Description
Say hello to your new go-to for a flavorful and fast weeknight dinner. This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice blends creamy coconut milk, zesty aromatics, and fresh basil into a cozy yet bold meal that satisfies with every bite. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s both elegant enough for guests and simple enough for everyday cooking. Whether you’re craving quick dinner ideas, creamy comfort food, or easy recipes with chicken, this dish checks all the boxes. Ideal for meal prep, family meals, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
1½ pounds chicken breast or thighs, diced
1 tablespoon oil (olive or coconut)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 cup fresh basil, chopped
3 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
5. Pour in coconut milk and soy sauce, then add red pepper flakes.
6. Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
7. Turn off heat and stir in chopped basil.
8. Serve over a bed of warm cooked rice.
9. Garnish with extra basil or chili flakes if desired.
10. Enjoy!
Notes
For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce while simmering.
If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, stir in a splash of coconut milk to loosen it.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: easy chicken recipe, coconut milk chicken, weeknight dinner, creamy chicken, spicy chicken recipe