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Flavorful Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken

spiced coconut basil chicken - featured image

A rich and aromatic dish combining creamy coconut milk, fresh basil, and warm spices for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk, unsweetened
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop the basil leaves. Set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
  3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  5. Reduce heat to low and add the spices (cumin, turmeric, coriander, paprika). Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  6. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  8. Remove the lid and add the chopped basil leaves. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes.
  9. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and serve hot.

Notes

[‘Toast the spices in oil to release their full flavor.’, ‘Use fresh basil for the best flavor.’, ‘Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing chili flakes.’, ‘Serve with jasmine rice, naan bread, or quinoa.’, ‘Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: coconut chicken, basil chicken, spiced chicken, Thai chicken, easy dinner recipe