When time is short but your taste buds crave something bold and satisfying, this Thai Basil Chicken is your go-to hero. Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish, it packs a punch with aromatic garlic, fiery chilies, and the fragrant kick of fresh Thai basil. Whether you’re a busy professional, a college student on the go, or a parent juggling family dinners, this dish will earn a permanent spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Thai Basil Chicken recipe is more than just quick and easy—it’s a flavor bomb that wakes up your senses in the best way. The combination of savory sauces, tender chicken, and the peppery sweetness of Thai basil creates a deliciously authentic Thai street food experience right at home. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Speedy & Satisfying: From prep to plate in just 20 minutes.
- Minimal Ingredients: No need for a long shopping list.
- Incredible Flavor: The trio of soy, oyster, and fish sauce gives it a rich umami depth.
- Versatile: Great with rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the chilies to suit your spice tolerance.
This dish strikes that perfect balance between bold and comforting. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back.
Ingredients
To make this Thai Basil Chicken, you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced cucumber
- Fried egg (Thai style)
- Lime wedges
Necessary Tools
You don’t need fancy gadgets to whip up this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spatula or heatproof spoon
- Small bowl (for mixing the sauce)
- Rice cooker or pot (for jasmine rice)
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Don’t have Thai basil? Substitute with sweet basil or even holy basil if you can find it.
Low sodium? Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the saltiness.
Want it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Replace fish and oyster sauces with mushroom sauce and a splash of soy.
Add veggies: Try adding bell peppers, green beans, or shredded carrots for a colorful boost.
Make it saucier: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chicken broth or water to the sauce mixture if you prefer more liquid.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Oil
Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
2. Cook the Chicken
Add the thinly sliced chicken and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Make sure to spread the chicken out in the pan so it sears rather than steams.
3. Add Garlic and Chilies
Toss in the minced garlic and sliced chilies. Stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Mix and Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Pour the sauce into the pan and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
5. Add the Thai Basil
Turn off the heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves. Stir just until they wilt and release their aroma.
6. Serve
Spoon the Thai Basil Chicken over hot jasmine rice. Garnish with optional toppings like a fried egg or cucumber slices.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high heat for quick stir-frying; it locks in flavor and gives that slight char.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear.
- Slice the chicken thinly for even and fast cooking.
- Prep everything first, as this dish cooks quickly.
- Adjust the heat by removing chili seeds or using milder peppers.
Serving Suggestions
- Traditional: Serve it simply over jasmine rice with a crispy Thai-style fried egg.
- Healthy Twist: Try it with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
- Fusion Fun: Use it as a filling for Asian-style tacos or wraps.
- Side Pairings: Serve with a light cucumber salad or spring rolls.
Storing and Reheating
- To Store: Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Microwave for 1–2 minutes or stir-fry in a skillet until hot.
- Freezing: Not ideal, as basil loses its flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g (not including rice)
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
FAQs
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of sliced? Absolutely. Ground chicken cooks even faster and works great in this recipe.
2. Is this dish very spicy? It can be! Adjust the chilies to control the heat.
3. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If preparing ahead, add basil just before serving.
4. What’s the difference between Thai basil and regular basil? Thai basil has a spicier, more anise-like flavor, while regular basil is sweeter and milder.
5. What rice is best to serve with Thai Basil Chicken? Jasmine rice is the most traditional and aromatic choice.
Conclusion
With its rich umami flavors, minimal prep, and quick cook time, Thai Basil Chicken is the perfect weeknight meal. It delivers restaurant-quality taste with home-cooked simplicity. Whether you like it fiery or mild, traditional or with a twist, it’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites.
Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish proves that fast food can be fresh, healthy, and insanely delicious.
