Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

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Fragrant, creamy, and rich with Southeast Asian flair, this Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a weeknight dinner that tastes like it came straight from a cozy neighborhood bistro. With a silky coconut milk base infused with warm spices and fresh basil, it’s hard to believe how easy it is to pull off in one skillet. It’s the kind of comfort food that’s bold but not overpowering, deeply flavorful yet refreshingly light.

The magic lies in the way the coconut milk blends with garlic, ginger, and a hint of chili for heat. As the chicken simmers in this aromatic blend, it soaks in every layer of flavor, becoming incredibly tender. Served over fluffy jasmine rice and garnished with fresh herbs, this dish is a delightful balance of creaminess, heat, and bright herbal notes.

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

This recipe is a beautiful mix of exotic and comforting, combining the ease of skillet cooking with the depth of a slow-simmered curry. Whether you’re cooking for guests or looking to elevate your weekday dinner, this dish checks all the boxes: flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make. Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, making it great for a range of diets.

What Kind of Basil Should I Use?

Fresh Thai basil is the ultimate choice here. Its slightly spicy, anise-like flavor plays beautifully with the richness of the coconut milk and the kick of chili. If you can’t find Thai basil, Italian sweet basil will still provide a bright, herbal lift. Just be sure to use fresh leaves for the best aroma and taste.

Ingredients for the Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

The ingredient list is refreshingly short and includes pantry staples you may already have. What brings this recipe to life is the combination of fresh herbs, creamy coconut milk, and well-balanced spices.

• Chicken thighs
• Coconut milk
• Garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Red chili flakes
• Fish sauce
• Lime juice
• Brown sugar
• Fresh basil leaves
• Jasmine rice
• Salt and pepper
• Neutral oil (like avocado or canola)

How To Make the Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat neutral oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic and ginger. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add a pinch of red chili flakes for heat.

Step 3: Simmer in Coconut Goodness

Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir to combine, then return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 4: Add Fresh Herbs

Stir in the fresh basil leaves during the last few minutes of cooking so they wilt but stay vibrant.

Step 5: Serve Over Rice

Serve the chicken and sauce spooned generously over a bowl of hot jasmine rice. Garnish with extra basil or lime wedges if desired.

How to Serve and Store Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

This dish serves about four people generously and pairs beautifully with a side of steamed veggies or a light cucumber salad. The bold sauce naturally blends with rice, making every bite satisfying.

To store leftovers, transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce. It also freezes well for up to a month if you want to batch-cook it.

What to Serve With Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice?

Steamed Broccolini with Lemon Zest

The bitterness of broccolini balances the richness of the coconut sauce perfectly.

Thai Mango Salad

For a refreshing and fruity contrast, a crisp mango salad with peanuts is a dream pairing.

Garlic Naan or Roti

If you’re skipping rice, soak up every bit of the sauce with soft, warm naan or roti.

Cucumber Herb Salad

A chilled cucumber salad with mint and rice vinegar cools the palate and adds crunch.

Pickled Red Onions

Tangy and bright, pickled onions bring an extra punch to each forkful.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spice and creaminess of the chicken.

Chilled Coconut Water

To complete the tropical meal, sip on something light and hydrating like coconut water.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this flavor-packed coconut basil chicken, you’ll probably want to try a few more reader favorites from Luna Meals:

• Easy Chicken Fried Rice when you need a quick one-pan weeknight fix.
• Low Carb Chicken Casserole for something cozy and keto-friendly.
• Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Avgolemono with a silky citrus finish.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza if you’re craving fusion comfort food.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for indulgent date-night vibes.

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I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you go for Thai basil or use what you had on hand? Did you add extra chili for heat? Drop a comment and share your twist!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and comfort meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover new favorites to refresh your weekly rotation.

Conclusion

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a soulful meal that fuses aromatic Thai-inspired flavors with easy home cooking. From the creamy coconut sauce to the fresh basil and tender chicken, this dish is satisfying, nourishing, and made to be shared.

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