Name: Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1½ pound chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cut into small cubes); 2 tablespoon curry powder; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 1 onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (finely minced); 1 jalapeno pepper (seeded and chopped); ¼ cup fresh basil (torn roughly); 2 tablespoon olive oil; 14 ounce coconut milk (1 can); ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 86 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet quick enough for busy nights, the Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe is going to be your new best friend. This vibrant curry combines tender chicken with the creamy richness of coconut milk and the fresh, aromatic punch of basil, creating a harmony of tastes that feels both exotic and comforting. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a beautiful, fragrant meal that feels like a special treat but comes together with ease and minimal fuss. Trust me, once you make this Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw chicken pieces placed in a black frying pan with a hexagonal pattern. The chicken is spread evenly across the pan bottom as the base layer. On top of the chicken are multi-colored spices: a thick layer of bright yellow turmeric spread mainly in the center and to the right, patches of dark brown and black pepper sprinkled around, and some white salt piles scattered near the middle. The pan sits on a stove but instead of the stove surface, the background is a white marbled texture. The entire scene is shot from above. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings a unique element that layers flavor, enhances texture, or adds brightness, making the dish truly unforgettable.

1½ pound chicken breasts (boneless and skinless): Cubed for quick, even cooking and tender bites throughout your curry.
2 tablespoons curry powder: The essential spice blend creating the warm, earthy base of the curry.
½ teaspoon chili powder: Adds a subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors beautifully, so don’t skip this!
½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Gives a mild peppery kick complementing the spices.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables to perfection, lending a subtle richness.
1 onion (chopped): Provides a sweet, savory foundation as it softens and caramelizes.
3 cloves garlic (finely minced): Infuses the curry with fragrant depth and warmth.
1 jalapeno pepper (seeded and chopped): For a fresh, slightly spicy zing that adds complexity.
¼ cup fresh basil (torn roughly): The star herb that brightens every bite with its aromatic freshness.
14 ounces coconut milk (1 can): Brings creamy, smooth texture and tropical sweetness, balancing the spices.
½ cup chicken broth (low or no sodium): Adds moisture and subtle savory background without overwhelming.

How to Make Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your cubed chicken breasts and sprinkle curry powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the top. Give everything a good toss so the spices coat the chicken perfectly. Cook everything for about 5 minutes, letting the chicken brown slightly; this step locks in juices and layers that fantastic, rich flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the chicken is nicely seared, add your chopped onion to the skillet. Cook it down until it becomes translucent and tender, roughly another 5 minutes. This softens the onion, releasing its natural sweetness which beautifully balances the spices.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Jalapeno

Stir in the finely minced garlic and chopped jalapeno pepper next. Let them cook for only about 30 seconds until the garlic is aromatic—this quick step prevents burning while infusing the dish with fresh, lively flavors.

Step 4: Simmer with Coconut Milk and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and the creamy coconut milk. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes. This simmering melds the flavors while the curry thickens to a luscious sauce. Make sure to taste at this point and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil

Right before taking your curry off the heat, stir in the fresh torn basil leaves. The basil isn’t just a garnish here; it adds a burst of herbal brightness that refreshes and elevates the entire dish.

How to Serve Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe

A top view of a pan filled with golden brown chicken pieces in a rich, smooth curry sauce. The sauce has a warm yellow-orange color and a slightly thick texture. Chopped green herbs are scattered on the chicken and sauce, adding fresh green touches. A wooden spoon is partially submerged on the right side, stirring the curry. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a dark blue cloth nearby. The metal pan has a hexagonal textured inside rim and shiny silver handles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra fresh basil leaves on top for an eye-catching finish and that unmistakable herbal aroma. If you like a little crunch, toasted cashews make an excellent topping that complements the creamy curry beautifully.

Side Dishes

This curry truly shines served over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, soaking up every bit of the sauce. For a lighter option, quinoa or cauliflower rice are great alternatives that’ll keep the meal fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Coconut Basil Chicken Curry in warm coconut shells or mini bowls lined with banana leaves for an impressive tropical vibe. Pair it with colorful vegetable stir-fries or a simple cucumber salad to add crunch and a cooling contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious—if not better—than fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze the curry for up to 2 months. Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge for best texture retention.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. If the curry thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more tenderness and juiciness, making the curry even richer. Just adjust your cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level is mild to moderate thanks to the chili powder and jalapeno. You can adjust the spiciness by reducing or increasing the jalapeno amount or omitting the chili powder for a gentler version.

Can I substitute other herbs for basil?

While basil is key for the fresh flavor profile here, cilantro or mint could work in a pinch but will change the overall taste. For the authentic Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe experience, fresh basil is the way to go!

Can this curry be made dairy-free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally dairy-free due to the use of coconut milk. Just ensure any broth or additional ingredients are dairy-free to keep it suitable for your needs.

What’s the best way to serve this for meal prep?

Divide the curry into portioned containers with rice or your preferred grain stored separately. This keeps the rice from getting soggy and makes reheating quick and easy during busy weekdays.

Final Thoughts

Making the Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe is like bringing a little sunshine to your dinner table. It’s fast, flavorful, and fun to prepare, perfect for those moments when you want something comforting without spending hours cooking. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how such simple ingredients come together to create magic. Happy cooking and even happier eating!