Thai Basil Chicken Delight 🥢🌿🔥 – The Ultimate Fragrant Thai Basil Dish Recipe

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner — Thai basil chicken. This spicy chicken stir-fry combines tender chicken, fiery chili, and aromatic Thai basil for a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Known as pad krapow gai in Thailand, this fragrant Thai basil dish can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe offers a burst of authentic Thai flavors that will impress every time.

2. Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into strips
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust for spice level)
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

To explore more delicious Asian recipes, check out our easy chicken chow mein recipe or discover other flavorful dishes.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Thai Basil Chicken

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the chicken into thin strips, mincing the garlic, and slicing the chilies and onion. Wash and dry the Thai basil leaves gently to preserve their aroma.

Heat the Oil and Sauté Aromatics

In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, sliced chilies, and onions. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken strips to the pan. Cook, stirring often, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Sauces and Seasoning

Mix in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Add the Thai Basil

Finally, toss in the fresh Thai basil leaves. Stir gently until the basil wilts and releases its fragrant aroma. Remove from heat immediately.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Thai Basil Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the flavors. To keep the basil’s aroma vibrant, add fresh basil leaves when reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions for Thai Basil Chicken

Serve the Thai basil chicken hot over fluffy jasmine rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an extra kick, garnish with additional sliced chilies or a squeeze of lime. Looking to elevate your meal? Try pairing this dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or a cool mango salsa.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Thai Basil Chicken

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Thai basil necessary?

Yes, Thai basil is fundamental for authentic flavor, with its distinctive anise-like aroma. If unavailable, you can try sweet basil as a substitute, but the taste will be different.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness depends on the number of chilies used. Adjust the amount of bird’s eye chilies to suit your spice preference.

What is the prep time?

Overall, this fragrant Thai basil dish takes about 20-25 minutes from prep to plate, making it an ideal quick meal.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Perfect for cooking chicken quickly and evenly, enhancing flavor with less oil.
• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — Great for preparing Asian-inspired stir-fries in a fast, healthy way.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures your stir-fry doesn’t stick and is easy to clean.
• Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker — Ideal to prepare a refreshing iced tea to enjoy with this spicy dish.

Investing in the right kitchen tools will make your cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient.

8. Tips to Perfect Your Thai Basil Chicken

• Use fresh Thai basil for the best aroma and flavor.
• Adjust spice levels to your preference by modifying the amount of chilies.
• Ensure the chicken is sliced thin for quick cooking and tender results.
• incorporate a little sugar to balance the savory and spicy notes for a well-rounded flavor.

9. Conclusion

Mastering this Thai basil chicken recipe allows you to bring authentic Thai flavors right into your kitchen. Its bold, fragrant, and spicy profile makes it a standout dish perfect for any day of the week. Whether served over rice or paired with fresh salads, this spicy chicken stir-fry will surely become a household favorite. So, grab your ingredients, check out some helpful kitchen tools, and get ready to enjoy a fragrant Thai basil dish that’s both quick to make and bursting with flavor!

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