Savory Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce for Busy Nights

This Basil Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce is a family-friendly dish that combines creamy texture with mild spices, perfect for busy nights.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Chicken

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast halves Ideal protein providing heartiness; replace with shrimp or firm tofu.

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons curry powder Infuses warmth and complexity; adjust for milder or spicier flavors.
1 can coconut milk Regular or light, serves as the creamy base of the sauce.
1/2 cup cream Adds richness, use half and half or milk for a lighter sauce.
2 tablespoons cornstarch Thickens the sauce for a luxurious texture.

For Seasoning

1 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon pepper Adds seasoning and heat.
1/2 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to taste or omit for milder flavor.

For Aromatics

1 medium red onion Contributes sweetness when sautéed.
3 cloves garlic Provides aromatic flavor.
1 medium jalapeno pepper Offers a spicy kick; omit for non-spicy.
1 teaspoon dried basil Adds herbal freshness.
1 teaspoon ground ginger Introduces warmth.

For Cooking

2 tablespoons olive oil Preferred fat for sautéing.

For Serving

4 cups hot cooked rice Essential base to soak up the sauce.

Equipment

Nonstick frying pan
Mixing bowl

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the chicken: Combine chicken with curry powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil, sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeno for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add dried basil and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.
Cook the chicken: Add marinated chicken, ensuring even cooking for about 5-6 minutes.
Create the sauce: Whisk together coconut milk, cream, and cornstarch, then pour into the skillet with chicken, stirring continuously.
Thicken the sauce: Cook on low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and bubbles, about 5-10 minutes.
Serve and garnish: Serve the chicken over rice and garnish with fresh basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, marinate chicken for at least one hour. Adjust spices to personal preference for heat.

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