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Thai Basil Chicken bursts with bold flavors and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a must-try for anyone craving Thai cuisine in their own kitchen. Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or an old fan, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal with minimal prep and easy cleanup.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Thai Basil Chicken
- Perfect for busy weeknights and speedy meal prep
- Authentic taste with everyday ingredients
- Customizable spice levels
- Serves well with steamed jasmine rice
Equipment You’ll Need
- Wok or frying pans (shop)
- Chef’s knives (shop)
- Cutting board (shop)
- Kitchen utensils (shop)
- Measuring cups and spoons (shop)
- Mixing bowls (shop)
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thigh fillets | 225g / 7oz |
| Green onion | 1, cut into 2″ pieces |
| Thai basil leaves | 1 cup, loosely packed |
| Garlic cloves | 2, finely chopped |
| Birds eye/Thai chilli | 1, deseeded, chopped |
| Oil (peanut/veg/canola) | 1.5 tbsp |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tsp |
| Light soy sauce | 1 tsp |
| Dark soy sauce | 1 tsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Steamed jasmine rice | For serving |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, blend oyster sauce, light and dark soy sauce, sugar, and water until combined.
- Heat oil: Over high heat, add oil to your wok or frying pan (shop here).
- Sauté aromatics: Stir in garlic and chili for 10 seconds. Avoid inhaling directly as chili vapors can be strong!
- Cook chicken: Add chicken and white part of green onion. Fry for 2 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Pour sauce: Add mixed sauce and let simmer for 1 minute so it thickens to a glossy finish.
- Wilt basil: Toss in basil leaves and green onion tops. Stir briefly until just wilted.
- Serve: Dish immediately with steamed jasmine rice.
Tips for the Best Thai Basil Chicken
- Use Holy Basil for traditional flavor if you can source it.
- Substitute ground chicken for easy prepping.
- Adjust chili amounts for spice preference.
- For extra aroma, toss basil leaves in at the very end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast offers a leaner twist and absorbs flavor well.
Is Thai Basil Chicken spicy?
It depends just reduce the chili or add more depending on your family’s taste.
What can I serve with Thai Basil Chicken?
Steamed jasmine rice is always a classic choice!
Can I make this in a regular frying pan instead of a wok?
Yes, simply use a large, heavy-bottomed frying pan for even cooking.
Conclusion
Ready to spice up dinner? Try Thai Basil Chicken tonight and let us know how it turns out in the comments or share your photos on social media!
PrintThai Basil Chicken: 20-Minute Flavorful Dinner
Savory, aromatic Thai Basil Chicken with tender chicken thighs and fresh basil in a spicy, glossy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Total Time: 20 min
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients
225g / 7oz chicken thigh fillets, skinless boneless, cut into bite size pieces
1 green onion, cut into 2″ lengths
1 cup Thai basil leaves, loosely packed (Holy Basil if available)
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 birds eye or Thai chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
1.5 tbsp oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola)
2 tsp oyster sauce
1 tsp light soy sauce
1 tsp dark soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
2 tbsp water
Instructions
1. Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Heat oil in wok or pan over high heat.
3. Add garlic and chilli, cook 10 seconds.
4. Add chicken and white part of green onion, fry until cooked, about 2 minutes.
5. Add sauce, cook 1 minute until thick and glossy.
6. Toss in green onion tops and basil leaves, stir briefly until wilted.
7. Serve with steamed jasmine rice.
Notes
For authentic flavor, use Thai Holy Basil. Adjust chili for desired spice level. Serve immediately for best texture.
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