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Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce
Laura

Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce

Creamy Coconut Basil Curry with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh basil in a rich coconut milk sauce. Ready in 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne for heat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 medium red onion finely diced
  • 1-2 jalapeño peppers seeded and minced
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 14 oz full-fat coconut milk 1 can
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil or regular basil torn
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Cooked jasmine rice for serving

Equipment

  • large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken pieces with curry powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let sit for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate.
  3. Add remaining oil to the pan with diced onion and jalapeño. Cook 3-4 minutes until onion softens. Add minced garlic and ginger, stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Whisk together coconut milk, chicken broth, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour into skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 5-6 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Return chicken to the pan with any juices. Stir to coat in sauce and simmer 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and lime juice.
  6. Serve immediately over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with extra basil if desired.

Notes

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture
  • Fresh basil is essential - dried won't provide the same bright flavor
  • Adjust heat by adding more jalapeños or cayenne to taste
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors develop