Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Are you ready to spice up your weeknight dinner? Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is the perfect mix of bold flavors and simple steps. You can whip it up in no time! This dish features tender chicken, fragrant Thai basil, and just the right amount of heat. I’ll guide you through easy ingredients and cooking methods, so you can enjoy a delicious meal that impresses everyone. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

– 1 lb boneless chicken breast

– 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil

– 4 cloves garlic

– 2-3 red Thai chilies

– 1 medium bell pepper

– 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

Sauces and Seasoning

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon fish sauce

– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

Serving Suggestions

– Cooked jasmine rice

– Optional garnishes (lime wedges, extra Thai basil, sliced red chili)

When making Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, use fresh and high-quality ingredients. Fresh Thai basil adds a unique taste. The red Thai chilies bring heat but adjust them for your spice level. I suggest starting with fewer chilies if you prefer milder dishes.

The sauces are key to flavor. Low-sodium soy sauce helps balance saltiness without being overpowering. Fish sauce adds depth, while oyster sauce gives a nice umami touch. Don’t forget the sugar! It balances the salty flavors and enhances the overall taste.

As for serving, I love pairing this dish with fluffy jasmine rice. It absorbs the sauce well. Adding lime wedges and extra basil gives it a fresh twist. You can also serve it with sliced red chili for those who want more heat.

For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Slice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.

– Mince garlic and chop chilies.

Start by slicing your chicken breast into small, even pieces. This helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly. Next, mince four cloves of garlic and chop two to three red Thai chilies. If you want less heat, remove the seeds from the chilies.

Cooking Process

– Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok.

– Stir-fry garlic and chilies.

– Cook chicken until no longer pink.

– Add bell pepper and sauté.

Heat two to three tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and chopped chilies. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced chicken. Cook the chicken for about five to seven minutes until it is no longer pink. This step is key to getting that nice sear. After that, toss in your sliced bell pepper and sauté for another two minutes. This adds color and crunch.

Sauce Integration and Finishing Touches

– Whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.

– Combine with chicken and bell pepper.

– Fold in Thai basil and serve.

In a small bowl, whisk together two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of fish sauce, one tablespoon of oyster sauce, and one teaspoon of sugar until the sugar dissolves. Pour this sauce over the chicken and bell pepper mixture. Stir well to coat everything in flavor. Finally, fold in one cup of fresh Thai basil leaves, stirring quickly until the basil wilts. Serve your dish hot over jasmine rice. For extra flair, you can garnish with more basil and slices of chili. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To make your Spicy Thai Basil Chicken shine, start with well-seared chicken. Heat your skillet or wok until hot. This helps the chicken cook evenly and sear nicely. A good sear adds flavor and texture.

Timing is key for the garlic. Add it to the hot oil first. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds. This brings out its aroma. Be careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin your dish.

Spice Level Adjustments

Want to change the heat? Adjust the number of chilies. For less spice, use one chili. For more heat, add two or three. You can also deseed the chilies for a milder taste.

If you prefer mild peppers, try bell peppers or banana peppers. They add flavor without the heat. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish at their own spice level.

Enhancing Flavor

Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Select ripe bell peppers and fresh Thai basil. This boosts the dish’s taste and aroma. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall eating experience.

When choosing sauces, look for quality brands. Low-sodium soy sauce is a smart choice. It helps control saltiness while keeping flavor. Combine it with fish sauce and oyster sauce for depth. These choices bring authenticity to your meal. For more tips, check the [Full Recipe].

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can swap chicken for tofu or shrimp. Tofu absorbs flavors well and offers a nice texture. Just press it to remove water before cooking. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a delightful taste. If you want other meats, consider beef or pork. They both work well, too. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they are cooked through.

Vegetarian/Vegan Version

For a plant-based option, use meat substitutes like tempeh or seitan. They mimic chicken’s texture and taste. To balance flavors without fish sauce, try soy sauce and a splash of lime juice. You can even add a bit of miso for depth. Fresh herbs will also help enhance the dish.

Cooking Methods

You can use an Instant Pot or slow cooker to make this dish. Both options save time and infuse flavor. Just follow the same steps but adjust cooking times based on your appliance. If you prefer a healthier method, try oven-baking. Spread the ingredients on a baking sheet and cook until the meat is done. This method allows for a lighter meal while keeping flavors intact.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the dish cool. Place it in a container with a lid. The fridge is best for short-term storage. You can keep it for 3 to 4 days. I recommend using glass containers. They help keep the food fresh and safe.

Reheating Guidelines

When reheating, the microwave is quick and easy. Use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking. Stir often to ensure even heating. You want the chicken warm but not dry.

Freezing Tips

For long-term storage, freezing is great. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

What to serve with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

You want to pair this dish with the right sides. Here are some popular options:

– Jasmine rice: This fluffy rice absorbs the sauce well.

– Stir-fried vegetables: Add color and crunch to your meal.

– Spring rolls: A crunchy and fresh starter to enjoy.

– Cucumber salad: This cool salad balances the spice perfectly.

How to make this dish less spicy?

If the heat is too much, you can adjust it. Here are some easy tips:

– Remove seeds from chilies: This cuts down the heat.

– Use fewer chilies: Start with one or two, then taste.

– Add sugar: A little sweetness can help tone down spice.

– Serve with yogurt: This can cool your mouth if it’s too hot.

Can I use dried Thai basil instead?

Yes, you can use dried Thai basil. However, the flavor will change. Fresh basil gives a bright taste. Dried basil is more muted. For best results, use fresh when you can.

What is the origin of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai, is a Thai classic. It comes from street food culture in Thailand. This dish highlights the bold flavors of Thai cuisine. Thai basil, chilies, and garlic make it special. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free. Here’s how:

– Use gluten-free soy sauce: Check the label to ensure it’s safe.

– Choose a gluten-free oyster sauce: Many brands offer this.

– Avoid sauces with wheat: Always read labels for safe options.

In this post, we explored how to make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken. We discussed essential ingredients, sauces, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips for texture and spice adjustments, plus variations to suit different diets. Don’t forget about storage options for leftovers and reheating tips.

This dish is fun to make and tastes amazing. You can easily customize it to your liking. Try it out, and enjoy a burst of bold flavors in your meal!

- Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Zesty Spicy Thai Basil Chicken with this easy recipe! A quick stir-fry featuring tender chicken, fresh Thai basil, and a spicy kick from red chilies, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll be savoring a delicious dish served over fluffy jasmine rice. Click through to explore this delightful recipe and bring a taste of Thailand to your kitchen!

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Ingredients

  

1 lb boneless chicken breast, thinly sliced into bite-sized pieces

2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (canola or peanut oil works well)

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2-3 red Thai chilies, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust to your desired heat level)

1 medium bell pepper, sliced (choose your favorite color for a vibrant dish)

1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, loosely packed

2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)

1 tablespoon fish sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 teaspoon granulated sugar (or palm sugar for an authentic taste)

Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions

 

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, ensuring it's hot enough to cook the chicken efficiently.

Add the minced garlic and chopped red Thai chilies to the oil. Stir-fry for approximately 30 seconds, or until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Introduce the sliced chicken to the skillet, spreading it out in an even layer. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is cooked through and loses all pinkness, creating a nice sear.

Once the chicken is fully cooked, toss in the sliced bell pepper. Sauté together for another 2 minutes, allowing the bell pepper to soften slightly while retaining its crunch.

In a separate small bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar, whisking well to dissolve the sugar. Pour this savory sauce over the chicken and bell pepper mixture, stirring thoroughly to coat everything in flavor.

Gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves. Stir quickly until the basil wilts and turns bright green, approximately 1 minute. Remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking the herbs.

Serve your Zesty Spicy Thai Basil Chicken piping hot over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice, ensuring each plate is generously topped with the aromatic sauce for maximum flavor.

- Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, consider garnishing the dish with additional Thai basil leaves and a few slices of red chili on top. Serve alongside lime wedges for a zesty squeeze of freshness, enhancing the overall experience!

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