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Basil Chicken Coconut Curry: A Flavorful Recipe for a Quick Dinner


  • Author: Lily
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Basil Chicken Coconut Curry features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Served over jasmine rice, it’s a comforting dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
  2. In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces.
  4. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage.
  5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  6. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  7. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  8. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
  9. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring well to combine.
  10. Add the fish sauce and brown sugar, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
  11. Return the chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the curry base.
  12. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for about 10 minutes.
  13. Add the sliced red bell pepper and green beans, simmering for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  14. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil leaves and lime juice.
  15. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
  16. Let the curry sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  17. Spoon a generous portion of jasmine rice onto each plate.
  18. Top with a hearty serving of the basil chicken coconut curry, including plenty of sauce and vegetables.
  19. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
  • For a spicier curry, add more red curry paste or some sliced chili peppers.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes