There’s nothing quite like the intoxicating aroma of sizzling garlic mixed with the sweet, peppery notes of Thai basil filling your kitchen. One evening, while stirring through my pantry, I discovered a trove of ingredients just waiting to become the perfect dinner. That’s when I decided to whip up this vibrant Thai Basil Chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai, a dish that effortlessly marries spice and sweetness in one beautiful pan.
In just 30 minutes, this quick and easy meal transforms everyday chicken into a flavor-packed feast that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to break free from the routine of fast food, this recipe offers the ideal balance of speed, taste, and health—coming in at under 400 calories per serving. So, let’s dive into this Thai culinary adventure that promises to reignite your love for homemade meals!
Why is Thai Basil Chicken a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This simple recipe can be made in just 30 minutes—a perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of fragrant herbs and spices creates an irresistible taste that elevates any meal.
Health-Conscious: With under 400 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap proteins and veggies, making it adaptable to your pantry staples while keeping the essence of Thai cuisine.
Culinary Excitement: Say goodbye to mundane dinners; this dish brings a delightful twist to your usual rotation and impresses family or guests alike!
No Special Skills Required: Whether you’re a novice or expert in the kitchen, this recipe ensures success every time!
Thai Basil Chicken Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to a delicious homemade Thai Basil Chicken with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Tender meat that retains juiciness during high-heat cooking; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
For the Aromatics
• Garlic (4 cloves) – Adds a pungent kick and depth of flavor; minced for maximum oil release.
• Shallots (2) – Sweetness with a delicate crunch; can replace with onions if needed.
For the Veggies
• Red Chili (1) – Provides customizable heat; adjust quantity for your preferred spice level.
• Bell Pepper (1) – Sweet and crunchy, brightening the dish; use any color pepper or mix in more veggies for variation.
• Fresh Thai Basil (1 cup) – Essential for authentic flavor, releasing fragrant oil into the sauce; substitutes include sweet basil.
For the Sauce
• Oyster Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Adds umami depth; for vegetarian, swap with mushroom sauce.
• Soy Sauce (1 teaspoon) – Provides salty complexity; low-sodium alternatives are available.
• Fish Sauce (1 teaspoon) – Offers seafood notes; omit or replace with more soy if avoiding seafood.
• Sugar (¼ cup) – Balances saltiness and heat; can use honey or agave for a different sweetness.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup) – Thins the sauce; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian approach.
Each ingredient plays an important role in crafting a delectable Thai Basil Chicken that’s sure to become a favorite! Enjoy your cooking journey!
How to Make Thai Basil Chicken
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Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will help achieve that beautiful sear on the chicken!
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Sauté Aromatics: Add minced garlic and shallots to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until they become fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
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Brown the Chicken: Add sliced chicken thighs next, and cook them for 5–7 minutes until they’re browned on both sides. This step locks in the juicy goodness.
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Cook the Veggies: Stir in the red chili and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peppers have softened but still retain a bit of crunch.
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Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables, making sure everything is well-coated.
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Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a mouthwatering sauce.
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Add Basil: Toss in the fresh Thai basil and stir until just wilted, about 30 seconds. The heat will activate its fragrance, making your dish truly irresistible.
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Adjust Seasoning: Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.
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Serve: Dish out the Thai Basil Chicken hot over fluffy jasmine rice, soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce.
Optional: Top with a fried egg for an authentic Thai twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Thai Basil Chicken
Watch the Garlic: Avoid burning the garlic by sautéing it briefly. Burnt garlic can add a bitter taste to your dish.
Use a Wok: If possible, use a wok for high-heat cooking. This helps to achieve a better sear on the chicken and allows for easier tossing of ingredients.
Customize the Heat: Start with one red chili and taste your dish before adding more. Adjust the amount of chili to your heat preference and avoid overwhelming spice levels.
Freshness Matters: For the best flavor, use fresh Thai basil instead of dried. It will elevate the taste and authenticity of your Thai Basil Chicken.
Serve Immediately: Thai Basil Chicken is best served hot and fresh. If you let it sit too long, the sauce may thicken. Serve right away over jasmine rice for an ideal experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Thai Basil Chicken make ahead options are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can marinate the sliced chicken thighs overnight (up to 24 hours) in your sauce mixture to enhance flavor. Additionally, chop the veggies—garlic, shallots, red chili, and bell pepper—and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply sauté the aromatics, add the marinated chicken, and cook until done. This way, you’ll have a delightful, restaurant-quality meal in a flash, making your weeknight dinners both efficient and delicious!
Thai Basil Chicken Variations
Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Chicken Breasts: Substitute the thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option; just reduce cooking time to keep them tender.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a hearty vegan dish that’s equally satisfying.
- Extra Vegetables: Add asparagus or zucchini for a burst of color and extra crunch; they blend beautifully with the flavors.
- Different Peppers: Switch up the bell pepper for spicy jalapeños or sweet Thai peppers to adjust the heat level to your liking.
- Herb Passport: Swap Thai basil for fresh cilantro or mint for a refreshing twist that brings citrusy notes to the party.
- Saucy Affair: Try adding a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a rich, creamy texture that complements the spices beautifully.
- Sweet Swap: Replace sugar with maple syrup or agave for a natural sweetness that brightens up the flavors.
- Zingy Lime: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to add a zesty brightness that enhances every bite.
Let your culinary journey continue with these delicious twists!
What to Serve with Thai Basil Chicken?
Elevate your meal experience with these delightful sides that promise to enhance every bite of this aromatic dish.
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Jasmine Rice: The classic pairing, fluffy jasmine rice soaks up the delicious sauce, balancing the bold flavors perfectly.
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Crisp Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad offers a cool crunch that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chicken. Toss with chili and lime for a zesty kick!
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Spring Rolls: These light, veggie-filled wraps add a textural crunch and a fun, hands-on element to your meal. Dip in sweet chili sauce for a delightful snack.
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Stir-Fried Broccoli: With its vibrant green color and hearty texture, broccoli, sautéed in garlic and a dash of soy, complements the dish while adding nutritious crunch.
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Silky Coconut Soup: A warm bowl of this mild soup elevates the meal, offering a soothing creaminess that pairs beautifully with the spiced chicken.
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Thai Iced Tea: For those who enjoy a drink, this sweetened tea with creamy milk bridges the heat of the chicken, delivering a lovely contrast of flavors.
Each of these sides brings its own unique charm while harmonizing with the exciting flavors of your Thai Basil Chicken dish.
Storage Tips for Thai Basil Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. To minimize ice crystals, remove excess air from the bags before sealing.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a hot pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This will help preserve the texture of the veggies and chicken.
Make-Ahead: Consider preparing the sauce in advance and storing it separately to make cooking Thai Basil Chicken quick and easy during busy nights!
Thai Basil Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Thai Basil Chicken?
I recommend using chicken thighs for their tenderness and juiciness, especially during high-heat cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can be used, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid drying them out.
How should I store leftovers of Thai Basil Chicken?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, ensure they are properly sealed in freezer-safe bags and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Thai Basil Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion out your Thai Basil Chicken into freezer-safe bags, extracting as much air as possible to prevent ice crystals from forming. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a hot pan over medium heat.
What should I do if my chicken is tough?
If your chicken ends up tough, it likely wasn’t cooked long enough or was overcooked. For future batches, make sure to cook the chicken at a steady medium-high heat, and remember to slice it against the grain for more tenderness.
Is this Thai Basil Chicken dish safe for pets or people with allergies?
This recipe contains common allergens such as fish sauce and soy sauce. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies or a pet, consider substituting these with alternatives like vegetable broth and omitting fish sauce entirely.
How can I adjust the spice level in my Thai Basil Chicken?
To customize the heat, start with one red chili and taste as you cook. You can always add more if you like it spicier! Alternatively, using milder chili varieties or even sweet bell peppers will keep the dish flavorful without the heat.
Savory Thai Basil Chicken in Just 30 Minutes Flat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add minced garlic and shallots to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add sliced chicken thighs and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned on both sides.
- Stir in the red chili and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until peppers have softened.
- Whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chicken broth in a bowl. Pour over chicken and veggies.
- Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Toss in the fresh Thai basil and stir until just wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Dish out the Thai Basil Chicken hot over fluffy jasmine rice.