Save Thai basil chicken stir-fry delivers bold flavors and aromas with juicy chicken thighs, fiery chilies, and fresh Thai basil leaves, all cooked rapidly over high heat. A harmonious blend of soy, oyster, and fish sauces builds a savory, salty base, rounded by a touch of sugar. This dish is easy to prepare, requiring only thirty minutes from start to finish, and pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice. Consider topping with a fried egg for another layer of richness, or adjust the chilies for your preferred spice level. Substitute pork or tofu for variety, and enjoy this aromatic Thai classic at home.
Thai Basil Chicken is my go-to when I want a meal bursting with flavor but do not want to spend hours in the kitchen. Tender chicken pieces are quickly stir-fried with garlic, chilies, and vibrant Thai basil, coming together in just half an hour for a comforting main dish that smells absolutely irresistible.
This dish stole the show the first time I made it for a weeknight dinner. Now it is a constant request whenever we crave bold flavors but need something fuss free.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Use thighs for juiciness and tenderness Chicken breast works too if you prefer a leaner option
- Oyster sauce: Adds savory depth and a light sweetness Look for quality brands with balanced flavor
- Soy sauce: Gives umami and saltiness Choose low sodium if you wish to control the salt
- Fish sauce: Brings distinctive savory character Use a reputable Thai brand for best results
- Dark soy sauce: This gives rich color to the finished dish It is optional and not too salty
- Sugar: Balances the saltiness and enhances caramelization A pinch is all you need
- Garlic: Provides the aromatic base Freshly minced gives the strongest taste
- Thai birds eye chilies: Deliver authentic heat Adjust the number or remove seeds to control spice
- Onion: A bit of sweetness and crunch Choose a small onion for mild flavor
- Red bell pepper: Adds color and a mild fresh bite Crisp bell peppers balance the heat
- Thai basil leaves: The true star with its spicy licorice notes Always use freshly picked leaves for best aroma
- Vegetable oil: Ensures high heat cooking and keeps ingredients from sticking Use a neutral flavored oil
- Steamed jasmine rice: Perfect aromatic pairing Cook rice while you prepare the stir fry
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Combine oyster sauce soy sauce fish sauce dark soy sauce and sugar in a small bowl Whisk until sugar dissolves and the sauce looks glossy and smooth This is the flavor foundation for your stir fry
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat Once shimmering add minced garlic and chopped chilies Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until you smell their vivid aroma and see the garlic just turning golden
- Cook the Chicken:
- Add thinly sliced chicken thighs and stir fry rapidly for three to four minutes Use a flat spatula to spread the pieces out so they sear rather than steam Cook just until the chicken loses its pink color but do not overcook
- Add the Crunch:
- Toss in sliced onion and red bell pepper Stir fry for two minutes so they keep their bite and brighten the pan
- Sauce and Toss:
- Pour in your prepared sauce mixture Stir energetically for another minute or two to fully coat the chicken The sauce should bubble and cling to everything and the chicken needs to be cooked through
- Finish with Thai Basil:
- Turn off the heat and toss in the Thai basil leaves Fold them gently into the hot mixture so they wilt but stay vibrant and fresh
- Plate and Serve:
- Spoon the stir fry over piping hot jasmine rice and enjoy immediately If you want to level up add a crispy fried egg on top
Save Thai basil is what makes this dish memorable for me Growing it in my little indoor pot every summer means I can pick a handful right before dinner and the scent always reminds me of sunny days and visits to Thai restaurants with friends
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat over medium heat in a skillet to revive the basil aroma Thai basil may darken after storing but the flavor stays delicious
Ingredient Substitutions
Use pork strips or pressed tofu for a different approach Both soak up the sauce just as beautifully Regular sweet basil can be used if you cannot find Thai basil but the flavor will be more mellow For a gluten free option select gluten free soy and oyster sauces
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is truly complete with just jasmine rice Add a fried egg sunny side up for extra richness Cucumber slices or a quick pickled veggie on the side cool the heat and provide contrast
Cultural Context
Pad Krapow Gai is a beloved Thai street food and lunch staple The dish is known for its balance of heat savory notes and that unforgettable peppery aroma from Thai basil Typically enjoyed with rice and often topped with a crispy fried egg
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in snap peas zucchini or green beans when bell peppers are out of season Try a blend of regular basil and mint if Thai basil is unavailable in colder months Chilies are easily adjusted to suit your current spice cravings
Shopping Tips
Purchase chicken thighs in family packs for value and freshness Select Thai basil bundles with green crisp leaves Fresh chilies freeze well so store any extras for your next stir fry
Success Stories
My best friend now brags about mastering this recipe after I shared it She makes the spicy version with double chilies for her husband who cannot get enough heat Every time I see her we swap new veggie mix ins to keep it fresh
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can make a big batch of the stir fry base and freeze it in meal prep containers Exclude the basil during freezing then mix in fresh leaves while reheating for that just cooked aroma This keeps the dish vibrant and prevents sogginess
Save If you love meals with powerful aroma and effortless technique Thai Basil Chicken will soon become your weekday hero just like it did for me Try mixing up the veggies based on what you have This dish is flexible but always deeply satisfying
