Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce is a deliciously easy recipe that brings vibrant flavors together in a creamy, comforting dish. The tender chicken simmers in a fragrant coconut curry sauce with fresh basil for a quick meal prep favorite. This made-from-scratch recipe uses pantry staples and simple ingredients, making it beginner-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights. Pair it with my healthy peanut butter Greek yogurt cookies for a delightful meal and dessert combo.
Why You'll Love Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce – Easy Homemade Flavorful Dinner
Try this Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce recipe for an easy, flavorful, and quick weeknight dinner that’s family-friendly and packed with rich, creamy goodness.
- Quick and easy recipe ready in under 40 minutes.
- Rich, creamy coconut curry sauce with fresh basil adds exciting flavor.
- Uses simple pantry staples and fresh herbs for authentic taste.
- Perfect for beginner cooks and family-friendly meals.
Ingredients for Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce – Easy Homemade Flavorful Dinner
Chicken: Thighs remain juicier; breasts can be used for leaner option.Red curry paste: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra flavor.
- Chicken: Thighs remain juicier; breasts can be used for leaner option.
- Red curry paste: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra flavor.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce – Easy Homemade Flavorful Dinner are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce – Easy Homemade Flavorful Dinner
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Prepare the chicken and aromatics: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop onion, mince garlic, and grate ginger.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Add curry paste and chicken: Stir in red curry paste and turmeric, cooking for 1 minute. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
Expert Tips for Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce – Easy Homemade Flavorful Dinner
- Use fresh basil for vibrant flavor; add it last for maximum aroma.
- Brown chicken well to develop deeper flavors and better texture.
- Adjust the heat level by using more or less red curry paste.
Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce – Easy Homemade Flavorful Dinner
Try this Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce recipe for an easy, flavorful, and quick weeknight dinner that’s family-friendly and packed with rich, creamy goodness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Chopped peanuts or cashews
- Extra fresh basil leaves
- Fresh lime wedges
- Cooked jasmine or basmati rice (for serving)
Instructions
How to Make Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce
- Prepare the chicken and aromatics: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop onion, mince garlic, and grate ginger.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add curry paste and chicken: Stir in red curry paste and turmeric, cooking for 1 minute. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer with coconut milk: Pour in coconut milk, add fish sauce and brown sugar. Stir and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish with basil: Stir in fresh basil leaves just before serving. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
- Serve: Spoon over cooked rice and garnish with nuts and lime wedges if desired.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce – Easy Homemade Flavorful Dinner FAQs
Yes! This dish actually tastes better after the flavors meld, so prepare it a day ahead and reheat before serving.
You can use soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian/vegan option and to keep it allergen-friendly.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Overcooking chicken breasts can dry them out; chicken thighs are less likely to dry out and stay moist.
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Before You Go
If you try this Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce – Easy Homemade Flavorful Dinner, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.