Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Pad Krapow Gai served in a bowl with rice

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Pad Krapow Gai

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that packs a punch of flavor. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight and delivers a satisfying meal that is also healthy. With tender chicken, fresh basil, and spicy chilies, this stir-fry is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for those who want good food without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, coarsely chopped
  • 1/4 cup sliced shallots
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons minced Thai chilies, Serrano, or other hot pepper
  • 1 cup very thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cups hot cooked rice

Directions:

  1. Gather all the ingredients.
  2. Whisk together the chicken broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, white sugar, and brown sugar in a bowl until well blended.
  3. Heat a large skillet over high heat and drizzle in the vegetable oil.
  4. Add the chopped chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until it turns white and loses its raw color.
  5. Stir in the shallots, garlic, and minced chilies. Continue cooking on high heat until juices caramelize at the bottom of the pan, which takes another 2 to 3 minutes.
  6. Add about a tablespoon of the sauce mixture to the skillet, cooking and stirring until it starts to caramelize, about 1 minute.
  7. Pour in the rest of the sauce and cook, stirring, to deglaze the pan. Keep cooking until the sauce coats the meat, for about 1 or 2 more minutes. Remove from heat.
  8. Stir in the basil and cook for about 20 seconds until the basil is wilted. Serve the stir-fry hot over rice.

How to Serve Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

To serve Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry, plate it over a generous helping of hot cooked rice. You can garnish it with additional fresh basil and sliced chilies if you like more heat. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Store Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove until heated through.

Tips to Make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

  • Make sure to use fresh basil for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice preference.
  • You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving.

Variation

You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu, depending on your preference. Each variation gives a different twist to the classic stir-fry while keeping the delicious flavors intact.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish without the fish sauce?
Yes, you can omit the fish sauce or replace it with soy sauce for a vegetarian option. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still be tasty.

2. How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness comes from the Thai chilies or Serrano peppers. You can reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds to make it milder.

3. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil is recommended for its flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount called for in fresh.