Description
There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a creamy curry to elevate your weeknight dinner, and this Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce does just that! It’s a flavorful fusion of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a luscious coconut curry sauce, topped with fresh basil for a fragrant finish. Serve it with steamed rice or warm naan for the ultimate experience.
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Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Steamed rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, ginger, and red curry paste, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Curry Base
- Add the turmeric, coriander, and chili flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
- Stir in the soy sauce and fish sauce (if using).
Step 4: Simmer the Curry
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Step 5: Add the Basil and Lime
- Stir in the fresh basil leaves and lime juice. Cook for 2 more minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the basil chicken curry over steamed rice or with naan bread. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Use Fresh Basil: Thai basil adds an authentic flavor, but regular basil works well too.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the chili flakes or curry paste to your preferred spice level.
- Thicker Sauce: Simmer the curry uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken it to your liking.
- Make Ahead: The curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American