Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Are you ready to spice things up in the kitchen? Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that brings the bold taste of Thailand right to your table. With just a few easy steps, you can impress your family and friends with a meal they won’t forget. Join me as I guide you through the ingredients and the cooking process to create this delicious dish. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Chicken and vegetables

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust for heat)

Chicken makes this dish hearty and tasty. I love using chicken thighs. They stay juicy and flavorful. The red bell pepper adds a nice crunch and sweetness. Garlic brings depth, while the chilies add that spicy kick.

Sauce ingredients

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon fish sauce

– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

– 1 teaspoon sugar

These sauces create a rich base for the chicken. Soy sauce gives umami. Fish sauce adds saltiness. Oyster sauce brings sweetness, and sugar balances all the flavors.

Serving suggestions

– Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

– Fresh Thai basil leaves

I always serve this dish with jasmine rice. It soaks up the sauce well. Thai basil is a must for garnish. It adds fragrance and a fresh taste. You can also add lime wedges for a zesty touch.

For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this delicious meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Cooking the chicken

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sliced bird’s eye chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds. This will release a strong aroma. Next, add the sliced chicken thighs. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the chicken to turn golden and be fully cooked.

2. Adding vegetables

Now toss in the sliced red bell pepper. Stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes. The bell pepper should be tender but still crisp. This keeps the dish colorful and adds crunch.

3. Mixing in sauces

In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce over the chicken and peppers. Toss everything well until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. This step adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

4. Final touches with basil

Remove the skillet from heat. Fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves until they wilt. This will give the dish its signature aroma and taste. Serve the Spicy Thai Basil Chicken over hot jasmine rice for a fantastic meal. You can find the Full Recipe for more details on preparation and serving.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Authentic Flavor

Choosing the right chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender. Thighs hold flavor better than chicken breasts. This makes a big difference in taste.

Adjusting spice levels: You can control the heat. Start with one chili if you prefer mild. Add more chilies as you like. Remember, fresh chilies pack a punch. Always taste as you go to find your perfect spice.

Importance of fresh ingredients: Fresh Thai basil is key to this dish. It adds a unique flavor that dried herbs can’t match. Always buy fresh produce for the best taste. Fresh garlic and peppers also enhance your meal’s aroma and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with rice: Serve your Spicy Thai Basil Chicken over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce well. It balances the heat and adds a nice texture.

Garnishes to enhance presentation: A few fresh basil leaves on top make it look great. You can also add lime wedges. They add a fresh kick when squeezed on the dish. These small touches make your meal stand out.

For a full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily change up this recipe by using different proteins. Instead of chicken, try shrimp, beef, or tofu. Each protein brings its own flair to the dish. If you want a vegetarian or vegan version, use firm tofu or tempeh. These options soak up the sauce well and still taste great.

For alternate vegetables, think about adding snap peas or broccoli. These veggies add nice crunch and color. You can mix and match to find your favorite combo. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Flavor Enhancements

To add more depth to your dish, consider adding nuts like cashews or peanuts. This adds texture and a rich flavor. You can also try spices like cumin or coriander for a new twist. Just a pinch can make a big difference.

Using different sauces can also change the flavor profile. Try adding hoisin sauce for sweetness or chili garlic sauce for extra heat. Each change can create a unique meal. Explore these options to find what you love most. If you want the full recipe, check it out [here](#).

Storage Info

Short-term Storage

To keep Spicy Thai Basil Chicken fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. When you reheat it, use a skillet or microwave. Heat until the chicken is warm all the way through. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry it out.

Long-term Storage

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet for the best taste. Enjoy your Spicy Thai Basil Chicken again with a fresh flavor! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section.

FAQs

Common Questions

What is the origin of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai, comes from Thailand. It is a popular street food. Thai basil gives it a unique flavor. The dish is quick and easy to make, making it a favorite for many.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

You can use dried basil, but fresh is best. Fresh Thai basil has a strong taste. Dried basil may lack the same depth. If you use dried, add less because it is more potent.

How can I make it milder or spicier?

To make it milder, use fewer chilies. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies. For more heat, add extra bird’s eye chilies. Taste as you go to find your right balance.

Additional Recipe Questions

What sides pair well with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

This dish goes well with jasmine rice. You can also serve it with a side salad. Stir-fried vegetables are a great choice too. They add color and crunch to your meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead. Cook the chicken and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving. The flavors will meld and taste great.

Cooking Techniques

How to properly stir-fry?

To stir-fry, heat your pan until it is very hot. Add oil, then your ingredients quickly. Keep the food moving to cook evenly. This prevents burning and ensures a nice texture.

What equipment do I need for this recipe?

You need a large skillet or wok. A spatula is great for stirring. A cutting board and knife will help with prep. Having everything ready makes cooking easier.

For more detailed cooking instructions, refer to the Full Recipe.

This article covered how to make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken. You learned about the key ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. We shared tips for authentic flavor and fun variations. You can store this dish safely for later use.

Cooking this meal can be a joyful experience. I hope you try it and enjoy every bite!

- Chicken and vegetables - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 Thai bird's eye chilies, sliced (adjust for heat) Chicken makes this dish hearty and tasty. I love using chicken thighs. They stay juicy and flavorful. The red bell pepper adds a nice crunch and sweetness. Garlic brings depth, while the chilies add that spicy kick. - Sauce ingredients - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon fish sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 teaspoon sugar These sauces create a rich base for the chicken. Soy sauce gives umami. Fish sauce adds saltiness. Oyster sauce brings sweetness, and sugar balances all the flavors. - Serving suggestions - Cooked jasmine rice, for serving - Fresh Thai basil leaves I always serve this dish with jasmine rice. It soaks up the sauce well. Thai basil is a must for garnish. It adds fragrance and a fresh taste. You can also add lime wedges for a zesty touch. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this delicious meal. 1. Cooking the chicken Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sliced bird's eye chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds. This will release a strong aroma. Next, add the sliced chicken thighs. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the chicken to turn golden and be fully cooked. 2. Adding vegetables Now toss in the sliced red bell pepper. Stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes. The bell pepper should be tender but still crisp. This keeps the dish colorful and adds crunch. 3. Mixing in sauces In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce over the chicken and peppers. Toss everything well until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. This step adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish. 4. Final touches with basil Remove the skillet from heat. Fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves until they wilt. This will give the dish its signature aroma and taste. Serve the Spicy Thai Basil Chicken over hot jasmine rice for a fantastic meal. You can find the Full Recipe for more details on preparation and serving. - Choosing the right chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender. Thighs hold flavor better than chicken breasts. This makes a big difference in taste. - Adjusting spice levels: You can control the heat. Start with one chili if you prefer mild. Add more chilies as you like. Remember, fresh chilies pack a punch. Always taste as you go to find your perfect spice. - Importance of fresh ingredients: Fresh Thai basil is key to this dish. It adds a unique flavor that dried herbs can't match. Always buy fresh produce for the best taste. Fresh garlic and peppers also enhance your meal's aroma and flavor. - Pairing with rice: Serve your Spicy Thai Basil Chicken over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce well. It balances the heat and adds a nice texture. - Garnishes to enhance presentation: A few fresh basil leaves on top make it look great. You can also add lime wedges. They add a fresh kick when squeezed on the dish. These small touches make your meal stand out. For a full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_2}} You can easily change up this recipe by using different proteins. Instead of chicken, try shrimp, beef, or tofu. Each protein brings its own flair to the dish. If you want a vegetarian or vegan version, use firm tofu or tempeh. These options soak up the sauce well and still taste great. For alternate vegetables, think about adding snap peas or broccoli. These veggies add nice crunch and color. You can mix and match to find your favorite combo. Don't be afraid to get creative! To add more depth to your dish, consider adding nuts like cashews or peanuts. This adds texture and a rich flavor. You can also try spices like cumin or coriander for a new twist. Just a pinch can make a big difference. Using different sauces can also change the flavor profile. Try adding hoisin sauce for sweetness or chili garlic sauce for extra heat. Each change can create a unique meal. Explore these options to find what you love most. If you want the full recipe, check it out [here](#). To keep Spicy Thai Basil Chicken fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. When you reheat it, use a skillet or microwave. Heat until the chicken is warm all the way through. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry it out. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet for the best taste. Enjoy your Spicy Thai Basil Chicken again with a fresh flavor! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. What is the origin of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken? Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai, comes from Thailand. It is a popular street food. Thai basil gives it a unique flavor. The dish is quick and easy to make, making it a favorite for many. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh? You can use dried basil, but fresh is best. Fresh Thai basil has a strong taste. Dried basil may lack the same depth. If you use dried, add less because it is more potent. How can I make it milder or spicier? To make it milder, use fewer chilies. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies. For more heat, add extra bird's eye chilies. Taste as you go to find your right balance. What sides pair well with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken? This dish goes well with jasmine rice. You can also serve it with a side salad. Stir-fried vegetables are a great choice too. They add color and crunch to your meal. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it ahead. Cook the chicken and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving. The flavors will meld and taste great. How to properly stir-fry? To stir-fry, heat your pan until it is very hot. Add oil, then your ingredients quickly. Keep the food moving to cook evenly. This prevents burning and ensures a nice texture. What equipment do I need for this recipe? You need a large skillet or wok. A spatula is great for stirring. A cutting board and knife will help with prep. Having everything ready makes cooking easier. For more detailed cooking instructions, refer to the Full Recipe. This article covered how to make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken. You learned about the key ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. We shared tips for authentic flavor and fun variations. You can store this dish safely for later use. Cooking this meal can be a joyful experience. I hope you try it and enjoy every bite!

- Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Savor the flavors of Thailand with this delicious Spicy Thai Basil Chicken recipe! Made with tender chicken thighs, aromatic garlic, and fresh Thai basil, this dish is quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a mouthwatering meal that pairs beautifully with jasmine rice. Click through to discover the full recipe and bring a taste of Thailand to your kitchen tonight!

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 Thai bird's eye chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon fish sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions
 

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

    Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sliced bird's eye chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

      Add the sliced chicken thighs to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.

        Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper is tender but still crisp.

          In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken and peppers, tossing everything together until well combined.

            Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves until wilted.

              Serve the Spicy Thai Basil Chicken over cooked jasmine rice for a complete meal.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

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