This Easy Thai Basil Chicken, also known as Pad Krapow Gai, is a quick and tasty dish. It features juicy chicken, fresh basil, and a kick of flavor from garlic and chili peppers.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy in a hurry! I love serving it over rice, and my family fights over the extra basil leaves—I guess we’re all just a bit basil-crazy! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is great for a quick cook, but you could also use ground turkey or even cubed chicken breast if you prefer larger pieces. Just remember, chicken thighs will give a richer flavor!
Thai Bird’s Eye Chilies: These bring the heat, but if you can’t find them, red pepper flakes or jalapeños work, too. Adjust based on how spicy you like it. I sometimes use bell peppers for a milder touch!
Thai Basil: This gives the dish its distinct flavor. If you can’t find it, sweet basil can work in a pinch. You might miss that unique taste a bit, but it will still be delicious. Fresh is always best, though!
Oyster Sauce: A staple for umami flavor, but you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or even a bit more soy sauce if you need to keep things simple.
How Do I Cook Perfectly Flavored Chicken?
Cooking chicken to perfection is key to this dish. Start by heating the oil well; this helps seal in the juices. Add the garlic and chilies before the chicken for a flavor boost, as their aromas infuse the oil.
- Use medium-high heat for a nice sear; it keeps the chicken juicy while mixing in the flavors.
- Break up the chicken gently, and let it cook evenly—once it’s no longer pink, you’re ready for the sauces.
- Don’t rush the cooking of the sauces and liquids; let everything simmer a bit so the flavors develop. This is what makes each bite tasty!
Easy Thai Basil Chicken Recipe (Pad Krapow Gai)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
- 2-4 eggs (optional, for frying as a topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish is quick to make! You only need about 10-15 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. So in around 25-30 minutes, you can have this tasty Thai Basil Chicken ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot, which helps with that delicious stir-fried flavor!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add in the minced garlic and sliced chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant—watch out, it’s gonna smell amazing!
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Now, toss in the diced onion and green beans. Stir-fry these together for about 2-3 minutes until the green beans start to soften a bit, but still have some crunch.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the chicken turns white and no longer pink—this usually takes about 5 minutes. You might want to stir it around a bit to make sure everything cooks evenly.
5. Add the Sauces:
Now it’s time for flavor! Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and water or chicken broth. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together and the liquid to reduce slightly.
6. Add the Basil:
Finally, add the fresh Thai basil leaves to the pan. Give it a good stir until the basil just wilts. This should only take a few seconds. Remove the skillet from the heat.
7. Fry Your Eggs (Optional):
If you’re adding eggs, heat a little oil in a separate small pan and fry the eggs sunny side up or however you like them!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot Thai basil chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, and top with a fried egg if you wish! Don’t forget to garnish with a few extra basil leaves for that fresh touch.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Thai Basil Chicken dinner! It’s sure to become a family favorite! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If using chicken breast or thighs, just chop them into small pieces to cook evenly.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of bird’s eye chilies or omit them entirely. For a milder flavor, you can substitute them with sweet bell peppers instead.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture (without the basil) ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just heat and add basil just before serving for the best flavor!
