When the hustle and bustle of the week starts to wear me down, there’s nothing I crave more than a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and satisfaction. Enter Thai Basil Chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai—my go-to culinary escape that whisks me away to the aromatic streets of Thailand. In just 30 minutes, this quick and easy weeknight dinner combines tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also under 400 calories per serving.
Imagine the savory-sweet sauce clinging to peppery basil leaves, crunchy bell peppers, and juicy chicken, all harmonizing in a colorful medley that delights your palate. Whether you’re looking to impress at dinner or simply want to spice up your meal routine, this Thai Basil Chicken is versatile enough to easily adapt for vegetarians as well. Ready to transform your kitchen into a bustling Thai eatery? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Thai Basil Chicken so irresistible?
Bold flavors: The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and chili creates an aromatic explosion that dances on your taste buds.
Quick preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant dish, making it perfect for busy nights.
Low-calorie delight: At under 400 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option that satisfies without weighing you down.
Easy adaptability: Whether you’re a meat lover or vegetarian, this recipe easily transforms to suit every dietary preference.
Crowd-pleaser: Its colorful presentation and mouthwatering aroma make it an instant hit at dinner parties or family meals!
Cooking adventure: Explore Thai cuisine from the comfort of your home and impress everyone with this exciting culinary adventure!
Thai Basil Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavorful masterpiece!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – Juicy, tender meat that soaks up the sauce beautifully; can use chicken breasts if desired.
- Vegetable Oil – High smoke point enables proper searing; feel free to use canola or peanut oil as alternatives.
- Garlic – Provides a strong aroma and depth; minced fresh garlic is ideal for maximum flavor.
- Shallots – Add subtle sweetness and crunch; can substitute with onions if necessary.
For the Vegetables
- Red Chili – Offers customizable spiciness; reduce seeds for a milder dish or increase for more heat.
- Bell Pepper – Adds crispness and juiciness; any bell pepper color works beautifully.
- Fresh Basil – Defines the dish with its fragrant, peppery flavor; Thai basil is preferred, but sweet basil can work, too.
For the Sauce
- Oyster Sauce – Provides umami depth; can use vegetarian stir-fry sauce for a plant-based twist.
- Soy Sauce – Introduces salty complexity; opt for low-sodium versions if watching salt intake.
- Fish Sauce – Adds an authentic Thai flavor; omitting it may alter the dish’s unique profile.
- Sugar – Balances out the salty and spicy flavors; honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes.
- Chicken Broth – Helps thin the sauce for proper coating; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.
Embrace the taste of Thailand right in your home with this delightful Thai Basil Chicken recipe!
How to Make Thai Basil Chicken
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Heat oil: Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken gets that perfect sear and delicious flavor.
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Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and shallots to the hot oil. Sauté them for about a minute until they become fragrant and golden, creating a lovely aroma in your kitchen.
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Cook chicken: Carefully add the chicken thighs in a single layer. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re browned on one side, locking in the juices and flavor.
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Add veggies: Toss in the sliced red chili and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender yet still crisp.
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Prepare sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. Pour this delicious mix over the chicken and vegetables, bringing all those flavors together.
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Simmer: Stir everything well and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. This melds the flavors beautifully, making your kitchen smell absolutely divine.
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Incorporate basil: Gently add the fresh basil, tossing it in until just wilted. This step completes the dish, releasing the fragrant aroma of basil into the mix.
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Season: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste, ensuring all the flavors are perfectly balanced before you serve.
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Serve: Finally, serve your Thai Basil Chicken hot over steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy every delectable bite!
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh basil or a squeeze of lime for added zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Thai Basil Chicken
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Perfectly Sear Chicken: Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding chicken. This helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust and locks in moisture.
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Mind the Garlic: Sauté garlic and shallots until golden but not burnt. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your Thai Basil Chicken.
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Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of red chili according to your spice preference. Remember, you can always add more but can’t take it out!
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil for maximum flavor and aroma. Dried basil won’t provide the same punch, particularly in Thai Basil Chicken.
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Taste Before Serving: Always sample your dish before serving. Adjust the seasoning and sauce mixture to ensure a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors.
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Consider Cooking Tools: A wok is ideal for even heat distribution, but a large non-stick pan will also work well. The right tools can elevate your cooking experience!
Storage Tips for Thai Basil Chicken
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Thai Basil Chicken fresh and flavorful, ready for your next meal!
- Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container, but note that the texture of the vegetables might change slightly after thawing.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out and maintain the dish’s delicious sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair reheated Thai Basil Chicken with freshly steamed rice or fresh vegetables for an easy and quick meal!
What to Serve with Thai Basil Chicken?
Complete your meal with these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors and textures of this vibrant dish.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing, it soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, balancing the dish’s bold flavors.
- Cool Cucumber Salad: The crisp, refreshing nature of cucumber salad provides a perfect contrast to the warmth of the chicken. Toss with a light vinaigrette to elevate your dining experience.
- Steamed Broccoli: This simple, nutritious side adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color, making your plate even more visually appealing while complementing the savory flavors.
- Garlic Naan: A fun twist, this Indian bread brings a different texture and flavor to the table, making for a unique fusion experience. Soaked in the sauce, it’s a treat!
- Thai Iced Tea: Sweet and creamy, this refreshing drink contrasts exceptionally well with the spicy notes of Thai Basil Chicken, making every bite and sip more enjoyable.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat brings a delightful finish to your meal, with the fragrant notes of coconut and sweet ripe mango perfectly complementing the savory chicken dish.
Make Ahead Options
Thai Basil Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (bell peppers, shallots, and garlic) and even marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store these components in the refrigerator in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to whip up the dish, simply heat your oil, sauté the aromatics, and add the chicken and veggies. This allows for a quick finish, resulting in a delicious dinner that saves you time and keeps the flavors just as vibrant. Enjoy the convenience of having your flavorful Thai Basil Chicken ready with minimal effort!
Thai Basil Chicken Variations
Get ready to elevate your dish with these delightful tweaks!
- Vegetarian Swap: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a hearty veg option; marinate for extra flavor before cooking.
- Increase Veggie Power: Add vibrant broccoli or snap peas for a nutritious boost, enhancing both color and texture in your dish.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa to enjoy this dish while keeping it low on carbs.
- Extra Spicy: Up the heat by adding more sliced red chili or a touch of chili paste; it creates a fiery kick that spice lovers will adore.
- Flavor Infusion: Include a splash of coconut milk for a creamy twist that complements the spices beautifully, adding richness to the sauce.
- Herb Variations: Try using a mix of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint alongside basil for a refreshing herbaceous punch that brightens the dish.
- Crispy Texture: Toss in some chopped nuts, like cashews or peanuts, for added crunch and a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
- Sweet and Savory: For a touch of sweetness, throw in pineapple chunks or stir in a bit of orange zest; it brings a bright, tropical flair to your plate.
Thai Basil Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Thai Basil Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and ability to soak up the flavors. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use chicken breasts, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
How should I store leftover Thai Basil Chicken?
You can refrigerate leftover Thai Basil Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. For best results, reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain its moisture.
Can I freeze Thai Basil Chicken?
Certainly! You can freeze Thai Basil Chicken for up to 2 months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and when you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a pan while adding a little chicken broth to keep it saucy and delicious.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
While fresh basil is key to the dish, you can use dried basil in a pinch. However, the flavor will differ. Use about one teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil in the recipe, but add it earlier in the cooking process to help develop its flavor.
Is Thai Basil Chicken suitable for my dietary needs?
Yes! This recipe is easy to adapt for various dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and ensure you use vegetarian stir-fry sauce instead of oyster sauce. Just be sure to adjust the spice levels to your liking!
How can I adjust the spice level?
To customize the spice level, control the amount of red chili used. If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds before adding, or simply reduce the number of chilies. Remember, it’s easier to add spice than to take it away, so take it slow when testing!
Savor Thai Basil Chicken: A 30-Minute Flavor Adventure
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and shallots to the hot oil and sauté for about a minute.
- Add chicken thighs in a single layer and sear for about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in sliced red chili and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chicken broth.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, and stir well.
- Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Gently add fresh basil, tossing until just wilted.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice.