Thai Basil Chicken: A Quick & Easy Recipe

Thai Basil Chicken, or Pad Kra Pao Gai, is a dish that explodes with flavor in every single bite! Imagine tender, juicy ground chicken stir-fried with fragrant Thai basil, fiery chilies, and a savory-sweet sauce that clings to every morsel. Are you ready to experience a culinary adventure that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make at home?

This iconic Thai street food staple isn’t just about the taste; it’s a cultural experience. Pad Kra Pao, meaning “stir-fried basil,” is a dish deeply rooted in Thai cuisine, often enjoyed as a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. While variations exist, the core ingredients remain consistent: holy basil (kra pao), meat (typically chicken, pork, or beef), chilies, garlic, and a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. The dish’s popularity stems from its perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and savory notes, creating an addictive flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.

People adore Thai Basil Chicken for its incredible taste and satisfying texture. The combination of the tender chicken, the slightly chewy basil leaves, and the fiery kick of the chilies creates a symphony of sensations in your mouth. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal. So, ditch the takeout and let’s embark on a journey to create authentic and mouthwatering Thai Basil Chicken in your very own kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken and Marinade:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color, optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color, optional)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• For the Stir-Fry:
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-4 Thai chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves, packed
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Fried egg (optional), for serving

Marinating the Chicken:

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to marinate the chicken. This is a crucial step because it infuses the chicken with flavor and helps to keep it tender during the stir-fry process. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this!

1. In a medium bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce (if using), 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of white pepper.
2. Mix everything together really well, making sure that all the chicken pieces are coated evenly with the marinade.
3. Now, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the bowl. The cornstarch will help to thicken the sauce later on and also create a nice, slightly crispy texture on the chicken.
4. Mix again until the cornstarch is fully incorporated.
5. Finally, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the bowl. The oil will help to prevent the chicken from sticking to the wok or pan during cooking.
6. Give it one last good mix, and then cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!

Preparing the Sauce:

While the chicken is marinating, let’s prepare the sauce. Having the sauce ready to go before you start stir-frying makes the whole process much smoother and faster. No one wants to be scrambling to mix the sauce while the chicken is burning!

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce (if using), 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of chicken broth or water, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch.
2. Whisk everything together until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and the sauce is smooth. Set this aside for later.

Stir-Frying the Chicken:

Alright, the chicken is marinated, the sauce is ready, now it’s time for the fun part – stir-frying! This is where all the flavors come together to create that amazing Thai Basil Chicken taste.

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. You want the wok or skillet to be really hot before you add the chicken. This will help to sear the chicken and give it a nice color.
2. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the marinated chicken to the wok or skillet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
3. Stir-fry the chicken for 3-5 minutes, or until it is cooked through and lightly browned. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the wok or skillet and set it aside.
5. Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok or skillet if needed. Add the minced garlic and chopped Thai chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
6. Add the sliced onion and chopped bell pepper to the wok or skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
7. Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. This should only take a minute or two.
8. Return the cooked chicken to the wok or skillet. Stir-fry everything together for another minute or two, until the chicken is coated evenly with the sauce and heated through.
9. Remove the wok or skillet from the heat. Add the Thai basil leaves and gently stir them into the chicken and sauce. The basil will wilt quickly from the heat.

Serving:

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – serving up this delicious Thai Basil Chicken!

1. Serve the Thai Basil Chicken immediately over cooked rice.
2. If you’re feeling fancy, top each serving with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds a richness and creaminess that complements the spicy and savory flavors of the dish perfectly.
3. Garnish with extra Thai basil leaves, if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures proper searing and prevents steaming.
• High heat is key: A hot wok or skillet is essential for stir-frying.
• Adjust the spice level: Add more or fewer chilies to suit your taste.
• Fresh ingredients make a difference: Use fresh Thai basil for the best flavor.
• Marinate for longer: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Variations:

• Add other vegetables: Try adding green beans, mushrooms, or carrots.
• Use different protein: Substitute chicken with ground pork, beef, or tofu.
• Make it vegetarian: Use tofu and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add a touch of sweetness: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance the flavor.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Thai Basil Chicken as much as I do! It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the recipe to your own liking. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Thai Basil Chicken recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Bangkok. The fragrant basil, the fiery chilies, and the savory sauce combine to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Thai cuisine or is simply looking to add a little zest to their meal routine.

But what makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. While I’ve outlined my favorite way to prepare it, feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds before chopping. If you’re a spice enthusiast like me, don’t be afraid to add an extra chili or two!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Traditionally, Thai Basil Chicken is served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, which perfectly soaks up all that delicious sauce. But don’t let that limit you! It’s also fantastic with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. A fried egg on top is a classic addition that adds richness and creaminess.

Looking for variations? Consider swapping the ground chicken for ground turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans for extra nutrients and texture. A squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.

Another fun variation is to make Thai Basil Chicken lettuce wraps. Simply spoon the cooked chicken mixture into crisp lettuce cups and garnish with chopped peanuts, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo. This is a great option for a light and refreshing lunch or appetizer.

I’ve even used this recipe as a filling for dumplings! The savory and spicy chicken mixture works perfectly inside wonton wrappers, and they can be steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried for a delicious and unique appetizer.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

I know there are countless recipes out there, but I’m confident that this Thai Basil Chicken recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables or customize to your own dietary needs and preferences.

The key to a truly authentic Thai Basil Chicken experience is using fresh Thai basil. Its unique anise-like flavor is what sets this dish apart. If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited to share it with you. I truly believe that anyone can make this dish, regardless of their cooking experience. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!

Now it’s your turn! I encourage you to try this recipe and let me know what you think. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your photos on social media using [Your Hashtag] so I can see your creations! Happy cooking!