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Discover the Magic of Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice: Your New Go-To Dinner Recipe

If you’re anything like me, the daily dinner dilemma can sometimes feel like a juggling act with too many balls in the air. Well, fear not! Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is here to save the day, promising a delightful explosion of flavors without the fuss. This dish combines the richness of coconut with the aromatic zing of basil, and I can assure you, it’s the perfect way to turn a mundane weeknight into a culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

There are so many reasons why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your weekly meal rotation. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it also transports your taste buds straight to a tropical paradise. Plus, the kids will love it (true story—my usually picky eater devoured this with a smile!). And let’s face it, we all crave those weeknight wins, right?

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Grab your grocery list and get ready to stock up on these ingredients for a dish bursting with flavor:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cups jasmine rice (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lime wedges for serving (optional, but highly recommended!)

Directions: Let’s Cook!

1. Cook the Rice: Begin by cooking your jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Set it aside when done, keeping it warm and fluffy. This will be the bed for your flavorful chicken.

2. Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in the chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, curry powder, and a sprinkle of garlic and ginger powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

3. Add Coconut Milk and Basil: Lower the heat and pour the coconut milk over the chicken. Add the fresh basil and stir everything together. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. The scents are going to bring everyone flocking to the kitchen!

4. Serve It Up: Once your chicken is perfectly coated in that creamy coconut sauce, it’s time to serve. Spoon the rice onto plates and ladle the spiced chicken over the top. A squeeze of lime juice before digging in? Yes, please!

Cooking Tips: A Little Help from Your Kitchen Buddy

• Chop-Chop: Don’t fret if your basil isn’t sliced perfectly; rustic is in, and it adds character to your dish!
• Chicken Alternatives: If chicken isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for shrimp or tofu—both work beautifully with the coconut sauce.
• Batch Cook: Making a double batch? This recipe is great for leftovers (if there are any)!

Personal Anecdote: From My Kitchen to Yours

I first discovered this marvelous mix of flavors while on a spontaneous trip to a tropical island (ah, the memories!). After I returned, I vowed to recreate that dish in my own kitchen. Fast forward to a couple of attempts, a few tweaks, and here we are! This has since become a beloved family favorite—especially during those busy weeknights when everyone is racing home.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

• Can I substitute coconut milk? Yes! You could use almond milk for a lighter version, but it won’t have the same creamy texture.

• How can I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently, and you’ll be ready to enjoy another culinary round!

• Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Bell peppers and snap peas add a nice crunch and color.

As you can see, Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is not just a dish; it’s an experience, a story, and a reason to gather around the table. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your favorite apron (or that cute one you never wear), and let’s cook up some joy together!

Be sure to check out more of our delightful recipes, like these cozy bakes or refreshing summer salads, perfect to complement your culinary escapades.

Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Give this recipe a try, and let it whisk you away to a flavor-filled oasis. Your taste buds will thank you!

Meta Description: Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is the perfect recipe for busy nights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal!

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

A quick and flavorful dish that combines chicken, coconut milk, and basil, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Tropical

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz)
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cups jasmine rice (uncooked)

Seasonings and Cooking Aids

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• to taste Salt and pepper

For Serving (optional)

• Lime wedges for serving Highly recommended!

Method

 

Cooking the Rice

1. Begin by cooking your jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Set it aside when done, keeping it warm and fluffy.

Sautéing the Chicken

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil.
2. Once hot, toss in the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, curry powder, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Finishing the Dish

1. Lower the heat and pour the coconut milk over the chicken.
2. Add the fresh basil and stir everything together. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
3. Once the chicken is coated in the creamy coconut sauce, serve it over the rice.
4. A squeeze of lime juice before digging in is highly recommended!

Notes

For chicken alternatives, you can swap it out for shrimp or tofu. This recipe is great for leftovers; just store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.