There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of spiced chicken over warm, fluffy rice. This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice delivers that feeling with layers of flavor that bring together Thai-inspired richness, tropical creaminess, and aromatic herbs in a single, satisfying dish.

The magic here lies in the balance: spicy heat from chili flakes, mellow sweetness from coconut milk, earthy savoriness from soy sauce, and the fresh, punchy lift of basil leaves. The tender chicken simmers in the spiced coconut broth until it’s infused with flavor, and the rice soaks up every last bit of that silky sauce. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve guests.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice

This dish is a weeknight favorite that doesn’t taste rushed. It packs in all the components of a restaurant-quality meal: protein, grains, herbs, and a creamy-spicy sauce. It comes together in one skillet and leaves you with minimal cleanup. The aromas alone will have your family circling the kitchen.

Plus, it’s endlessly flexible. Want to use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Go for it. Add some green beans or chopped bell pepper to bulk it up? Yes, please. This dish can transform based on what you have on hand, and still turn out delicious every time.

What Kind of Coconut Milk Should I Use?

For a rich, creamy finish, go with full-fat canned coconut milk. Light coconut milk tends to be watery and lacks the same luxurious texture. Shake the can before opening to mix the cream with the milk, and be sure to scrape the sides so none of that flavor goes to waste.

If you prefer a thicker, almost stew-like consistency, let the sauce simmer uncovered for a bit longer until it reduces. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as it reduces to keep the flavors balanced.

Ingredients for the Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice

This recipe uses pantry staples with a few flavor-boosting additions. Everything plays a role in building a creamy, spicy, aromatic experience that feels both exotic and homey.

Chicken breasts
Coconut milk
Garlic
Ginger
Fresh basil
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Red pepper flakes
Lime juice
Cooked jasmine rice
Neutral oil (like canola or avocado oil)
Salt and pepper

How To Make the Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Aromatic Base

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant. This is the aromatic base that sets the tone for the whole dish.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer gently for about 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Finish with Freshness

Just before serving, stir in fresh lime juice and chopped basil. Let it sit off the heat for a couple of minutes to allow the herbs to bloom.

Step 5: Serve Over Rice

Spoon the spiced coconut chicken and its sauce over warm jasmine rice. Garnish with extra basil or lime wedges if you’d like an extra pop.

How to Serve and Store This Chicken & Rice Dish

This recipe generously serves four and is best enjoyed warm, right off the stove. The flavors are bold, fresh, and cozy all at once. Leftovers can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of water or coconut milk to keep the sauce creamy. It also works beautifully as a meal prep option for lunches throughout the week.

What to Serve With Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice?

Steamed Broccoli

Its mild flavor and crisp-tender texture pair perfectly with the rich sauce.

Thai Cucumber Salad

Bright, crunchy, and slightly tangy to balance the creamy chicken.

Garlic Naan or Flatbread

Wipe up every last bit of that coconut basil sauce.

Mango Chutney

A fruity, spiced chutney adds a sweet-tart note that compliments the dish beautifully.

Grilled Pineapple

The char and natural sugars amplify the tropical undertones of the coconut.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

They add hearty comfort and a touch of caramelized sweetness.

A Crisp Sauvignon Blanc

If you’re serving guests, a bright white wine will elevate the meal.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this flavorful dinner hit the spot, here are a few more you might love from Janet Dishes:

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a light, meal-prep friendly twist.
No Peek Chicken Casserole when you need pure comfort.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms for a veggie-packed family favorite.
White Chicken Enchilada Casserole for a creamy and cheesy Tex-Mex variation.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready when the craving strikes.

Let me know in the comments if you added extra spice or swapped in another protein. Did you go heavy on the basil or toss in extra lime? I love hearing your variations.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and comfort meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for weeknight wins!

Conclusion

Spiced Coconut Basil Chicken & Rice is everything you want in a meal: warming, vibrant, deeply flavorful, and simple to prepare. Whether you make it part of your weekly dinner rotation or save it for a special dinner with friends, this dish will quickly become a favorite. One skillet, bold flavor, and a comforting plate of joy—you can’t go wrong.