Description
A heartwarming and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy coconut, aromatic spices, and fresh basil. Perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 600g boneless chicken thighs or breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
- 400ml canned coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar or honey
- 1 small red chili, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Zest of 1 lime
- Additional salt to taste
- 2 cups basmati or jasmine rice
- 4 cups water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter
- Optional: 1 bay leaf or cinnamon stick for aromatic rice
- Fresh basil sprigs, Lime wedges, Sliced red chilies, Toasted coconut flakes, Crispy shallots for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, salt, and oil. Bring to a boil, reduce to low simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let steam for another 5 minutes, fluff with fork.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Season and Simmer: Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in spices and stir to coat. Add tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Add lime juice and coconut milk, stirring to deglaze the pan. Add brown sugar and sliced chili. Let simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in basil and lime zest, allowing basil to wilt. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve it Up: Plate rice and spoon spiced coconut basil chicken on top or beside. Garnish with basil, lime wedges, and toppings.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh ingredients. This dish can be made ahead and is ideal for freezing.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg