Basil Cilantro And Macadamia Nut Chicken Recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this incredible Basil Cilantro & Macadamia Nut Chicken recipe! Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor, then enjoy a quick 30-minute cook time. This vibrant dish is bursting with fresh herbs, crunchy macadamia nuts, and a zesty lime-yogurt sauce. Prepare it the night before for a truly effortless, delicious meal that will have you reaching for seconds!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 389.2 kcal
Protein 113g
Rating 4.6 (13 Reviews)
Basil Cilantro And Macadamia Nut Chicken

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basil Cilantro And Macadamia Nut Chicken

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken
  • Fresh Ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled
  • Jalapenos
  • 1/2 cup macadamia nuts
  • Olive Oil
  • Lime Juice
  • Plain Yogurt
  • 1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
  • Garam Masala
  • Ground Coriander
  • Ground Cumin
  • Salt And Pepper

How to Make Basil Cilantro And Macadamia Nut Chicken

  1. Combine 1 inch ginger, 2 cloves garlic, and 1-2 Thai chilies (adjust to your spice preference) in a food processor. Process until completely smooth.
  2. Add 1/2 cup macadamia nuts and process until finely chopped.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup plain yogurt, 1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Process until a smooth paste forms.
  4. Place 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a medium bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours (or overnight) for best results.
  6. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
  7. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly (about 20-30 minutes).
  8. Optional: Add 1 teaspoon chili oil for extra heat during the last few minutes of cooking.
  9. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine or basmati rice.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

8 g

Sugar

19g

Fat

18g

Carbs

2g