Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice

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Creamy, spicy, and rich in flavor — Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice is a vibrant dish that balances heat, herbs, and comfort all in one bowl. Tender chunks of chicken are simmered in a velvety coconut milk sauce, infused with garlic, ginger, crushed red pepper, and fragrant Thai basil. The result is a deeply satisfying, spoon-coating curry-like dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, it’s the kind of weeknight dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen — even though it comes together in under 45 minutes.

What truly makes this recipe special is the fusion of Southeast Asian warmth and homestyle comfort. The coconut milk creates a creamy base that mellows the spices without dulling their punch, while the fresh basil adds a peppery, slightly sweet bite that lifts the whole dish. This is one of those meals you’ll crave over and over again — whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests with something a little different yet incredibly easy to love.

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

• Ready in under 45 minutes – Quick enough for busy weeknights.
• One pan simplicity – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
• Creamy & spicy – The perfect balance of bold and smooth.
• Customizable heat – Adjust the chili flakes to your spice preference.
• Aromatic freshness – Basil brightens the whole dish.
• Great leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

Before diving into the cooking, make sure your kitchen is prepped with the right tools to make this Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice a seamless experience.

Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board

You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife to cube the chicken evenly and finely chop the garlic, ginger, and basil. A stable cutting board ensures safety and efficiency during prep.

Large Non-Stick or Stainless Steel Skillet

This dish simmers best in a wide skillet that can handle the sauce and chicken without overcrowding. A heavy-bottomed pan distributes heat evenly and reduces the risk of burning the coconut milk.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula

Ideal for stirring the sauce and scraping up those flavorful bits that stick to the pan. It also helps avoid scratching non-stick surfaces.

Mixing Bowls

Helpful for marinating the chicken or organizing your prepped ingredients, which speeds up the cooking process.

Rice Cooker or Saucepan with Lid

Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice is the base for this meal. A rice cooker makes it foolproof, but a basic saucepan with a lid will do just fine.

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Preparation Tips

• Use room temperature chicken: Cold chicken straight from the fridge can seize and cook unevenly. Let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Chop everything before starting: This recipe moves fast once the heat hits the pan, so have all your aromatics, herbs, and sauce ingredients ready to go.
• Coconut milk matters: Go for full-fat coconut milk — it adds richness and body to the sauce that lite versions can’t match.
• Fresh basil is key: Thai basil offers a slightly spicier, more anise-like flavor than sweet basil, but either can be used. Always add it at the end to preserve its aroma and texture.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the coconut milk. Let it simmer low and slow to prevent curdling and to help the flavors deepen.

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Ingredients for Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this aromatic and comforting dish to life. The ingredients are straightforward, but together they create bold, layered flavors.

For the Chicken & Sauce:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp curry powder (optional for extra depth)
• 1 ½ cups full-fat coconut milk (shake the can well before opening)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced thinly (Thai basil preferred)

For Serving:

• 3 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• Additional chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh basil, finely chopped (for garnish)

Tip: You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or snow peas if you want to boost the nutritional profile and color of the dish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice

Let’s break this flavorful dish down into simple, manageable steps — from prepping your ingredients to layering in the bold, creamy, and spicy flavors.

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Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start cooking your jasmine or basmati rice according to package instructions. While it simmers, move on to prepping the chicken and sauce. This way, everything finishes at the same time.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or coconut oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sear for 5–6 minutes until golden on the outside and nearly cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add a touch more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant — don’t let them burn.

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Step 4: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the red chili flakes, ground coriander, and curry powder (if using). Stir constantly for another 30 seconds to bloom the spices and enhance their flavor.

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Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk and stir well to combine with the spices. Add soy sauce and lime juice. Simmer gently over medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

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Step 6: Return Chicken to the Skillet

Add the seared chicken back into the pan. Stir to coat every piece in the coconut sauce. Let it simmer uncovered for 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

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Step 7: Add Fresh Basil

Right at the end, stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving a small amount for garnish. Turn off the heat — this keeps the basil vibrant and flavorful without overcooking it.

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Step 8: Plate and Serve

Spoon generous portions of the creamy coconut basil chicken over warm rice. Garnish with the remaining basil and a pinch of extra chili flakes if desired.

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You’ve just created a rich, savory, and herbaceous dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Time to dig in!

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Notes

• Full-fat coconut milk is non-negotiable: It brings the creaminess and richness that makes this dish so satisfying. Lite versions may leave the sauce watery.
• Thai basil vs. sweet basil: While sweet basil works well, Thai basil adds a unique, spicy-sweet flavor that elevates the dish. Use it if you can find it.
• Customize the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce or skip the chili flakes. If you love it hot, try adding a fresh chili or chili paste for extra fire.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if left simmering too long. Once the sauce thickens and the chicken is just cooked through, turn off the heat.

2. Boiling the Coconut Milk

High heat can cause coconut milk to split or curdle. Keep it to a gentle simmer to maintain that silky texture.

3. Adding Basil Too Early

Cooking basil too long dulls its bright flavor and color. Always add it at the very end for maximum impact.

4. Not Shaking the Coconut Milk Can

The fat and water can separate in the can. Shake it well before opening to ensure a smooth, even sauce.

5. Skipping Aromatics

Garlic and ginger form the base of flavor here. Don’t rush or skip them — sauté just until fragrant to build depth without bitterness.

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Avoiding these common mistakes ensures your Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice turns out silky, flavorful, and perfectly balanced every time.

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What to Serve With Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice?

While this dish is complete on its own, adding a side or two can elevate your dinner table and provide contrast to the creamy, spiced richness of the main course.

8 Delicious Pairings:

1. Cucumber Salad with Lime & Mint
   A crisp, cooling salad to balance the heat and creaminess of the dish.
2. Garlic Roasted Broccolini
   Adds a slightly bitter, charred contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich coconut sauce.
3. Vietnamese Pickled Carrots & Daikon
   Tart and crunchy — these pickles offer a sharp contrast to the soft textures.
4. Steamed Edamame with Sea Salt
   Light and protein-packed, edamame is a great finger-food side.
5. Mango Chutney or Fresh Mango Slices
   A sweet touch to offset the spice — mango is a perfect tropical pairing.
6. Grilled Flatbread or Roti
   Great for scooping up every last drop of that coconut basil sauce.
7. Thai Papaya Salad (Som Tam)
   Bright, crunchy, and spicy-sour — it brings texture and zing to the plate.
8. Lemongrass Soup (Tom Yum or Tom Kha)
   A light, tangy soup starter to warm the palate before the rich main course.

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Whether you’re going for light and fresh or bold and flavorful, these sides complement the Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice beautifully — making your meal even more memorable.

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Storage Instructions

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice stores incredibly well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers the next day.

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the chicken and rice in separate containers if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing:

You can freeze the chicken and sauce (without the rice) for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips:

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (chicken + rice)

Nutrition will vary slightly based on exact ingredients used and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?

Yes — it already is! This dish uses coconut milk (not dairy) and soy sauce or tamari. Just use tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a completely gluten-free option.

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2. What type of basil works best?

Thai basil is ideal because of its peppery, slightly licorice-like flavor, but sweet basil works just fine if that’s what you have on hand.

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3. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely. Try shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly — shrimp cooks faster, while tofu benefits from being pan-fried first.

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4. What’s the best rice to serve with this?

Jasmine rice is the top choice for its fragrance and light texture, but basmati or even brown rice works well too.

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5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, snap peas, or even mushrooms are great additions. Add them in Step 6, depending on how tender you want them.

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6. How spicy is this dish?

Moderately spicy — thanks to the red chili flakes. You can reduce or omit them for a milder version, or add more for a real kick.

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7. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and in fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Perfect for meal prep or cooking in advance for a dinner party.

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8. Is it okay to use light coconut milk?

You can, but expect a thinner sauce and less richness. Full-fat coconut milk gives the best texture and flavor, especially in creamy, spice-forward dishes like this one.

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Conclusion

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice is one of those rare dishes that checks every box — it’s quick, satisfying, full of bold flavor, and customizable to your needs. Whether you’re seeking a cozy weeknight dinner or planning something special, this dish delivers. With its creamy coconut sauce, fragrant basil, and comforting rice base, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.

Ready to cook something unforgettable? This one’s calling your name.

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