Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?

Absolutely! Light coconut milk will create a thinner sauce with fewer calories. If you prefer a richer texture, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the simmering stage to thicken it.

What can I substitute for jalapeño if I don't want the dish to be spicy?

You can simply omit the jalapeño or replace it with a bell pepper for the vegetal flavor without the heat. Alternatively, use the jalapeño but remove all seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil really makes this dish special, but in a pinch, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Add it earlier in the cooking process, along with the liquids, to allow it time to hydrate and release its flavors.

Is this curry gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your curry powder and chicken broth labels to ensure they don't contain hidden gluten ingredients or processing aids.

Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe

Name: Coconut Basil Chicken Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai-inspired
Ingredients: 1½ pound chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into small cubes (2-3 pieces depending on size); 2 tablespoon curry powder; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste; 2 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped; ¼ cup fresh basil, torn roughly; 14 ounce (1 can) coconut milk; ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

This vibrant Coconut Basil Chicken Curry brings together the richness of coconut milk, aromatic curry spices, and fresh basil for a flavor explosion that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The tender chicken pieces swim in a silky, fragrant sauce that’s perfect for pouring over fluffy rice. This simple yet sophisticated dish delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Satisfying: From prep to plate in just 30 minutes, this curry delivers big flavor without keeping you in the kitchen all evening.
Perfectly Balanced: The creamy coconut milk mellows the spices while the fresh basil adds brightness, creating a harmonious blend that’s incredibly satisfying.
Versatile Base: This curry welcomes customization—add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to make it uniquely yours.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken breasts: Provides lean protein and absorbs all the wonderful curry flavors. Cut into small, even pieces for quick cooking.
Curry powder: The star seasoning that gives this dish its identity. Use a quality curry powder for the best flavor profile.
Chili powder: Adds a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, adding a subtle fruity note.
Onion: Creates a flavor foundation for the curry and adds natural sweetness as it cooks down.
Garlic: Provides that essential aromatic punch that makes curry so irresistible.
Jalapeño pepper: Brings a fresh, bright heat that complements the curry spices beautifully.
Fresh basil: The secret ingredient that elevates this curry from good to exceptional with its aromatic, slightly sweet notes.
Coconut milk: Creates the luxuriously creamy sauce that defines this curry. Use full-fat for the richest texture.
Chicken broth: Adds depth while thinning the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that tie all the flavors together.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Protein Options

Swap the chicken for shrimp (cook for less time), firm tofu (for a vegetarian version), or even beef strips for a completely different yet equally delicious curry.

Veggie-Packed Version

Add bell peppers, snow peas, spinach, or cauliflower in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a more substantial, nutritious meal.

Herb Alternatives

If basil isn’t available, try cilantro or a combination of mint and cilantro for a different but complementary flavor profile.

Spice Adjustments

For a more complex flavor, add a teaspoon of garam masala along with the curry powder, or include a cinnamon stick during simmering.

How to Make Coconut Basil Chicken Curry

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and sprinkle with curry powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat and cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken begins to brown on the outside.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño, cooking for just 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Curry Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken and the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the fresh torn basil just before removing from heat. Serve warm over steamed rice.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Prep Before Cooking: Have all ingredients measured, chopped, and ready before starting to cook. This curry comes together quickly!
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cut pieces uniformly and cook just until they start to brown before adding onions. They’ll continue cooking in the sauce, ensuring they stay tender.
Basil Timing: Add the basil at the very end to preserve its vibrant color and fresh flavor. The residual heat will release its oils without wilting it completely.
Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. For a thinner sauce, add a splash more broth.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve this curry over jasmine rice or basmati rice to absorb the delicious sauce. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice works beautifully.

Side Dishes

A simple cucumber salad with lime dressing makes a refreshing counterpoint to the rich curry. Warm naan bread is perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

Garnishes

Top with additional fresh basil, thinly sliced red chilies for color and heat, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day as they have time to meld.

Freezing

This curry freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?

Absolutely! Light coconut milk will create a thinner sauce with fewer calories. If you prefer a richer texture, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the simmering stage to thicken it.
What can I substitute for jalapeño if I don’t want the dish to be spicy?

You can simply omit the jalapeño or replace it with a bell pepper for the vegetal flavor without the heat. Alternatively, use the jalapeño but remove all seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil really makes this dish special, but in a pinch, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Add it earlier in the cooking process, along with the liquids, to allow it time to hydrate and release its flavors.
Is this curry gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your curry powder and chicken broth labels to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten ingredients or processing aids.

Final Thoughts

This Coconut Basil Chicken Curry brings a taste of global cuisine right to your kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of creamy coconut, warming spices, and fresh basil creates a memorable meal that feels special despite being so simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner, this curry hits all the right notes. Give it a try tonight—I bet it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!