Thai Basil Chicken

Name: Thai Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (thinly sliced); 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2-3 Thai bird chilies (chopped); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)

Sara LeeLast Updated: November 4, 2025

4 minutes read

Are you ready to savor the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine? Thai basil chicken, or “Pad Krapow Gai,” is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken with the fragrant notes of Thai basil. This quick, stir-fried dish is perfect for busy weeknights and will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. With its savory sauce and fresh herbs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 Thai bird chilies, chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 350 calories, 25g protein, 15g fat, and 30g carbohydrates. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Add minced garlic and chopped chilies; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Increase heat and add sliced chicken; stir-fry until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken; stir to coat evenly.
Add the fresh Thai basil leaves; stir-fry for another minute until the basil wilts.
Remove from heat and let stand for a minute.
Serve the Thai basil chicken hot over jasmine rice.
Garnish with additional basil leaves if desired.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Thai basil chicken!

Alternative Ingredients

If you can’t find Thai basil, you can substitute it with sweet basil; however, the flavor will differ. For those avoiding chicken, tofu or shrimp can also work well in this recipe, maintaining the essence of the dish while catering to dietary preferences.

Serving and Pairings

Thai basil chicken pairs perfectly with jasmine rice. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider pairing with spring rolls or a Thai soup.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Thai basil chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. While freezing is possible, it may affect the texture of the chicken and basil.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender, not dry.
Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried basil won’t yield the same results.
Adjust chili levels according to your spice preference.
Ensure your pan is hot enough to prevent sticking.
Don’t skip the sugar; it balances the flavors.
Stir-fry quickly to maintain the vibrant color of the basil.
Taste the sauce before adding to avoid overpowering flavors.

Helpful Tips

Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Use a wok for better heat distribution.
Chop vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
Experiment with different proteins or vegetables.
Garnish with lime wedges for a zesty kick.

FAQs

What is Thai basil?

Thai basil is a variety of basil native to Southeast Asia, known for its distinct flavor that includes hints of anise and clove. It’s a key ingredient in many Thai dishes and adds a unique aroma.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and the dish will still be delicious. Adjust the cooking time as needed for the substitute.

What can I serve with Thai basil chicken?

Thai basil chicken is best served with jasmine rice, but you can also pair it with rice noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness can be adjusted by altering the number of bird chilies used. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds.

Can I freeze Thai basil chicken?

While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the chicken and basil may change upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for a few days in the fridge.

Conclusion

Thai basil chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Thai cooking. With its aromatic herbs and savory sauce, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Try this recipe, and let the vibrant flavors take your taste buds on a delightful journey!