Name: Coconut Basil Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced thin; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat or light); 2 tbsp soy sauce or fish sauce; 1 tbsp lime juice; 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil; 2 bell peppers, sliced; 2 carrots, julienned; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 tsp red chili flakes or fresh sliced chili (optional); Cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles, for serving

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This coconut basil garlic chicken stir-fry bowl is a fragrant, flavorful dish that I love making when I want something quick, vibrant, and satisfying. The coconut milk makes the sauce creamy, while garlic and fresh basil bring a burst of freshness that ties the whole bowl together. Served over rice or noodles, it’s a complete meal that never disappoints.

Coconut Basil Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it layers bold flavors with minimal effort. The coconut milk adds richness, the garlic deepens the flavor, and the basil brightens it all up. I also like how flexible it is—I can use whatever vegetables I have on hand, and it always comes out delicious. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced thin
Garlic, minced
Fresh basil leaves
Coconut milk (full-fat or light)
Soy sauce or fish sauce
Lime juice
Olive oil or coconut oil
Bell peppers, sliced
Carrots, julienned
Broccoli florets
Red chili flakes or fresh chili (optional, for heat)
Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Directions

I start by heating oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
I add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked through, then set it aside.
In the same pan, I sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
I pour in the coconut milk and a splash of soy sauce (or fish sauce), letting the sauce simmer and thicken slightly.
I return the chicken to the pan, toss everything together, and stir in the fresh basil leaves and a squeeze of lime juice.
I serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles, garnished with extra basil or chili flakes.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It usually takes me 10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready in around 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu. If I want it spicier, I stir in Thai red curry paste or fresh sliced chilies. I’ve also used zucchini, snap peas, or baby corn depending on what’s in my fridge. For a nuttier flavor, I drizzle a little toasted sesame oil over the bowl before serving.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I use the stovetop with a splash of coconut milk or broth to keep the sauce smooth. The microwave works fine too, but I stir halfway through so the sauce heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

I prefer fresh basil because it adds brightness, but if I only have dried, I add it earlier in cooking so it has time to release flavor.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free as long as I use coconut milk and avoid butter.

What’s the best protein substitute for chicken?

I often use shrimp, beef strips, or tofu, all of which work great with the coconut garlic basil sauce.

Do I need a wok to make this recipe?

No, I usually use a large skillet, and it works perfectly fine.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

I like serving it with jasmine rice, rice noodles, or quinoa for a healthier twist.

Conclusion

Coconut basil garlic chicken stir-fry bowl is one of those meals I turn to when I want something vibrant, creamy, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how the coconut milk, garlic, and basil come together for a perfect balance, and the versatility makes it a dish I never get tired of. It’s quick, customizable, and always a hit at the table.