Easy Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) Recipe

Discover the authentic flavors of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) with this quick, easy, and flavorful recipe perfect for any meal. This dish bursts with a delightful combination of spicy heat, savory depth, and fresh basil aroma that will instantly transport you to the streets of Thailand. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers satisfying comfort and excitement on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Bold Flavors: The vibrant mix of garlic, chilies, and fresh basil creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
• Protein Packed: Ground chicken offers a lean, tender texture that soaks up all the savory sauces beautifully.
• Customizable Heat Level: Easily adjust the spice by adding or reducing fresh chilies to suit your taste buds.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with this simple stir-fry cooked entirely in one pan or wok.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these essential ingredients to capture the authentic taste of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai). Each component plays a big role—from the crisp bite of fresh basil to the salty depth of soy sauce—making the dish vibrant and irresistible.

• Ground Chicken: The base protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the bold flavors perfectly.
• Fresh Thai Basil: Adds a unique peppery, fragrant aroma essential to the dish.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced fresh garlic provides a pungent, earthy undertone.
• Fresh Red or Green Chilies: Offers the signature spicy kick that defines the dish’s heat.
• Soy Sauce: Brings salty umami that deepens the flavor profile.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and richness that balances the spice.
• Fish Sauce: Delivers a savory tang that’s key to authentic Thai cooking.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness to round out the dish’s savory ingredients.
• Vegetable or Canola Oil: For stir-frying, providing a neutral taste and high smoke point.
• Onion or Shallots: Adds sweetness and texture when lightly cooked.
• Cooked Jasmine Rice: Perfect for serving, soaking up all those delicious sauces.

Variations for Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Feel free to experiment and personalize this classic recipe. It’s incredibly versatile and can adapt to different dietary needs and flavor preferences without losing its signature charm.

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, pork, or beef instead of chicken for a different taste and texture.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with firm tofu or mushrooms, and use soy sauce in place of fish sauce.
• Heat Level: Swap fresh chili for milder peppers or add extra chili flakes to crank up the spicy factor.
• Herb Twist: If you can’t find Thai basil, try sweet basil or holy basil for a slightly different flavor.
• Added Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or green beans for extra crunch and color.

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How to Make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping garlic, sliced chilies, and your onions or shallots. Pick fresh Thai basil leaves and set everything close by since this dish cooks quickly.

Step 2: Heat the Pan and Sauté Aromatics

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, sliced chilies, and onions, stirring frequently until fragrant and slightly translucent—this infuses the oil with rich flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Chicken

Add ground chicken to the pan, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Sauces

Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and a little brown sugar. Stir well to blend the flavors and coat the chicken evenly. Let this simmer briefly to meld the ingredients.

Step 5: Toss in the Fresh Basil

Turn off the heat and gently fold in fresh Thai basil leaves. Their aroma will release instantly, enhancing the dish wonderfully without overcooking the herbs.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Plate the Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) immediately over steamed jasmine rice for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

• Fresh is Best: Use fresh Thai basil and chilies for the most authentic and vibrant flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Basil: Add basil at the end off the heat so it retains its fragrance and color.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust fish sauce and sugar gradually to get your perfect sweet-salty-spicy harmony.
• High Heat Cooking: Keep your skillet hot to get a slight caramelization on the chicken for more depth.
• Rice Prep: Warm your jasmine rice before serving for that fluffy, comforting texture.

How to Serve Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Garnishes

Top your dish with extra fresh Thai basil leaves or thinly sliced fresh chilies for a pop of color and extra heat. A fried egg on top is a classic addition that adds richness and balances the spice.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside simple steamed vegetables or a cooling cucumber salad to contrast the spicy chicken. Sticky rice also pairs excellently for a traditional Thai touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken wrapped in lettuce cups for a fresh and crunchy handheld option. You can also use it to fill spring rolls or stuff peppers for a flavorful appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep rice separate to maintain texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes well when stored properly. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for optimal freshness and flavor retention.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying if needed, and sprinkle fresh basil after reheating to revive aroma.

FAQs

What is the best type of basil to use?

Thai basil is ideal for this recipe because of its distinctive licorice-like flavor. If you can’t find it, sweet basil is a good substitute but won’t have the same aromatic depth.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground chicken for tofu or mushrooms and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian alternative.

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on how many chilies you use. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or fewer fresh chilies to suit your spice tolerance.

What should I serve with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

Steamed jasmine rice is the classic pairing. You can also serve it with sticky rice, fresh vegetables, or a cooling cucumber salad to balance the flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for prepping lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) recipe is a delightful way to bring authentic Thai flavors to your kitchen without fuss or long prep times. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to Thai cuisine, this dish is sure to become a favorite that’s fast, fresh, and full of flavor. Give it a try and enjoy a vibrant taste adventure at home!

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