There’s nothing like the fresh and vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, and this Thai Basil Chicken recipe brings authenticity directly to your kitchen. Renowned for its earthy, aromatic basil and perfectly marinated chicken, it’s simple yet indulgent. Ideal for anyone craving a restaurant-quality dish made right at home!
Ingredients
- 500g chicken thighs, sliced
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 2 red chilies, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
Equipments
- Wok or large frying pan
- Spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
How to Make Thai Basil Chicken Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken thighs with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a dash of fish sauce. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes to infuse the flavor deep into the meat. This step ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, setting the foundation for our delicious dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics
While the chicken marinates, chop the onion, slice the chilies, and mince the garlic. These aromatics are essential to creating the classic Thai basil flavor profile, imparting depth and an irresistible aroma as they cook.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies to the hot oil, using a spatula to stir frequently. The goal here is to release the flavors and aromas without burning the garlic, which should take about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the wok, turning up the heat to high. Use your spatula to keep stirring and turning the chicken until it is fully cooked through, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan. This step should take approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped onion and Thai basil leaves to the wok. Reduce the heat to medium and stir everything together well. The basil should wilt, adding a delightful fragrance that signals the dish is nearly done.
How to Serve Thai Basil Chicken Recipe
Serve your delicious Thai Basil Chicken hot, piled over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to balance the heat with freshness.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For an authentic taste, use Thai basil, which is known for its unique flavor that differs from regular basil. Adjust the amount of chili based on your heat preference, and add a squeeze of lime just before serving for an extra zing.
Pumped-Up Protein: Thai Basil Chicken with a Muscle Boost
If you’re looking to increase your protein intake, consider swapping chicken thighs for chicken breast. This option packs more protein into each serving while keeping the dish’s flavors intact.
You can also add additional ingredients like scrambled tofu or even a handful of shrimp for different textures and more protein variety. Just be sure to keep the soy portions proportionate to maintain the rich taste balance.
Low Carb Delight: Thai Basil Chicken with a Healthy Twist
To maintain a low-carb profile, consider replacing the traditional jasmine rice with cauliflower rice. This swap keeps the meal low in carbohydrates without sacrificing the delightful dining experience.
Another variation is to serve it as a lettuce wrap, using large butter lettuce leaves to hold the flavorful chicken mix. This not only makes for a delightful texture but also adds a fresh crunch to every bite.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in suitable containers for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving, either in a microwave or stovetop, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
FAQs
- Can I use dried basil instead? Fresh Thai basil is recommended for authenticity, but in a pinch, regular basil can be used, reducing the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! Tofu or tempeh are excellent substitutes for the chicken, just adjust the sauces slightly to taste.
- What can I serve this with? Jasmine rice is traditional, but cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps are excellent low-carb options.
- Is Thai basil the same as regular basil? No, Thai basil has an anise-like flavor which is distinct from sweet basil, often enhancing the authenticity of Thai dishes.
Final Thoughts: Dive Right Into Thai Basil Chicken!
This Thai Basil Chicken recipe is a winning combination of simplicity and bold flavors. Dive in, share your experience, and watch your guests be captivated by homemade Thai cuisine magic. Don’t forget to comment with your adaptations or suggestions!
Thai Basil Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken thighs
- Thai basil leaves
- garlic
- soy sauce
- oyster sauce
- fish sauce
- sugar
- vegetable oil
- red chilies
- onion
Instructions
Steps
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce. Marinate for 15 minutes.
- Chop onion, slice chilies, and mince garlic.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium heat. Add garlic and chilies, stir until fragrant.
- Add chicken to the wok, cook until fully cooked through.
- Add onion and basil leaves, stir until basil wilts.