If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine to your home, look no further than Thai Basil Chicken. This dish is an absolute delight, marrying savory chicken with the bold, aromatic presence of fresh basil. The flavors dance on your palate, making every bite an adventure. One of the best parts? It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party.
The secret to elevating your Thai Basil Chicken lies in simple yet high-quality ingredients. With a perfect blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and fresh herbs, this recipe captures the essence of Thai flavors. Plus, it’s healthful—packed filled with lean protein and colorful vegetables that make this dish as nourishing as it is delicious. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade authenticity in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Chicken
This Thai Basil Chicken recipe is a quick and enticing way to enjoy a taste of Southeast Asia right at your dining table. Here are a few reasons to whip up this flavorful dish:
- Quick Preparation: You’ll have dinner ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic days.
- Bold Flavors: A harmonious mix of sauces and fresh basil creates a delicious explosion of taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personalized touch.
- Healthy Meal: Rich in protein and colorful vegetables, making it a nutritious option for any meal.
- Stir-Fry Ease: Easy cooking method that requires just one pan, reducing cleanup time.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparing to make Thai Basil Chicken is all about getting your kitchen and ingredients ready. Start by gathering your tools and ingredients. You’ll need a large frying pan or wok that allows for even cooking at high heat. It’s also essential to have a sharp knife for dicing the chicken and slicing the vegetables, as well as a sturdy cutting board.
Before cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepped: mince the garlic, thinly slice the shallots, chop the red chili, and slice the bell pepper. It’s also a good idea to measure out your sauces and have the chicken broth ready to go. With everything organized at your fingertips, preparing this dish will feel seamless and effective.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in your large pan over medium-high heat. The pan needs to be hot enough to achieve a nice sear on the chicken and flavors of the aromatics, but not so hot that ingredients burn. Wait for about a minute for the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s prime for cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the minced garlic, thinly sliced shallots, and finely chopped red chili into the hot oil. Stir-fry these ingredients for about 30 seconds, or until they release their fragrant aroma. Be careful not to allow the garlic to brown too much; you want a gentle cook that enhances its flavors without burning.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Next, toss in the chopped chicken thighs. Stir-fry them until browned and thoroughly cooked—this typically takes about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to ensure even cooking. The commitment to cooking the chicken just right will set the foundation for this dish’s rich flavor.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Once the chicken is cooked, add in the sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry this mixture for an additional 2 minutes. This step will not only soften the peppers slightly but will also introduce an added sweetness and crunch to your dish.
Step 5: Saucy Goodness
Now’s the time to transform your stir-fry into a flavor-packed treat! Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. Mix all the ingredients until they are well combined. Let this simmer for 1-2 minutes, giving the sauces a chance to meld together into a cohesive, delicious mixture.
Step 6: Final Touch with Basil
Finally, toss in the fresh basil leaves. Stir them into the hot pan, allowing them to wilt quickly. This will happen just after about 30 seconds of cooking—make sure not to overcook them as you want to retain their vibrant color and aroma. After everything is combined, take the pan off the heat.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. The flavors should balance beautifully, but feel free to adjust according to your preference. Serve the Thai Basil Chicken hot, and enjoy the aromatic bounty of flavors.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different protein. Each will bring its unique flavor profile to the dish.
- Vegetables: Incorporate other vibrant vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or zucchini for added texture and color.
- Spices: Adjust the heat by adding sriracha or red pepper flakes. For a fresher twist, consider lime zest or extra herbs.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Small pieces will cook quickly and become tender while staying juicy.
- Fresh basil is key in this recipe; avoid dried basil, as it does not offer the same bright flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over jasmine rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
Tips
- Prep all ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process smooth and quick.
- Adjust the level of spice according to your taste; some may love the heat, while others prefer a milder dish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
- Protein: 25g per serving
- Sodium: 850mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, by replacing the chicken with tofu and omitting fish sauce or using a plant-based soy sauce, you can easily make a vegetarian version.
What can I serve with Thai Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, sticky rice, or even noodles. A side of fresh vegetables or a light salad will complement it nicely.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container for best results. Thaw completely before reheating.
How can I store this dish?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
Thai Basil Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table in no time. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable, quick, and deeply satisfying. The harmony of spices, sauces, and fresh ingredients makes this dish a consistent favorite. Don’t hesitate to share your own variations or adaptations in the comments—let’s inspire each other! Get ready to enjoy this vibrant stir-fry with your loved ones; your taste buds will thank you!
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Thai Basil Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine to your home.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in your large pan over medium-high heat. The pan needs to be hot enough to achieve a nice sear on the chicken and flavors of the aromatics, but not so hot that ingredients burn. Wait for about a minute for the oil to shimmer, indicating it’s prime for cooking.
- Add the minced garlic, thinly sliced shallots, and finely chopped red chili into the hot oil. Stir-fry these ingredients for about 30 seconds, or until they release their fragrant aroma. Be careful not to allow the garlic to brown too much; you want a gentle cook that enhances its flavors without burning.
- Next, toss in the chopped chicken thighs. Stir-fry them until browned and thoroughly cooked—this typically takes about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently to ensure even cooking. The commitment to cooking the chicken just right will set the foundation for this dish’s rich flavor.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add in the sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry this mixture for an additional 2 minutes. This step will not only soften the peppers slightly but will also introduce an added sweetness and crunch to your dish.
- Now’s the time to transform your stir-fry into a flavor-packed treat! Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. Mix all the ingredients until they are well combined. Let this simmer for 1-2 minutes, giving the sauces a chance to meld together into a cohesive, delicious mixture.
- Finally, toss in the fresh basil leaves. Stir them into the hot pan, allowing them to wilt quickly. This will happen just after about 30 seconds of cooking—make sure not to overcook them as you want to retain their vibrant color and aroma. After everything is combined, take the pan off the heat.
- Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. The flavors should balance beautifully, but feel free to adjust according to your preference. Serve the Thai Basil Chicken hot, and enjoy the aromatic bounty of flavors.
Notes
Ensure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Fresh basil is key in this recipe; avoid dried basil, as it does not offer the same bright flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 25 g