The enticing aroma of Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry wafts through the air, promising a burst of savory and slightly spicy flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Imagine tender chicken pieces sizzling in a hot pan, surrounded by vibrant vegetables and fragrant basil leaves. savory chicken and rice dish This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Thailand with every bite.
I still remember the first time I made this dish, fumbling around my kitchen like an amateur chef on a cooking show. The family gathered around, eyes wide with anticipation as the intoxicating scent filled the room. Little did they know, they were about to embark on a flavor adventure that would become a staple in our household for years to come. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry is easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking skills
- The flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory that everyone loves
- It looks gorgeous on the plate with its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients
- Ideal for busy weeknights or impressing dinner guests alike, this recipe is super versatile!
I once served this dish at a potluck, and let’s just say it left everyone clamoring for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicier than breasts and add fantastic flavor; feel free to slice them thinly.
- Fresh Thai Basil: Look for bright green leaves; nothing beats the aromatic kick they provide. fresh apple cranberry salad.
- Bell Peppers: Use assorted colors for visual appeal; they also add sweetness that balances the dish.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs an intense punch; don’t skimp on these little flavor bombs.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
- Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and richness; it’s essential for that authentic Thai taste.
- Chili Paste: Adjust according to your spice tolerance; this is where the heat comes from!
- Vegetable Oil: Use high smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil; it helps achieve that delicious stir-fry sear.
- Green Onions: These add freshness and crunch; chop them finely for garnish at the end.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing all your veggies thoroughly. Chop bell peppers into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic cloves finely. Set everything aside in easy reach – you’re going to need them quickly!
Cook the Chicken First: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken thighs and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. The chicken should have a nice crust before removing it from the skillet.
Add Aromatics and Veggies: Into the same skillet (don’t wash it yet!), toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then add bell peppers and continue cooking until they soften slightly but still maintain their crunch.
Incorporate Sauces and Spice It Up: Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste. Stir everything together until well coated, ensuring each piece of chicken gets some saucy goodness.
Finish with Fresh Basil: Just before serving, fold in fresh Thai basil leaves until wilted but vibrant green. The smell will be incredible—trust me!
Serve Hot Over Rice or Noodles: Plate your Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry over fluffy jasmine rice or noodles. creamy chicken pasta option Garnish with chopped green onions and watch everyone swoon as they dig in!
With these steps under your belt, you’re ready to whip up a fabulous meal that’ll impress anyone lucky enough to join you at dinner! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry! spicy gochujang chicken tenders.
You Must Know
- Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights
- The fresh basil adds a fragrant twist, making your kitchen smell amazing while cooking
- Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavors, then stir-fry the vegetables while the chicken cooks. This sequence ensures everything is cooked perfectly and maintains freshness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out proteins like tofu for a vegetarian version or add more vegetables like bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat in a skillet to keep the chicken tender.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high heat while cooking to achieve that restaurant-style finish
- Always prep your ingredients beforehand; it makes cooking much smoother
- Lastly, avoid overcooking the basil to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma
Cooking Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry has become my go-to solution for those last-minute dinner parties when I need to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry recipe.
FAQ
Can I use other types of basil?
While Thai basil is best, sweet basil works too, though flavors will differ slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and tastes great reheated throughout the week.
What’s a good side dish for Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry?
Serve it with jasmine rice or rice noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and aromatic Thai basil. This quick stir fry bursts with sweet, spicy, and savory notes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 1 cup bell peppers (assorted colors), diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (canola or peanut)
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing the vegetables and chopping bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken thighs and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add diced bell peppers and cook until slightly softened while still retaining crunch.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Fold in fresh Thai basil leaves just before serving until wilted. Serve hot over jasmine rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently in a skillet.