Add a burst of exotic flavor to your dinner routine with this easy and authentic Thai Basil Chicken recipe! This dish transforms simple ingredients into a fragrant and spicy delight with the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Why You'll Love This Flavorful Dish
- Quick and Simple. Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Effortless Preparation. Minimal chopping and cooking for a no-fuss experience.
- Incredibly Flavorful. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and chilies creates an aromatic and delicious meal.
With the magic of stir-frying, you'll achieve that desirable mix of tender chicken and crisp vegetables, making it a healthier option that doesn't sacrifice taste.
What Does Thai Basil Chicken Taste Like?
Thai Basil Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that offers a delightful mix of savory, spicy, and fresh notes. It's a well-balanced meal that excites the palate with its depth and complexity, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy bold and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Ground Chicken- The main protein of the dish, ground chicken absorbs the flavors well.
- Thai Basil- Essential for its distinctive flavor and fragrance. Regular basil can be substituted if necessary.
- Garlic- Adds a pungent, savory depth to the dish.
- Bird's Eye Chilies- Provides the spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.
- Onion- Adds sweetness and texture.
- Bell Pepper- Optional, for extra color and crunch.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce- Adds saltiness and umami.
- Fish Sauce- Contributes a unique depth of flavor and authenticity.
- Oyster Sauce- Adds a rich, savory sweetness.
- Brown Sugar- Balances the saltiness and enhances the overall taste.
- Water- Helps blend the sauce ingredients together.
How To Make Thai Basil Chicken
- Prepare the Ingredients. Start by mincing the garlic and slicing the chilies and onion. Wash and pick the Thai basil leaves from the stems.
- Make the Sauce. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cook the Chicken. Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil, then sauté the garlic and chilies until fragrant. Add the ground chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add Vegetables. Stir in the onion and bell pepper (if using) and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Combine and Stir-Fry. Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another few minutes until the sauce is slightly reduced and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Basil. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil just right.
- Serve. Serve hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice and top with a fried egg for an authentic touch.
Tips And Tricks
Perfecting Thai Basil Chicken is about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flavorful and satisfying:
- Fresh Basil. Use fresh Thai basil for the best flavor. If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil or holy basil can be used as substitutes.
- Control the Heat. Adjust the number of chilies according to your heat preference. Removing the seeds can also reduce spiciness.
- High Heat Cooking. Stir-frying over high heat ensures the chicken cooks quickly and remains tender.
Variations
Thai Basil Chicken can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some creative variations:
- Vegetarian- Substitute chicken with tofu or a mix of mushrooms.
- Low Carb- Serve over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice.
- Add More Vegetables- Include vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition and color.
What To Serve With Thai Basil Chicken
Thai Basil Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some great options:
- Jasmine Rice- The classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fried Egg- Traditionally served on top, adding richness and texture.
- Cucumber Salad- A refreshing side that complements the spicy chicken.
How Long Does It Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through before serving.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, Thai Basil Chicken can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a pan over medium heat until hot.
More Amazing Asian-Inspired Dishes
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Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Chicken
- 1 cup Thai Basil, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 3 Bird's Eye Chilies, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Fish Sauce
- 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients. Start by mincing the garlic and slicing the chilies and onion. Wash and pick the Thai basil leaves from the stems.
- Make the Sauce. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cook the Chicken. Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil, then sauté the garlic and chilies until fragrant. Add the ground chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink (5-7 minutes), breaking it up with a spoon.
- Combine and Stir-Fry. Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another few minutes until the sauce is slightly reduced and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Basil. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil just right.
- Serve. Serve hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice and top with a fried egg for an authentic touch.
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Nutrition
Don't forget to check out my other Keto cookbooks.
Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats, and Easy keto in 30 minutes.
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