideal for a comforting meal served over rice or with warm naan.
- 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
Herbs and Aromatics:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
Sauce:
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp red or yellow curry paste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce for extra umami
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop the basil. Finely chop the onion, and mince garlic and ginger.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides and nearly cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Curry Paste: Stir in the curry paste, coating the chicken and aromatics evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the spices’ fragrance.
- Simmer with Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Basil and Season: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and season with salt and optional fish or soy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the basil is wilted and aromatic.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the basil chicken curry hot with steamed rice or your choice of sides.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor; Thai basil is ideal but sweet basil works well too.
- Adjust curry paste amount to your preferred spice level.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added texture and nutrition.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry.
- This dish can be made spicier by adding chopped fresh chili or chili flakes.
Keywords: basil chicken, coconut curry, Thai curry, chicken curry, coconut milk recipe, easy chicken curry, stovetop curry
