Introduction

Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Thailand right to your kitchen. This quick and easy recipe features tender chicken stir-fried with aromatic Thai basil, bell peppers, and a savory sauce. A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and aromatic, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite for anyone who loves bold flavors and simple preparation.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breasts – 500 grams, sliced thinly
Thai basil leaves – 1 cup, packed
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Shallots – 2, sliced
Bell pepper – 1, sliced (any color)
Bird’s eye chili – 2, sliced (adjust to taste)
Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
Oyster sauce – 2 tablespoons
Fish sauce – 1 tablespoon
Sugar – 1 teaspoon
Cooking oil – 2 tablespoons

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-3 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and set aside.

Heat Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.

Add Garlic and Chilies

Add minced garlic and sliced red chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.

Add Chicken

Introduce the ground chicken to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it is fully cooked and no longer pink.

Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Add Basil

Remove the pan from the heat and add fresh Thai basil leaves. Stir gently until the basil is just wilted.

Serve

Serve the Thai basil chicken stir-fry immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy!

Notes

Protein Options

You can substitute ground chicken with ground pork, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Fresh Herbs

If Thai basil is unavailable, you may use regular basil, but the flavor profile will differ.

Heat Levels

Adjust the amount of chilies used based on your spice preference.

Storing Leftovers

The stir-fry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider adding steamed vegetables to the stir-fry or serving it with a side of cucumber salad.

Cook techniques

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a cooking method that involves quickly frying food in a small amount of oil over high heat while stirring continuously. This technique ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender, while the vegetables retain their crispness.

Marinating

Marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce and other seasonings enhances its flavor and tenderness. Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 15-30 minutes for the best results.

Chopping and Preparing Ingredients

Properly chopping and preparing your ingredients before you start cooking helps streamline the stir-frying process. Make sure all vegetables and proteins are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.

Flavor Balancing

Balancing flavors is key in perfecting your dish. Adjust the levels of sweetness, saltiness, and spiciness to suit your taste preferences, using sugar, soy sauce, and chili as necessary.

Using High Heat

Cooking at high heat is crucial for achieving that signature stir-fried texture and flavor. Make sure your wok or skillet is properly pre-heated before adding the oil and ingredients.

FAQ

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins like tofu, beef, or shrimp, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

What type of basil should I use?

Thai basil is recommended for its unique flavor, but you can use sweet basil in a pinch, keeping in mind it will slightly alter the taste.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can make this a vegetarian dish by using tofu or tempeh and adding more vegetables.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe; just ensure that your cooking vessel is large enough and that you stir-fry in batches to prevent overcrowding.

Conclusion

The Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your kitchen. It’s quick to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a delicious weeknight meal. The balance of spicy, savory, and aromatic notes will satisfy your palate and leave you wanting more.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Thai Green Curry Chicken

For another Thai delight, try making Thai Green Curry Chicken. This dish incorporates coconut milk, green curry paste, and assorted vegetables, delivering a rich and creamy flavor that’s beloved in Thai cooking.

Pad See Ew

Explore the flavors of Pad See Ew, a stir-fried noodle dish with soy sauce, broccoli, and your choice of protein. The smoky stir-fry technique combined with the chewy noodles offers a satisfying meal option.

Gai Pad Krapow Moo Saap (Basil Pork Stir Fry)

For a different protein twist, try Gai Pad Krapow Moo Saap, which uses minced pork instead of chicken. This dish maintains the same bold flavors but gives a different texture and taste experience.

Tom Yum Soup

Pair your basil chicken with a bowl of Tom Yum Soup, a hot and sour Thai soup that features shrimp, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. The zesty and invigorating broth complements the stir-fry beautifully.

Thai Mango Salad

Serve a refreshing Thai Mango Salad alongside your main dish for a sweet and tangy balance. The crunch of fresh vegetables and the sweetness of mango provide a perfect counterpoint to the savory basil chicken.

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Add some crunch with Vegetable Spring Rolls as an appetizer. These crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies are perfect for dipping in a homemade peanut or hoisin sauce.

Thai Fried Rice

Consider whipping up some Thai Fried Rice to complement your basil chicken. This dish is versatile and can incorporate various proteins and vegetables, allowing you to customize it to your taste.