Name: Delicious Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice in One Pan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Boneless Chicken Thighs (Juicy and tender backbone of the dish.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Coconut Oil (For searing the chicken.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Adds sweet depth to the sauce.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced for aromatic qualities.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Grated for a zesty note.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Provides earthy depth.); 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder (Gives color and nutrition.); 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes (Adjust based on spice tolerance.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances all flavors.); 1 can Full-Fat Coconut Milk (Best consistency for sauce.); 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (Aromatic and fresh.); 3 cups Jasmine Rice (Cooked; absorbs sauce flavors.)

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When the thought of another rushed meal from a fast-food joint crossed my mind, it hit me—I craved something rich in flavor yet simple to prepare. That’s when I stumbled upon my new favorite: Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice. This one-pan wonder is a symphony of creamy coconut milk, fragrant basil, and a delightful medley of spices that transport you to the heart of Southeast Asia with every bite.

Imagine the aroma of garlic mingling with the warmth of ginger as it fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy haven. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have a delicious, gluten-free and dairy-free dinner on the table that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend treat, this dish not only offers convenience but also a comforting, creamy texture that keeps you coming back for more. Let’s dive into creating this aromatic masterpiece that’s sure to impress both family and friends!

Why is Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice a Must-Try?

Rich, Creamy Delight: This one-pan dish combines creamy coconut milk with aromatic spices to create a fully satisfying, flavor-packed meal.
Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a complete dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Health-Conscious Option: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal without compromising on taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The balance of warm spices and fresh basil makes it a hit with family and friends, bringing everyone to the table.
Versatile Protein Choice: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, making it adaptable for various preferences.
For more culinary inspiration, check out our easy one-pan meals to expand your weeknight dining repertoire!

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken Ingredients

• Dive into the vibrant flavors of this one-pan meal!

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – The juicy, tender backbone of this dish; boneless speeds up cooking.

For the Sauce
• Olive Oil or Coconut Oil – Searing fat that enhances flavor and richness.
• Yellow Onion – Adds a sweet depth to the sauce, caramelizing beautifully.
• Garlic – Minced for its aromatic qualities; don’t skip this for that essential flavor boost.
• Fresh Ginger – Grated to infuse warmth; elevates the dish with zesty notes.
• Ground Cumin – Provides an earthy depth; no direct substitute but other spices can bring warmth.
• Turmeric Powder – Gives color and nutrition; curry powder makes for an interesting swap.
• Chili Flakes – The heat you crave; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• Salt – The essential seasoning to enhance all flavors in the dish.
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk (13.5 oz can) – The creamy heart of the sauce; avoid lighter versions for the best consistency.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – Aromatically fresh; can easily switch with cilantro if you prefer.

For the Serving
• Jasmine Rice (cooked, 3 cups) – This fluffy base absorbs all the delicious sauce flavors; always make extra if you love it!

How to Make Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Season & Sear: Begin by generously seasoning the chicken thighs with salt. Heat olive or coconut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped yellow onion and sauté until soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant—about another minute.
Add Spices: Stir in ground cumin, turmeric powder, and chili flakes. Cook for 30 seconds to allow the spices to bloom and enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
Combine with Coconut Milk: Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, stirring well to combine with the spices and aromatics. Bring to a gentle simmer, then return the chicken to the pan and cover. Cook until the chicken is tender, about 15 minutes.
Incorporate Basil: Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in chopped fresh basil leaves off the heat. Let the dish rest for a few minutes to meld those glorious flavors together.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the spiced chicken over warm jasmine rice, making sure to spoon that luscious coconut sauce on top. Garnish with additional basil for a beautiful finish!

Optional: For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice?

This aromatic dish deserves delightful pairings to create a wholesome, satisfying meal experience.

Crisp Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a sesame dressing adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy chicken dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli brings a burst of color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the coconut sauce beautifully.
Coconut Rice: For an extra touch of coconut flavor, serve jasmine rice cooked with a splash of coconut milk; it perfectly harmonizes with the main dish.
Pickled Vegetables: A side of tangy pickled vegetables provides a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavors and cutting through the creaminess.
Mango Chutney: This sweet and spicy addition can elevate the dish with its tropical flavors, complementing the dish’s Asian fusion essence.
Chili Lime Quinoa: A light, zesty quinoa salad tossed with lime, cilantro, and chili flakes offers a nutritious, grainy component that pairs well with the saucy chicken.
Coconut Milk Ice Cream: For dessert, indulge in a scoop of creamy coconut milk ice cream to mirror the flavors of the main dish while providing a cool, sweet finish.

These pairings will not only enhance your dining experience but elevate your meal to a delightful feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to lock in flavor. Additionally, the aromatic sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it separately, ensuring the ingredients remain fresh and prevent unwanted sogginess. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce and chicken together on the stovetop until heated through, then stir in the fresh basil right before serving. This method keeps the dish just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken

Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Opt for full-fat coconut milk to achieve a rich, creamy sauce. Lighter versions can lead to a thin texture that lacks flavor.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with fewer chili flakes. You can always add more to customize the spice level in your Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken.
Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. This guarantees food safety and juicy, tender meat.
Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting period will meld the flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. This variation not only accommodates different dietary needs but also adds a unique twist.

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and adaptations that can truly elevate your Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken!

Seafood Swap: Substitute chicken thighs with shrimp or fish, cooking until tender for a lighter protein option.
Plant-Based Delight: For a vegan version, replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinated in the sauce for enhanced flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Add vibrant veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during cooking to increase nutrition and color. They lend a lovely crunch and freshness.
Heat Adjustment: Modify the amount of chili flakes to either dial up the heat for a spicy kick or tone it down for a milder flavor, accommodating everyone’s palate.
Herb Variation: Instead of basil, experiment with fresh cilantro or mint for a completely different aromatic experience that brightens the dish.
Coconut Milk Alternatives: While full-fat coconut milk is ideal, you could use coconut cream for an extra indulgent, creamy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
Curried Twist: Incorporate curry powder instead of turmeric for a more complex flavor with earthy undertones that complement the dish beautifully.
Nutty Finish: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or slivered almonds on top before serving to add a delightful crunch and enhance the dish’s nutty undertones.

Let your creativity shine in the kitchen and personalize this recipe to suit your family’s tastes!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and delicious while ensuring food safety.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce, ensuring the Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken remains creamy and flavorful.

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh basil leaves that are vibrant green and fragrant. Chicken thighs should be firm to the touch and have a pink color without any dark spots or discoloration. For the ginger, pick a plump, smooth piece with a spicy scent. And when selecting your coconut milk, go for full-fat, ensuring it’s in a well-sealed can without any dents or rust.

What’s the best way to store leftover Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken?
Very good question! After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. To avoid spoilage, be sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing the container to keep the flavors intact.

Can I freeze Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice?
Of course! For freezing, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will keep well for up to a month. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to bring back that creamy consistency.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If you find your sauce runs a bit thin, no worries! Let it simmer uncovered over low heat for a few minutes to allow it to thicken up. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water, then stir it into the sauce, allowing it to cook for an additional minute or so. This will help thicken it nicely. Always taste first and adjust with extra spices if needed!

Is this dish safe for anyone with allergies?
Yes! This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a wonderful choice for various dietary preferences. Just double-check your coconut milk brand to ensure it’s dairy-free. Also, if you have a nut allergy, avoid using coconut oil as a substitute in the future. Other oils like olive oil work just as well without risk.