Irresistible Thai Basil Chicken: Quick & Flavorful Recipe

There’s something utterly magical about the tantalizing aroma of Thai basil chicken wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: savory chicken stir-fried with vibrant veggies, drizzled in a fragrant sauce that dances with sweet and spicy notes. Every bite is like a mini-vacation to Thailand, where the flavors are as bold as a street market and as comforting as a warm hug.

Now, let’s get real for a second. I remember the first time I made Thai basil chicken for my friends. It was one of those “impress them with your cooking skills” evenings, and let me tell you, I was sweating bullets! But when they took that first bite, their eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning. That moment solidified my love for this dish and its ability to bring people together.

I once had a friend declare this dish “the reason I could never be a vegetarian.” The sheer joy on their face still makes me chuckle!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.

• Fresh Thai Basil: Look for vibrant green leaves; they deliver that unique peppery flavor essential to this dish.

• Bell Peppers: Any color will do; choose firm peppers for crunch and sweetness in each bite.

• Garlic: Use fresh cloves for maximum flavor; nothing beats that aromatic goodness.

• Chili Peppers: Adjust the heat level by choosing milder or spicier peppers according to your preference.

• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep things balanced without overwhelming saltiness.

• Oyster Sauce: A key ingredient that adds depth; go for high-quality brands for the best results.

• Sugar: A touch of sugar enhances the flavors beautifully; brown sugar is my secret weapon here!

• Cooking Oil: Use vegetable or peanut oil; both work well for stir-frying at high temperatures.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preparation Step: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and less chaotic.

Cook the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until golden brown, around 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics: Toss in minced garlic and chopped chili peppers until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do! The aroma will hit you like a warm embrace.

Stir-Fry Veggies: Add sliced bell peppers to the pan and stir-fry until they soften but still retain some crunch, roughly 3-4 minutes.

Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour this heavenly mix over your chicken and veggies.

Finish with Basil: Just before serving, throw in those fragrant Thai basil leaves. Stir until wilted but still vibrant—this takes about 1 minute.

Serve it Up: Plate your glorious creation over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy the applause from family or friends who are about to indulge in this culinary masterpiece!

This Thai basil chicken recipe is not just dinner; it’s an experience bursting with flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds (or thirds). Happy cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for a juicy texture, then toss in your veggies while the sauce simmers. This ensures everything cooks perfectly and infuses flavors beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a delightful twist. You can also add extra veggies, like bell peppers or snap peas, to enhance texture and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep that delicious flavor intact.

Cooking this Thai basil chicken recipe brings back memories of my college days when I tried impressing friends with homemade meals. They loved it and still ask me for the recipe!

FAQ

Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?

Yes, but expect a different flavor profile; Thai basil has a unique spice.

Is this dish spicy?

It can be spicy depending on how much chili you add; adjust to your preference.

What can I serve with Thai basil chicken?

Serve it with jasmine rice or noodles to complement the flavors wonderfully.

Print

Thai Basil Chicken

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Thai Basil Chicken is a delightful and aromatic stir-fry that transports your taste buds straight to Thailand. Featuring tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and fragrant Thai basil, this dish boasts a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 breasts)
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1 cup bell peppers (sliced; any color)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 chili peppers (sliced; adjust to taste)
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

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Instructions

1. Start by gathering all ingredients for a smooth cooking experience.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and sliced chili peppers; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add sliced bell peppers and stir-fry until tender-crisp, approximately 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar. Pour over chicken and veggies.
6. Just before serving, fold in fresh Thai basil leaves until wilted but vibrant—around 1 minute.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different twist. Add extra vegetables like snap peas for added nutrition.