Go Back
+ servings
Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice: Quick Tropical Comfort

This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a quick, customizable dish that transforms comfort food into a tropical delight.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian, Tropical
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer taste.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be swapped with coconut oil for more tropical flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped for even cooking.
  • 2 teaspoons Garlic (minced) Adds depth and aroma to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger (grated) Contributes warmth and a subtle kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Essential for aromatic profiles.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Provides color and a mild earthy taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust to your preference for heat.
  • 1 can Coconut Milk The creamy star of the dish.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Opt for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil (chopped) Adds fresh aromatic notes.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Balances the creamy richness.
For Serving
  • 4 cups Cooked Rice (white, brown, or jasmine) Cauliflower rice or quinoa can be low-carb alternatives.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cooking your choice of rice according to the package directions, typically around 15-20 minutes for white or jasmine rice. Once the rice is fluffy and fully cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches a golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, add one finely chopped onion, and sauté it for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, stirring frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are aromatic. Next, pour in 1 can of coconut milk and 1 cup of chicken broth.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and ensure it is submerged in the creamy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Once the chicken has simmered, stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil and the juice of 1 lime, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. To serve, place a generous scoop of rice on each plate and ladle the chicken and the vibrant coconut sauce over the top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice levels.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!