Delicious Homemade Thai Basil Chicken Recipe

Recipe Overview

Welcome to the world of vibrant flavors and aromatic spices with this easy Thai basil chicken recipe. This dish hails from the streets of Thailand, celebrated for its fresh ingredients and a perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors. Known locally as “Pad Krapow Gai,” this dish is a true street food staple; it marries tender chicken pieces with fragrant Thai basil, fresh chili, and a delectable sauce that you can whip up in no time. If you are looking for a way to elevate your weeknight meals, this homemade Thai basil chicken from scratch will quickly become a favorite.

Thai basil chicken is not only quick to prepare but also versatile—perfect for serving over jasmine rice or stuffed into a lettuce wrap. Those seeking a plant-based option will also find satisfaction with our suggested variations for a vegan Thai basil chicken. This dish is aromatic, spicy, and utterly satisfying, making it a great choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. With a mere 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes that serves 4 people.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 to 3 Thai bird chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (sweet basil can be substituted)

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce for vegans)
1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, skip for vegan version)
1 teaspoon sugar or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Possible Ingredient Swaps

Use firm tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a plant-based protein
Swap vegetable oil with coconut oil for a slight exotic flavor
Granulated garlic can replace fresh garlic if that’s what you have on hand

Equipment List

Large skillet or wok
Wooden spatula or cooking spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups
Small mixing bowl for sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the chicken thighs into small pieces, mince the garlic, and chop the Thai bird chilies. Rinse the Thai basil leaves under cold water and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), sugar, and ground black pepper. Whisk until well-blended and set it aside.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer—this ensures it’s hot enough for stir-frying.
Sauté Garlic and Chilies: Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
Cook the Chicken: Increase the heat to high and add the chopped chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has started to brown. You should hear a sizzling sound as it cooks.
Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken, stirring well to coat. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and immediately fold in the Thai basil leaves. Stir until they are wilted but still vibrant green. The heat from the chicken will release the lovely fragrance of the basil.
Serve: Serve your Thai basil chicken hot, over cooked jasmine rice or in lettuce wraps. Enjoy the delightful aroma and the enticing colors of your dish!

Special Notes

For meal prep, Thai basil chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. It’s perfect for making delicious lunch boxes! If you find the sauce too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water or broth until you achieve your desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

Vegan Option: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegan oyster sauce. Skip the fish sauce entirely.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce to maintain gluten-free integrity.
Low-Carb Option: Serve it with cauliflower rice or sautéed vegetables instead of traditional rice.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving:

Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare your Thai basil chicken, imagine the vibrant colors of the fresh basil leaves contrasting against the golden-brown chicken. The intoxicating aroma of garlic and chilies will start to fill your kitchen, evoking the bustling streets of Thailand. When you eventually stir in the basil, the dish transforms; the basil wilts just enough to release its refreshing scent, enticing your taste buds for what’s to come. Once plated, this dish should look artfully arranged, glistening with a fragrant sauce. Don’t forget to capture a photo for your Instagram feed; it’s sure to impress!

Conclusion

Now that you have the perfect homemade Thai basil chicken recipe, I encourage you to bring a taste of Thailand into your kitchen. Experiment with the variations, share a plate with friends, or enjoy a fantastic family meal. Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! We would love to hear how it turned out for you. And don’t hesitate to share your version on Instagram, tagging us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking!