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Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice
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Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a quick and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender chicken simmered in creamy coconut milk, fresh basil, and a warming blend of spices served over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. Ready in 30 minutes, this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces

Herbs & Aromatics

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced

Spices

  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Liquids & Oils

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
  • Juice of 1 fresh lime

Grains

  • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to ensure fluffiness. Cook according to package instructions, using jasmine or basmati rice for the best aroma.
  2. Sauté aromatics and spices: Heat olive or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, stirring until translucent and fragrant. Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder, toasting briefly to release their oils and enhance flavors.
  3. Cook the chicken: Add chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Sear on all sides until lightly golden but not fully cooked through.
  4. Add coconut milk and simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine with the chicken and spices. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Finish with fresh basil and lime: Just before serving, stir in fresh basil leaves and squeeze in lime juice to brighten and freshen the dish.
  6. Plate and serve: Serve the chicken and sauce over the cooked rice, spooning generous amounts of the spiced coconut sauce on top for maximum flavor.

Notes

  • Use freshly ground spices for the most vibrant flavors.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
  • Simmer coconut milk gently to avoid curdling.
  • Add fresh basil at the end to maintain its bright aroma and flavor.
  • Allow chicken to rest in the sauce off the heat for a few minutes to deepen flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spiced chicken, coconut milk, basil, quick dinner, one-pot meal, gluten-free, easy weeknight recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/spiced-coconut-basil-chicken-with-rice/