Thai Basil Chicken

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If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that brings the sizzle of Thai street food into your kitchen, Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) is the perfect recipe. This spicy, garlicky, and deeply savory stir-fry gets its bold character from fresh basil and a punchy sauce. Every bite is full of satisfying heat and fragrant herbs, making it a guaranteed favorite for busy weeknights.

With just a handful of ingredients and a hot wok, you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes. It pairs effortlessly with fluffy jasmine rice and a crispy fried egg on top for that authentic touch. Whether you’re already a Thai food lover or just exploring Southeast Asian flavors, this dish delivers big flavor with little effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Chicken

This recipe is an absolute lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want something intensely delicious. It’s naturally dairy-free, budget-friendly, and versatile enough for leftovers. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking, so it’s family-friendly too. Plus, the fragrance of fresh Thai basil is truly irresistible—it elevates the entire dish into something special.

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What Kind of Basil Should I Use for Thai Basil Chicken?

While sweet basil might be more accessible in U.S. grocery stores, true Thai basil makes a noticeable difference. Thai basil has a slightly spicy, anise-like flavor that complements the garlic, chilies, and savory sauce beautifully. If you can find it at an Asian market or specialty store, it’s absolutely worth using.

If not, Italian basil will work in a pinch, but the result won’t have quite the same depth of authenticity. You can also experiment with holy basil, if available, for a more peppery, traditional take.

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Ingredients for the Thai Basil Chicken

Each ingredient in Thai Basil Chicken plays a key role in building the iconic flavor and texture of this dish. Here’s what you need and why:

• Chicken (preferably ground or thinly sliced thigh meat): Juicy and flavorful, chicken thigh meat stays tender and absorbs all the sauce beautifully.
• Thai Basil Leaves: This herb adds the signature peppery, slightly licorice taste. It’s the soul of the dish.
• Garlic: Essential for that bold base flavor; use a generous amount.
• Thai Bird’s Eye Chilies (or red chili flakes): Brings the heat. Adjust based on your spice preference.
• Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth.
• Oyster Sauce: Brings a slightly sweet, umami-rich body to the sauce.
• Fish Sauce: Adds authentic salty, funky richness. Use sparingly if you’re new to it.
• Sugar (white or brown): Balances the salt and spice with a touch of sweetness.
• Neutral Oil (like canola or vegetable): For high-heat stir-frying.
• Water or Chicken Broth: Helps loosen the sauce and coat the chicken evenly.

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How To Make the Thai Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients First

Get everything chopped and ready before heating the pan. Slice the chicken if using thighs, mince your garlic, and have sauces pre-measured. Thai cooking goes fast!

Step 2: Sizzle the Garlic and Chilies

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Cook Through

Toss in your chicken and break it up if ground. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Sauces and Simmer

Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and a splash of water or broth. Stir well and simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything is coated.

Step 5: Stir in Thai Basil Last

Turn off the heat and toss in your basil. Stir until wilted and vibrant. Serve immediately over rice and top with a fried egg for the ultimate experience.

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How to Serve and Store Thai Basil Chicken

Thai Basil Chicken is best served immediately while it’s hot and aromatic. For a complete Thai-style meal, spoon it over freshly steamed jasmine rice and top it with a crispy fried egg. The egg yolk adds a silky richness that ties the dish together beautifully.

This recipe serves 3 to 4 people, making it great for family dinners or meal prep. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.

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What to Serve With Thai Basil Chicken?

Jasmine Rice

The soft, fluffy texture of jasmine rice perfectly absorbs the bold, savory sauce of the chicken.

Fried Egg

Crispy edges and runny yolk—it’s the classic pairing that takes this dish to the next level.

Thai Cucumber Salad

A refreshing side with vinegar, sugar, and a crunch that balances the heat.

Stir-Fried Morning Glory

This garlicky, crisp veggie dish adds green balance and complements the spicy chicken.

Spring Rolls

Light and crispy, these make for a fun starter or side.

Thai Iced Tea

Cool down the heat with a sweet, milky Thai iced tea.

Pineapple Chunks

Their sweetness refreshes the palate between spicy bites.

Quick Pickled Veggies

Tangy, cold veggies like carrots and radish bring zing and contrast.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Thai Basil Chicken, here are some other flavorful options worth trying next:

• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for a hearty bite-sized explosion of flavor.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re craving something rich and comforting.
• Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken when you want a restaurant-style meal at home.
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna for a spicy and cheesy fusion twist.
• Homemade Pollo Loco Juicy Chicken packed with citrus and spice.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add bell peppers or keep it classic? Try it with ground turkey or tofu?

I love seeing how you personalize these dishes. Questions are welcome too—let’s cook smarter together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and bold Thai recipes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy meal.

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