Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: An Amazing 30-Min Meal

Name: Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: An Amazing 30-Min Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: ⅓ 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; ¼ cup sliced shallots; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons minced Thai chilies (or to taste); 1 cup very thinly sliced fresh basil leaves; 2 cups hot cooked rice, for serving

by basmer

17 de October de 2025

Facebook

Jump to Recipe

Spicy Thai basil chicken has become my go-to weeknight wonder for so many reasons. I first tasted authentic Pad Krapow Gai on a bustling street in Bangkok years ago, and the intense aroma of basil, garlic, and chili immediately hooked me. The way the tender chicken and savory sauce clung to the fluffy rice was pure magic! Since then, I’ve been obsessed with recreating that vibrant, fiery flavor at home. This recipe for spicy chicken with Thai basil is my shortcut to that authentic taste, delivering incredible depth in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect example of a simple yet profoundly flavorful Thai spicy chicken stir fry. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with this incredible dish for so many reasons. It’s a true game-changer for busy weeknights!

Incredibly quick to make – ready in under 30 minutes!
Bursting with authentic Thai flavors that are both spicy and savory.
Uses simple, accessible ingredients for an easy Thai basil chicken experience.
The combination of tender chicken, fragrant basil, and a kick of chili is irresistible.
Perfect for a healthy yet satisfying meal, especially when served with rice.
This Thai spicy chicken stir fry is a fantastic way to spice up your dinner routine.
You can easily customize the spice level to your preference.
It’s a versatile dish, great for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

Ingredients for Authentic Thai Basil Chicken

To create this flavorful Pad Krapow Gai recipe, you’ll need these key components. Don’t worry if you can’t find holy basil; regular fresh basil works wonderfully too, though it offers a slightly different aroma for your chicken stir fry with Thai basil and chili.

⅓ cup chicken broth – This forms the base of our savory sauce.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Adds a rich, umami depth.
1 tablespoon soy sauce – For that essential salty, savory flavor.
2 teaspoons fish sauce – A classic Thai ingredient for a unique savory kick.
1 teaspoon white sugar – Balances the savory and spicy notes.
1 teaspoon brown sugar – Adds a touch more sweetness and depth.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For stir-frying at high heat.
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, coarsely chopped – Thighs stay more tender than breast meat during the quick stir-fry.
¼ cup sliced shallots – They offer a milder, sweeter onion flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that pungent aroma and taste.
2 tablespoons minced Thai chilies (or to taste) – This is where the heat comes from! Adjust to your spice preference for your spicy basil chicken Thai style.
1 cup very thinly sliced fresh basil leaves – Use plenty! This is the star ingredient, so don’t skimp.

How to Make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Using This Pad Krapow Gai Recipe

This recipe for Pad Krapow Gai is incredibly straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this authentic Thai dish. The key is high heat and having everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Trust me, the aroma alone will have you counting down the minutes until dinner!

Step 1: First, let’s get our sauce ready. In a small bowl, whisk together the ⅓ cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 teaspoons fish sauce, 1 teaspoon white sugar, and 1 teaspoon brown sugar until everything is completely dissolved and well combined. Set this aside.
Step 2: Now, heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. You want this pan to be nice and hot to get that perfect sear on the chicken.
Step 3: Add the 1 pound coarsely chopped chicken thighs to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, just until the chicken pieces lose their raw pink color.
Step 4: Toss in the ¼ cup sliced shallots, 4 cloves minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons minced Thai chilies. Continue to stir-fry over high heat for another 2-3 minutes. You’re looking for the shallots to soften and the garlic to become fragrant.
Step 5: Pour about 1 tablespoon of your prepared sauce mixture into the skillet. Stir and cook for about 1 minute, letting it bubble and start to caramelize on the bottom of the pan. This step adds amazing depth!
Step 6: Add the remaining sauce to the skillet. Use your spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s where the flavor is! Continue cooking until the sauce slightly reduces and coats the chicken beautifully, creating a glossy finish. This usually takes another 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Remove the pan from the heat. Immediately stir in the 1 cup of thinly sliced fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil perfectly in about 20 seconds, releasing its incredible aroma.
Step 8: Serve your glorious spicy Thai basil chicken immediately over 2 cups hot cooked rice.

Step-by-Step Stir-Fry Instructions

The magic of this dish truly happens in the stir-fry. Using high heat is crucial for achieving that slightly caramelized texture on the chicken and shallots. As you cook, you’ll notice the garlic and chilies releasing their pungent aroma, mingled with the sweet scent of the shallots. When you add the sauce, listen for that sizzle! It signifies the caramelization happening, which is key to that authentic Thai spicy chicken stir fry flavor. Don’t overcook the chicken; it should remain tender. The final addition of basil off the heat ensures its fresh, vibrant flavor shines through.

Achieving the Perfect Spicy Basil Chicken Thai Style

To get that perfect spicy basil chicken Thai style, remember that high heat is your best friend. This isn’t a dish you want to simmer for a long time. The quick cooking process helps to lock in the moisture of the chicken and allows the flavors to meld without becoming muddled. Ensure your wok or skillet is smoking hot before adding the oil and ingredients. This rapid cooking method creates a delightful texture contrast – tender chicken with slightly crisp edges, all coated in a glossy, savory sauce infused with fresh basil and chili. It’s this balance of speed and intense flavor that defines authentic Thai cooking. For more information on stir-frying techniques, check out this guide to stir-frying.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely incredible. Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of heat, savory, and aromatic flavors that makes this spicy chicken with Thai basil so addictive.

Don’t be shy with the basil! Using a full cup of fresh leaves is crucial for that signature aroma and flavor.
High heat is non-negotiable for achieving that slightly charred, caramelized effect on the chicken and aromatics.
Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. This is a fast-paced stir-fry, and you won’t have time to chop once things are in the pan.
Taste and adjust the sauce before adding it to the pan. You might want a little more fish sauce for saltiness or sugar for sweetness.

What’s the secret to perfect Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

The secret lies in high-heat stir-frying and using plenty of fresh Thai basil. This technique creates a wonderful caramelization on the chicken and aromatics, resulting in a deeply flavorful and authentic Pad Krapow Gai recipe.

Can I make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the sauce and chop the ingredients ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the dish just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pad Krapow Gai?

Avoid overcrowding the pan, which steams the ingredients instead of stir-frying them. Also, don’t add the basil too early; it should be stirred in right at the end to maintain its fresh flavor and vibrant color.

Best Ways to Serve Thai Basil Chicken with Chilies

This vibrant Thai spicy chicken stir fry is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic experience, serve it piping hot over fluffy jasmine rice. The rice is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious, spicy sauce. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, this spicy chicken with Thai basil is fantastic served over cauliflower rice or even a bed of sautéed greens like bok choy. You could also try pairing it with a simple cucumber salad to add a refreshing crunch and cool contrast to the heat.

Nutrition Facts for Spicy Thai Ground Chicken Recipe

This flavorful dish offers a satisfying meal with a good balance of macronutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving for this spicy chicken with Thai basil:

Calories: 450
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 930mg
Cholesterol: 95mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Easy Thai Basil Chicken

Once your delicious homemade spicy Thai basil chicken has cooled completely, it’s time to think about storage. For the best quality, store any leftovers in airtight containers. This helps to maintain the texture and prevent the dish from drying out. You can keep your refrigerated spicy Thai basil chicken in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions well or use freezer-safe containers, and it should last for up to 3 months.

Reheating is simple! Gently warm your leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through, until heated through. This ensures you can enjoy your flavorful Thai basil chicken with chilies just as much as when it was freshly made! For more tips on food storage, see this guide to food storage temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quick Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fresh Thai basil offers a unique anise-like flavor that’s distinct, regular sweet basil will still give you a delicious result for your quick spicy Thai basil chicken. The aroma will be slightly different, but the savory, spicy sauce and tender chicken will still be fantastic. Just be sure to use a generous amount, as the flavor is more delicate.

What can I substitute for Thai chilies if I can’t find them?

If you can’t find Thai chilies, don’t worry! You can substitute with Serrano peppers or even jalapeños, depending on your desired heat level. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. This ensures your homemade spicy Thai basil chicken is perfectly spiced for your palate.

Is Pad Krapow Gai supposed to be very oily?

Authentic Pad Krapow Gai often has a bit of oil, as high heat stir-frying requires it to achieve that slightly caramelized texture. However, you can control the amount by using just enough to stir-fry the aromatics and chicken, and by draining any excess fat before adding the sauce. This recipe uses a moderate amount for great flavor without being overly greasy for your Thai spicy chicken stir fry.

How spicy is this spicy basil chicken Thai style?

The spice level in this spicy basil chicken Thai style recipe is adjustable. The 2 tablespoons of minced Thai chilies provide a significant kick, typical of authentic Pad Krapow Gai. If you prefer milder heat, start with 1 tablespoon or even less, and add more to taste. For those who love it extra fiery, feel free to add more chilies or even a pinch of red pepper flakes!

Variations of Thai Holy Basil Chicken You Can Try

While the classic Pad Krapow Gai is amazing, I love experimenting with this spicy chicken with Thai basil recipe! Here are a few ways I like to switch things up:

For a Vegetarian Twist: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms. Press the tofu well to remove excess water before cubing and stir-frying. This makes for a fantastic meatless version of your favorite Thai spicy chicken stir fry.
Low-Carb Delight: As mentioned before, serving this over cauliflower rice is a game-changer. You can also skip the rice altogether and enjoy it as a flavorful lettuce wrap filling, perfect for a lighter meal.
Different Proteins: Feel free to try this with ground pork or even thinly sliced beef for a different take on this spicy basil chicken Thai style dish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition and texture by adding thinly sliced bell peppers, green beans, or snap peas in the last few minutes of stir-frying.

For more delicious chicken thigh recipes, check out these honey lime chicken thighs.

If you’re looking for other quick and easy dinner ideas, consider these easy family dinners.

And for those who enjoy a bit of heat, you might also like this spicy honey lime chicken.