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, stir-fried chicken coated in a savory-sweet sauce, infused with the unmistakable aroma of fresh Thai basil, and packing a delightful spicy kick. If you’re craving a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Thailand, then you’ve come to the right place.

This iconic dish isn’t just delicious; it’s a staple of Thai street food culture. Pad Kra Pao, meaning “stir-fried basil,” is a testament to the ingenuity of Thai cuisine, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. While variations exist, the core elements remain the same: protein (typically chicken, pork, or beef), holy basil (kra pao), chilies, garlic, soy sauce, and fish sauce. It’s a symphony of salty, sweet, spicy, and umami that dances on your palate.

People adore Thai Basil Chicken for its incredible taste and convenience. It’s a dish that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant basil, and fiery chilies is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can adjust the spice level to your liking and serve it with rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready to experience the magic of authentic Thai flavors in your 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 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 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 brown 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 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves, packed
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
• Fried egg (optional), for serving

Preparing the Chicken and Marinade

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

1. In a medium bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), sugar, cornstarch, white pepper, and vegetable oil.
2. Mix everything together really well, making sure that all the chicken pieces are coated evenly with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! I usually aim for at least an hour, but even 30 minutes will make a difference. You can even marinate it overnight for maximum flavor!

Making the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, let’s whip up the sauce. This sauce is the key to that authentic Thai Basil Chicken flavor. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami.

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), brown sugar, chicken broth (or water), and cornstarch.
2. Stir until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. This is important to prevent any lumps in your sauce later on.
3. Set the sauce aside. We’ll use it later in the stir-fry.

Stir-Frying the Chicken

Now for the fun part – the stir-fry! This is where all the flavors come together and create that delicious Thai Basil Chicken we’re craving. Make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, because the stir-fry process moves quickly.

1. Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat. You want the wok to be screaming hot! This is crucial for getting that nice sear on the chicken and vegetables.
2. Add the vegetable oil to the hot wok. Make sure the oil is shimmering before adding the chicken.
3. Add the marinated chicken to the wok in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the wok, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
4. Stir-fry the chicken for about 3-5 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
5. Add the remaining vegetable oil to the wok.
6. Add the minced garlic and chopped Thai chilies to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
7. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the wok and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re slightly softened.
8. Return the cooked chicken to the wok.
9. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
10. Stir-fry everything together for about 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
11. Remove the wok from the heat.
12. Add the Thai basil leaves to the wok and gently stir them in until they’re wilted. The basil will wilt very quickly, so don’t overcook it. You want to retain that fresh, vibrant basil flavor.

Serving

Time to eat! This is the best part, right? I love serving Thai Basil Chicken with a side of fluffy jasmine rice and a fried egg on top. The runny yolk adds a richness that complements the savory flavors of the dish perfectly.

1. Serve the Thai Basil Chicken hot over cooked jasmine rice.
2. Top with a fried egg (optional).
3. Garnish with extra Thai basil leaves (optional).
4. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Thai chilies to your liking. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can omit the chilies altogether.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stir-fry, such as mushrooms, green beans, or carrots.
• Protein: You can substitute the chicken with ground chicken, pork, beef, or tofu.
• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Some people prefer a sweeter sauce, while others prefer a more savory sauce.
• Dark Soy Sauce: The dark soy sauce is primarily for color. If you don’t have it, you can omit it or add a little bit of molasses for a similar effect.
• Freshness is Key: Use fresh Thai basil for the best flavor. Dried basil just doesn’t compare.
• Wok Hei: Achieving “wok hei” (the breath of the wok) is what separates restaurant-quality stir-fries from home-cooked ones. This is achieved by using a very hot wok and tossing the ingredients constantly. If you don’t have a wok, a large skillet will work, but try to get it as hot as possible.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the wok will lower the temperature and cause the ingredients to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Prep Everything First: Stir-fries cook very quickly, so it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This is called “mise en place.”

Storage Instructions:

Leftover Thai Basil Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Calories: 450
Protein: 40g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Enjoy your homemade Thai Basil Chicken! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe this Thai Basil Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves vibrant, aromatic dishes that are both quick and incredibly satisfying. The combination of savory chicken, fragrant basil, and that signature chili-garlic kick is simply irresistible. It’s a weeknight dinner champion, a crowd-pleasing lunch option, and honestly, something I crave on a regular basis.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, all wrapped up in a dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. The fresh basil is the star, infusing every bite with its unique, slightly peppery flavor. And the sauce? Oh, the sauce! It’s a symphony of soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce (optional, but highly recommended!), and a touch of sugar, creating a glaze that’s both sticky and intensely flavorful.

But the best part is how versatile this recipe is! While I’ve shared my go-to version, there are so many ways you can customize it to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Presentation: Serve it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for the ultimate comfort food experience. A fried egg on top is a traditional and delicious addition! The runny yolk adds richness and extra flavor.
* Noodle Bowl Delight: Toss it with cooked rice noodles or even ramen noodles for a heartier meal. Add some steamed broccoli or bok choy for extra veggies.
* Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the Thai Basil Chicken in crisp lettuce cups. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors without the carbs.
* Spice It Up (or Down): Adjust the amount of chili peppers to control the heat level. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just a pinch and add more to taste. For the truly adventurous, try using Thai bird’s eye chilies for an extra kick!
* Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version. Just be sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture before stir-frying. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
* Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top for added texture and flavor.
* Make it a Meal Prep Staple: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Simply cook a large batch and divide it into containers with rice or noodles for easy and delicious lunches throughout the week. It reheats beautifully.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Thai Basil Chicken for yourself. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! I encourage you to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your personal preferences. Cooking should be fun and creative, so don’t be afraid to get a little adventurous.

Once you’ve given it a try, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] or leave a review on the blog. Let me know what variations you tried and what you thought of the recipe. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create even better recipes in the future. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you create!