Thai Basil Chicken

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Sizzling with bold flavors, Thai Basil Chicken is a fast, fiery stir-fry that combines tender chicken, crisp bell peppers, and fresh basil leaves in a savory sauce. It’s the kind of meal that transforms your kitchen into a street-side Bangkok eatery, where every bite is packed with spice, sweetness, and a satisfying umami depth.

Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or aiming to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and tastes like it took all day. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, it delivers comfort, heat, and fragrance all in one satisfying plate.

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

Authentic Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) traditionally uses Thai holy basil. It has a slightly spicy, peppery kick that sets it apart from sweet Italian basil. However, if you can’t find holy basil, Thai basil or even regular basil will still bring that aromatic punch and freshness to your stir-fry.

Ingredients for the Thai Basil Chicken

Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Boneless and skinless, diced into bite-sized pieces. Thighs give more richness, while breasts offer a leaner option.

Thai Basil Leaves – The star of the dish! They lend the dish its unique flavor and fragrant aroma.

Garlic & Red Chili – For that unmistakable heat and depth; adjust chilies to taste.

Bell Peppers (Red & Yellow) – Adds crunch, sweetness, and a pop of color to balance the spicy, savory notes.

Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; opt for light soy sauce for seasoning.

Oyster Sauce – Rich, thick, and packed with umami, this is a key flavor enhancer.

Fish Sauce – Brings authentic Thai saltiness and complexity.

Brown Sugar – A touch of sweetness balances the heat and saltiness.

Oil – For stir-frying. Use vegetable or canola oil.

Cooked Jasmine Rice – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

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How To Make the Thai Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Aromatics

Mince the garlic and slice the red chilies. If you’re heat-sensitive, remove the seeds from the chilies or reduce the quantity.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until golden brown and nearly cooked through, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flavor Base

Toss in the garlic and chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant—around 30 seconds to 1 minute—taking care not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Stir in the Sauce

Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to coat all the chicken pieces in the sauce.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Toss in the chopped bell peppers and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, until just tender but still crisp.

Step 6: Finish with Thai Basil

Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. Let the residual heat wilt the leaves into the dish.

Step 7: Serve It Hot

Spoon the Thai basil chicken over warm jasmine rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

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Serving and Storing Thai Basil Chicken

Serve this dish hot and fresh from the pan, ideally over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

What to Serve With Thai Basil Chicken?

Steamed Jasmine or Coconut Rice

The go-to pairing for soaking up that rich, savory sauce.

Thai Cucumber Salad

A cooling side with tangy, sweet, and fresh flavors to balance the heat.

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Crisp and light, they add a fun appetizer to your Thai night.

Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles

For a bolder twist on your dinner table.

Mango Sticky Rice

End your meal on a sweet, tropical note.

Stir-Fried Green Beans

Crunchy, salty greens that match the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

Thai Iced Tea

Cool and creamy, it mellows the heat with every sip.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving the savory-spicy combo in this Thai Basil Chicken, here are a few other recipes worth checking out next:

• Try our Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for a rich, hands-off dinner.
• Dive into Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs for a sweet-savory take with oven-baked ease.
• Our Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy makes a cozy, comforting meal any night of the week.
• Looking for something creamy and cheesy? The Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to hit the spot.
• Don’t skip the Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for pasta lovers craving extra flavor.

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added green beans or drizzled it with extra fish sauce? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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