Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is a simple, comforting dish with a rich coconut sauce and fresh basil.

introduction – Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

This Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice is easy and tasty for weeknights or guests.
The sauce is smooth and the basil adds bright flavor to the coconut and chicken.
If you like creamy meals, try a similar comfort bowl like creamy wild rice and mushroom soup for another cozy option.

why make this recipe – Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Make this Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice because it is quick, filling, and uses few ingredients.
It pairs well with rice and many simple sides, giving you a complete meal without much fuss.
Fans of warm, spiced chicken dishes may also enjoy this curried chicken lentil and rice soup with spinach for variety.

how to make Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

To make Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice, cook rice first and then make the coconut basil chicken in one skillet.
The coconut milk makes a light, creamy sauce while fresh basil keeps it bright.
Cooking with coconut and herbs is a nice match, similar to cod celery and potato stew with coconut and herbs in flavor style.

Ingredients : Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cups rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions : Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

• 1. In a pot, cook the rice according to package instructions.
• 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
• 3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides.
• 4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
• 5. Stir in the fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
• 6. Cover and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• 7. Serve the chicken and sauce over the rice.

how to serve Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Serve Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice hot over steamed rice.
Garnish with extra basil leaves and a squeeze of lime if you like a bright touch.
Add a side salad or simple steamed veggies for color and crunch.

how to store Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Cool the chicken and rice to room temperature before storing.
Place in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

tips to make Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

• Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer sauce.
• Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for even cooking.
• Add basil at the end to keep its fresh flavor.
• For a citrus lift, add a splash of lime juice before serving.
• If you want a different grain, try serving over couscous or quinoa like in some rice-and-pita meals such as Egyptian beef with pita and rice.

variation (if any) – Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

• Make it spicy: add red pepper flakes or a diced chili.
• Make it lighter: use light coconut milk and skinless chicken.
• Make it vegetarian: replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and simmer until heated.

FAQs – Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Chicken thighs stay moist and work well with the coconut sauce. Cook until fully done.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cook and cool, then store in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q: What tool helps cook rice evenly?
A: A good rice cooker is handy for consistent rice. Buy it here

Q: Is fresh basil required or can I use dried basil?
A: Fresh basil is best for bright flavor. Dried basil can be used but add less and add earlier in cooking.

Creamy Coconut Basil Chicken with Rice

A simple and comforting dish featuring a rich coconut sauce and fresh basil, perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Asian, Comfort Food

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the chicken

• 4 pieces chicken breasts Pounded to even thickness for even cooking.
• 1 can coconut milk Use full-fat for a richer sauce.
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves Add at the end to keep its fresh flavor.
• 2 cups rice Cook according to package instructions.
• 1 piece onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.

Instructions

 

Cooking Rice

• In a pot, cook the rice according to package instructions.

Cooking Chicken

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
• Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides.
• Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
• Stir in the fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
• Cover and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Serve the chicken and sauce over the rice.

Notes

Serve hot over steamed rice. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a squeeze of lime for a bright touch. Add a side salad or simple steamed veggies for color and crunch. Store cooled chicken and rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Keyword Basil Chicken, Coconut Chicken, Comfort Food, Creamy Chicken, Easy Dinner