Name: Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: Flavorful 30 Min Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1/3 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 teaspoons fish sauce; 1 teaspoon white sugar; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, coarsely chopped; 1/4 cup sliced shallots; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons minced Thai chilies; 1 cup very thinly sliced fresh basil leaves; 2 cups hot cooked rice

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken has a way of transporting me straight back to the bustling streets of Bangkok. I remember the first time I tried authentic Pad Krapow Gai from a tiny street cart – the aroma alone was intoxicating! The perfect balance of fiery chilies, savory sauce, and fragrant basil clinging to tender chicken was pure magic. This incredibly quick and easy Thai basil chicken recipe brings that vibrant street food experience right into my own kitchen. It’s the best Thai basil chicken recipe I’ve found for a weeknight meal when you crave something bold and exciting. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

This Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a weeknight game-changer, and here’s why:

It’s incredibly quick, ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
The flavor explosion is unreal – savory, spicy, and super aromatic.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy an authentic Thai basil chicken dish at home.
You can easily adjust the heat level to your preference.
It’s versatile enough to be served over rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
This Thai basil chicken stir fry with holy basil offers a complex taste that’s hard to beat.
It uses simple, accessible ingredients for a truly home-style Thai basil chicken experience.
It’s a satisfying and flavorful main dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: Flavorful 30 Min Meal - Spicy Thai Basil Chicken - main visual representation

Ingredients for Authentic Thai Basil Chicken

Making this authentic Thai basil chicken recipe is surprisingly simple with just a few key components. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious chicken with Thai basil and chili:

1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, coarsely chopped – Thighs stay tender and juicy, perfect for stir-frying.
1/3 cup chicken broth – This forms the base of our savory sauce.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Adds a deep umami flavor and slight sweetness.
1 tablespoon soy sauce – For that classic salty, savory foundation.
2 teaspoons fish sauce – Essential for authentic Thai flavor; don’t skip this!
1 teaspoon white sugar – Balances the saltiness and spice.
1 teaspoon brown sugar – Adds a touch more depth and caramelization.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For stir-frying at high heat.
1/4 cup sliced shallots – Milder and sweeter than onion, they add a lovely aromatic note.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must for any stir fry!
2 tablespoons minced Thai chilies – The star for making it spicy! Adjust to your heat preference.
1 cup very thinly sliced fresh basil leaves – Thai holy basil is traditional, but sweet basil works too. This is where the magic happens!

How to Make Pad Krapow Gai

Let’s get this delicious Thai basil chicken stir fry cooking! It’s a straightforward process that rewards you with incredible flavor in minutes. Follow these steps for an authentic taste of Thailand.

Step 1: First, gather all your ingredients and prepare your sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/3 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 teaspoons fish sauce, 1 teaspoon white sugar, and 1 teaspoon brown sugar until everything is well combined and the sugars have dissolved. Set this flavor powerhouse aside.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat until it’s smoking hot. This high heat is crucial for that authentic stir-fry char. Add the 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and let it get shimmering hot, about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Carefully add the 1 pound coarsely chopped chicken thighs to the screaming hot skillet. Stir-fry vigorously, breaking up any large pieces, until the chicken just loses its raw appearance, about 2-3 minutes. You want a nice sear on the chicken.
Step 4: Toss in the 1/4 cup sliced shallots, 4 cloves minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons minced Thai chilies. Continue stir-frying over high heat for another 2-3 minutes. Keep things moving; you’re looking for the shallots to soften and the garlic and chilies to become fragrant, maybe even a little caramelized at the bottom of the pan. The aroma at this stage is amazing!
Step 5: Pour about a tablespoon of your prepared sauce mixture into the skillet. Let it bubble and caramelize against the hot pan for about 1 minute. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your Spicy Thai Basil Chicken.
Step 6: Pour in the rest of the sauce. Stir everything together as the sauce deglazes the pan, lifting any tasty bits from the bottom. Continue cooking until the sauce reduces slightly and coats the chicken in a glossy, delectable finish, about 1-2 minutes more. This makes your Thai chili basil chicken stir fry look and taste incredible.
Step 7: Remove the pan from the heat immediately. Add the 1 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves. Stir gently until the basil just wilts, which should only take about 20 seconds. You want to preserve its fresh, aromatic flavor.
Step 8: Serve your glorious Spicy Thai Basil Chicken right away over 2 cups hot cooked rice. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken with Thai Basil and Chili

Want to elevate your Spicy Thai Basil Chicken game? These tips will ensure you get that perfect authentic flavor and texture every time.

Use chicken thighs! They stay incredibly moist and tender compared to breast meat in a high-heat stir fry.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it sears properly instead of steaming.
Have everything prepped and ready before you start cooking. This dish cooks lightning fast!
Adjust the chilies to your heat preference. For a milder dish, use fewer chilies or remove the seeds.

What’s the secret to perfect Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

The real magic lies in the high heat and quick cooking. Getting a good sear on the chicken and allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly at the bottom of the pan are key. This creates the signature depth of flavor for an authentic Pad Krapow Gai.

Can I make this Thai chili basil chicken stir fry ahead of time?

While the best flavor comes from cooking it fresh, you can prep the sauce and chop the ingredients a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the dish just before serving for optimal texture and aroma.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Easy Thai Basil Chicken?

A common pitfall is using chicken breast, which can become dry. Another mistake is not using high enough heat, leading to steamed rather than stir-fried chicken. Finally, don’t overcook the basil; add it at the very end off the heat to preserve its fresh flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Spicy Chicken Stir Fry Thai Style

This vibrant Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is incredibly versatile and shines when paired with the right accompaniments. For a classic experience, serve it piping hot over fluffy jasmine rice. The rice perfectly soaks up the delicious, spicy sauce, making every bite a delight. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try serving this chicken with Thai basil and chili over steamed cauliflower rice or even quinoa. For a truly authentic meal, consider adding a simple side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or a cooling Thai cucumber salad to balance the heat of this fantastic spicy chicken stir fry Thai style dish.

Nutrition Facts for Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

This Spicy Thai Basil Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 930mg

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your authentic Pad Krapow Gai recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Home-style Thai Basil Chicken

Properly storing and reheating your delicious home-style Thai basil chicken ensures you can enjoy its vibrant flavors even days later. Once cooked, let the dish cool completely at room temperature for about an hour. Then, transfer the Spicy Thai Basil Chicken into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of this spicy ground chicken Thai basil dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and it should last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating and prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Authentic Pad Krapow Gai Recipe

What is Pad Krapow Gai?

Pad Krapow Gai is the Thai name for this beloved dish, translating to “stir-fried basil with chicken.” It’s a staple in Thai street food and home kitchens, celebrated for its intense flavors. This authentic Pad Krapow Gai recipe captures the essence of that classic Thai experience.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

While chicken thighs are recommended for their superior moisture and tenderness in this high-heat stir fry, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Just be extra careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out quickly. A quick sear followed by immediate sauce addition is key for a good easy Thai basil chicken.

What kind of basil is best for this Thai chili basil chicken stir fry?

Traditionally, this dish uses Thai holy basil, which has a distinct peppery, slightly anise-like flavor that’s truly unique. If you can’t find holy basil, sweet basil is a good substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. Both will still result in a delicious chicken with Thai basil and chili.

How can I make this Spicy Thai Basil Chicken less spicy?

To reduce the heat in your spicy chicken stir fry Thai style, simply use fewer Thai chilies. You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the chilies before mincing them, as this is where most of the capsaicin (the heat) resides. Start with just one or two chilies and add more to taste.

Variations of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken You Can Try

While this authentic Thai basil chicken recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to experiment! Here are a few ways to switch things up for a new twist on your favorite spicy Thai basil chicken dish.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Swap the chicken for firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, or for hearty mushrooms like shiitake. Use a vegan oyster sauce and soy sauce to keep it plant-based. This makes a delicious spicy holy basil chicken stir fry alternative!
Different Protein: Ground turkey or even thinly sliced pork tenderloin can be used instead of chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time slightly for the protein you choose.
Low-Carb Version: Serve this stir fry over cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles for a lighter, low-carbohydrate meal. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of this quick Thai basil chicken recipe without the carbs.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or thinly sliced carrots along with the shallots and garlic for added color and nutrition.