Name: Thai Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 225 g chicken thigh fillets, skinless boneless, cut into bite size pieces; 1 green onion, cut into 4cm lengths; 1 cup Thai basil leaves, loosely packed ((Holy Basil if you can find it)); 2 garlic cloves, large, 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 or all purpose; 1 tsp sugar; 2 tbsp water; Steamed jasmine rice

Introduction to Thai Basil Chicken

What is Thai Basil Chicken and Why You’ll Love It?

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that perfectly balances spicy, garlicky, and savory flavors, Thai Basil Chicken is your go-to! Hailing from the bustling streets of Thailand, this quick stir-fry uses tender chicken thighs and fragrant Thai basil to create a meal that's both comforting and invigorating. The magic lies in the sauce—a delightful blend of oyster and soy sauces, sweetened just right.

Not only is it remarkably simple to whip up (you’ll need just 15 minutes!), but you also don’t have to worry about hunting down unusual ingredients. Most of what you need can be found at your local grocery store. This recipe is versatile enough to suit your tastes; whether you prefer it hotter with extra chilies or milder, the decision is in your hands.

Plus, it’s a healthy option packed with protein and bursting with flavor. You can easily pair it with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal that will impress even the toughest food critics at your dining table. Ready to bring a taste of Thailand to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken

Creating a delicious Thai Basil Chicken dish is easier than you might think! Here’s a rundown of the essential ingredients that will bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand right to your dining table.

Chicken Thigh Fillets: For a juicy, tender texture, use 225g (7oz) of skinless, boneless chicken thigh fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken thighs are ideal for stir-frys thanks to their flavor and moisture retention.
Herbs and Aromatics: The star of the dish is 1 cup of Thai basil leaves—try to find Holy Basil if you can. Add 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped, and 1 birds eye chili, deseeded and chopped for a spicy kick.
Vegetables: Slice 1 green onion into 4cm (2") lengths to add crunch and freshness.
Cooking Oil: Use 1½ tablespoons of peanut, vegetable, or canola oil for frying.
Sauce Ingredients: Mix 2 teaspoons of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of light soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dark soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water for that savory-sweet finish.

Pair your dish with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal! For tips on sourcing these ingredients, check out your local Asian grocery store for the best selection of Thai herbs and sauces. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Preparing Thai Basil Chicken

Making Thai Basil Chicken at home can be a delightful experience that transports you straight to the bustling street markets of Thailand. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a vibrant, aromatic dish in no time!

Gather your ingredients

Before you start cooking, ensure you have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Thai Basil Chicken recipe:

225g (7oz) chicken thigh fillets, skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 green onion, cut into 4cm (2”) lengths
1 cup Thai basil leaves, loosely packed (Holy Basil if available)
2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 birds eye or Thai chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
1½ tablespoon oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola)

For the sauce:

2 teaspoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon light soy sauce
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (or all-purpose)
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoon water

Having everything prepped saves time and hassle, letting you focus on cooking. You can find many of these ingredients at local Thai grocery stores or larger supermarkets. If you're keen to learn more about sourcing authentic ingredients, visit resources from Serious Eats and Thai Food Tonight.

Prepare the sauce

In a small bowl, combine the sauce ingredients: oyster sauce, light and dark soy sauces, sugar, and water. Mix them well until the sugar dissolves. This fragrant sauce is the heart of your Thai Basil Chicken, offering that signature savory-sweet balance we all love.

Sauté the aromatics

Heat 1½ tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. When the oil is hot, add the finely chopped garlic and Thai chilli. Be careful not to inhale too deeply—garlic and chilli can create quite a kick! Stir-fry these for about 10 seconds until fragrant. This step is essential as it sets the flavor foundation for your dish.

Cook the chicken

Next, add the white part of the chopped green onion and the chicken to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. This quick cook time works perfectly for bite-sized pieces, ensuring they stay juicy and tender.

Add the sauce and finish with basil

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, stirring it in to create a glossy coating. Cook for an additional minute to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Finally, toss in the green part of the green onions and the Thai basil leaves. Stir gently until the basil is just wilted, releasing its fragrant aroma.

And there you have it! Serve your Thai Basil Chicken immediately over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, and enjoy a taste of Thailand right from your kitchen. For an extra touch of authenticity, slice some fresh cucumber and tomato on the side—it's a refreshing complement to this spicy dish!

Variations on Thai Basil Chicken

Thai Basil Beef

For a delectable twist, try using beef instead of chicken in your Thai Basil Chicken recipe. Simply substitute thinly sliced beef sirloin or flank steak. The cooking method remains the same, but you'll enjoy a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the fragrant basil. You might even consider marinating the beef in the soy sauce mixture for extra depth. This variation is a great option for those who prefer beef or want to mix up their weeknight dinners.

Veggie Thai Basil Stir-Fry

For a meatless alternative, a Veggie Thai Basil Stir-Fry is a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal vegetables. Combine bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots with the usual garlic and chili. Toss in a generous handful of fresh Thai basil for that signature flavor. This dish not only caters to veggie lovers but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. Serve it over jasmine rice or quinoa for a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Looking for more authentic Thai recipes? Check out Serious Eats for inspiration!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Thai Basil Chicken

To elevate your Thai Basil Chicken experience, consider these handy tips:

Choose the Right Basil: If you can find Holy Basil, your dish will have a rich, peppery flavor that's fantastic. If not, regular Thai Basil will work just fine. You can usually find it at Asian grocery stores or even larger supermarkets.
Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients chopped and ready before starting to cook. This stir-fry comes together quickly, and you don’t want to be scrambling for ingredients once the wok is hot!
Control the Heat: Use high heat when cooking; it’s key for that smoky flavor. Keep an eye on the garlic to avoid burning, which can ruin your dish.

For more insights on Thai ingredients, check out this comprehensive guide on Thai herbs which might inspire your cooking journey!

Serving Suggestions for Thai Basil Chicken

When you’re ready to dive into your Thai Basil Chicken, consider these tasty serving ideas that enhance the dish while keeping it authentically Thai.

Perfect Pairing with Rice

Serve your Thai Basil Chicken on a bed of steamed jasmine rice for the ultimate experience. The fluffy texture absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully, making each bite delightful.

Fresh Accompaniments

Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes are classic sides that add a refreshing crunch to your meal. They help balance the heat of the chillies while adding vibrant colors to your plate.

Explore Vegetable Sides

For added nutrition, consider a side of sautéed or steamed greens, like bok choy or broccoli. This complements the protein-packed chicken while making your meal even more wholesome.

By following these serving suggestions, you can create a harmonious and satisfying dining experience every time you make this beloved Thai dish!

Time Breakdown for Thai Basil Chicken

Preparation Time

The prep time for this delicious Thai Basil Chicken is a swift 10 minutes. You’ll just need to chop some ingredients and mix the sauce, making it the perfect option for a busy weeknight.

Cooking Time

Once you're prepped, the cooking time is a quick 5 minutes. With a flash of high heat in the wok, your meal will be sizzling and ready to serve in no time.

Total Time

With both preparation and cooking, you’re looking at an easy Total Time of 15 minutes. This recipe makes it incredibly simple to whip up an authentic Thai dish right at home, leaving you more time to relax after your meal!

For more tips on making the perfect stir-fry, head over to Serious Eats for expert insights!

Nutritional Facts for Thai Basil Chicken

When you're indulging in a delicious Thai Basil Chicken, it’s good to be aware of its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick overview:

Calories

Each serving of this vibrant dish contains approximately 360 calories, making it a flavorful yet manageable option for dinner.

Protein

Packed with 19 grams of protein, this meal is a great way to fuel your evening, especially after a long day.

Sodium

Keep an eye on your sodium intake; each serving has about 588 mg of sodium, which is important for maintaining a healthy balance in your diet.

For more detailed nutritional insights, check out resources like Healthline or USDA FoodData Central, where you can dive deeper into the health aspects of your favorite ingredients.

FAQs about Thai Basil Chicken

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the traditional Thai Basil Chicken recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute other proteins. Pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option work perfectly. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose. For pork and beef, aim for around 3-4 minutes to ensure it's cooked through.

What if I can’t find Thai basil?

If you're struggling to track down Thai basil, don't fret! You can use regular sweet basil in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different, but the dish will still be delicious. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of fresh mint or a dash of anise to mimic that unique taste. It’s all about improvising with what you have.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness of your Thai Basil Chicken largely depends on the type and quantity of chili used. A single bird's eye chili provides a gentle heat, making the dish flavorful without overwhelming your palate. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can always start with half and adjust according to your taste. In the spirit of exploration, consider checking out this guide on adjusting spice levels for more tips!

Conclusion on Thai Basil Chicken

In summary, Thai Basil Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Thai street food right in your kitchen. With its spicy, garlicky notes and sweet undertones, it's sure to impress. Serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice for a delightful meal. For more Thai-inspired recipes, check out Serious Eats and Thai Food Master. Happy cooking!