Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry: A Quick and Flavorful Dinner Recipe
Thai basil chicken stir fry, also known as Pad Krapow Gai, is a popular Thai dish that brings bold flavors to your table. This stir-fried chicken recipe uses fresh holy basil, garlic, and chili for a spicy, aromatic meal. It’s a staple in Thai cuisine, often served over rice with a fried egg on top. If you love Asian stir fry dishes, this one fits right in with its balance of savory, sweet, and heat.
This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll find ingredients like fish sauce and oyster sauce at most Asian markets or grocery stores. Fresh basil makes all the difference, so pick vibrant leaves from the produce section.
Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Chicken Recipe
This dish stands as a go-to for Thai food lovers. The ground chicken cooks fast, absorbing sauces that include soy sauce and a touch of sugar for depth. Holy basil adds an earthy, peppery note that sets it apart from Italian basil varieties. It’s gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, and you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Many home cooks enjoy how versatile it is. Add vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for extra nutrition. The result is a protein-packed meal that’s low in carbs when paired with cauliflower rice.
Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry
Gather these items before starting. They create the signature umami taste in this stir fry chicken recipe.
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground chicken (or chicken breast, diced small)
- 2 cups fresh holy basil leaves (Thai basil works too; avoid sweet basil)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin (optional for color and crunch)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-4 Thai bird’s eye chilies, chopped (adjust for heat; use less for mild)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (for color)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (palm sugar if available)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or neutral oil like canola)
For Serving
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Fried eggs (one per serving)
- Lime wedges for squeezing
These ingredients highlight key elements of Thai stir fry recipes, like the fermented fish sauce for that authentic tang.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these clear steps to make your Thai basil chicken. Prep everything first for smooth cooking, as stir fries move quickly.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the garlic and chilies finely. This helps release their flavors during cooking. Rinse the basil leaves and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the pan. Slice the bell pepper if using it. Measure out the sauces in small bowls so you can add them fast.
Ground chicken works best because it soaks up the sauce well. If using chicken breast, dice it into small pieces for even cooking.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Cook the Aromatics
Place a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it get hot, about 30 seconds. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped chilies. Stir fry them for 20-30 seconds until fragrant. Watch closely to prevent burning, as garlic can turn bitter.
This step builds the base flavor for your chicken basil stir fry. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling good things to come.
Step 3: Add and Cook the Chicken
Push the garlic and chilies to the side. Add the ground chicken to the center of the pan. Break it up with a spatula and stir fry for 4-5 minutes until it browns and cooks through. No pink should remain.
If the pan gets dry, add a splash of water. Mix in the cooked aromatics once the chicken starts to color.
Step 4: Pour in the Sauce
Stir in the oyster sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Mix everything well to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for 2 minutes, letting the sauces reduce slightly. The mixture will thicken and become glossy.
Taste it here and adjust if needed. More sugar balances saltiness; extra chili amps up the spice in this Thai chicken recipe.
Step 5: Incorporate the Basil and Vegetables
Add the sliced bell pepper and stir fry for 1 minute to soften it a bit. Turn off the heat and toss in the fresh basil leaves. Stir until they wilt from the residual heat, about 30 seconds. Basil should stay bright green, not overcooked.
This is the key moment for that fresh, herbal punch in Pad Krapow.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Spoon the Thai basil chicken over hot jasmine rice. Top each portion with a fried egg for a classic Thai touch. Squeeze lime over it for brightness. Serve right away to keep the textures crisp.
Leftovers store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Tips for the Best Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry
Use high heat for that wok hei, the smoky flavor in stir fries. A carbon steel wok holds heat well, but any skillet works. Fresh basil is non-negotiable; dried won’t give the same punch.
For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms. Keep the sauces the same for that Thai basil flavor profile. If holy basil is hard to find, Thai basil from the herb section is a close substitute.
Pair this with cucumber slices to cool the spice. It’s a complete meal that nods to street food in Thailand.
Variations and Substitutions
Make it your own with these ideas. Ground turkey replaces chicken for a leaner option. Add snap peas or carrots for more veggies in your stir fry.
For less heat, remove chili seeds or use jalapenos. Sweet basil can work in a pinch, but it changes the taste slightly.
This recipe scales easily. Double it for meal prep, storing portions in airtight containers.
Nutritional Information
One serving (without rice or egg) has about 250 calories, 15g protein, 10g fat, and 8g carbs. It’s rich in vitamins from garlic and basil. The sauces add sodium, so balance with fresh sides.
This makes it a healthy choice for dinner rotations, especially with whole grains.
FAQ
What is the difference between holy basil and Thai basil in stir fry recipes?
Holy basil has a stronger, peppery flavor ideal for Pad Krapow. Thai basil is milder and sweeter, often used in curries. Both work, but holy basil gives the most authentic taste.
Can I make Thai basil chicken without fish sauce?
Yes, substitute with more soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative. It tones down the umami, so add a bit of mushroom powder for depth.
How spicy is this Thai chicken stir fry?
It depends on the chilies. Two chilies make it medium; four are hot. Start low and add more next time if you like heat.
Is oyster sauce necessary for this recipe?
It adds richness, but hoisin sauce can replace it. The dish still tastes great without, though it might be less savory.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of ground chicken?
Diced chicken thighs work well. Stir fry them until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. They stay juicy.
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