Why You’ll Love This Basil Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare, you’ll love this Basil Chicken recipe. It combines aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, creating a delightful explosion of taste in every bite.
I appreciate how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy coconut milk adds a rich texture, while the basil infuses a fresh, vibrant note.
Plus, it’s versatile—serve it over rice or with your favorite side. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. It’s that good!
You’ll want to share it with everyone.
Ingredients of Basil Chicken
When it comes to making Basil Chicken, the secret truly lies in the ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in crafting that rich, aromatic flavor we all love. From the spices that warm your heart to the fresh basil that brightens the dish, you’ll find yourself savoring every bite.
So, let’s gather what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious meal; trust me, having everything prepped will make cooking a breeze.
Here’s what you’ll need for your Basil Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 1 pound)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon clove
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (14 ounce) can unsweetened coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped gingerroot
- Hot steamed rice for serving
As you gather these ingredients, consider a few things. Fresh spices can make a world of difference, so if you have the option, opt for whole spices that you can grind yourself. The aroma alone is worth it.
And don’t shy away from adjusting the heat level based on your preference; those jalapeños can pack a punch, but you can always leave them out or reduce the quantity if you’re cooking for the kiddos—or for your own sensitive taste buds.
Finally, fresh basil is non-negotiable here; it adds that vibrant flavor that truly defines this dish. Trust me, the more fresh ingredients you use, the more you’ll enjoy the final product.
How to Make Basil Chicken
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of making Basil Chicken. First things first, you want to grab your 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
Now, let’s get those spices dancing! In a large zip-closure bag, toss in 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom, cinnamon, clove, coriander, cumin, and fresh ground black pepper. Yes, it sounds like a lot, but trust me, this is where the magic happens.
Add in 1/4 teaspoon each of turmeric and chili powder, seal that bag, and shake it like you’re trying to wake up a sleepy cat. Once everything is nicely coated, let the chicken chill in the fridge for about an hour. This gives those flavors a chance to mingle and become best friends.
While your chicken is taking a little flavor nap, it’s time to prepare your aromatics. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Toss in that chopped onion (1 large), minced garlic (5 cloves), and the finely chopped jalapeño peppers (2 fresh) you prepped earlier.
Stir that mixture around for about 5 minutes until everything is soft and fragrant. It’s like a party for your nose. Once it’s done, scoop it out of the pan and set it aside, but don’t wash the pan just yet; we want all those lovely bits left in there.
Now, it’s time to cook the chicken. Add half of your spiced chicken to the pan and stir-fry it for about 2 to 3 minutes until it’s tender and no longer pink. Set it aside, repeat with the other half (remember to add a little more oil if needed), and then return all the chicken to the pan.
Now, here comes the creamy goodness. In a small bowl, mix together 1 (14 ounce) can of unsweetened coconut milk and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. Pour that luscious mixture into the frying pan and cook, stirring until it’s bubbly and starting to thicken.
This is when you can feel like a culinary wizard; it’s so satisfying. Toss back in your chicken and that onion mix, stir in 3 tablespoons of minced fresh basil and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped gingerroot, and let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes until it’s hot throughout.
Just imagine the aroma filling your kitchen; it’s enough to make you forget about the dishes waiting in the sink. Serve this delightful dish over hot steamed rice, and there you have it—a bowl of Basil Chicken that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress anyone at the table, even if it’s just you and your favorite takeout container. Enjoy!
Basil Chicken Substitutions & Variations
While I love the traditional flavors of Basil Chicken, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate that can suit different tastes and dietary needs.
For a lighter option, I sometimes use skinless turkey breast instead of chicken. If I want a vegetarian twist, firm tofu works beautifully!
You can also swap out coconut milk for almond or cashew milk for a nutty flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can replace basil, and adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach adds color and nutrition.
Experiment with spices, too; a pinch of smoked paprika can give it an exciting kick!
Additional Tips & Notes
Experimenting with substitutions and variations can lead to delightful discoveries in your Basil Chicken dish.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels based on your heat tolerance; add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
Fresh basil is key, but if you’re out, try using dried herbs or even cilantro for a different twist.
For added creaminess, consider stirring in a splash of lime juice or a dollop of yogurt before serving.
Finally, serve your dish with a side of sautéed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal that complements the flavors beautifully!