Description
Experience the authentic taste of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai), a quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring ground chicken, fresh Thai basil, garlic, and chilies. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish combines spicy heat, savory umami, and aromatic herbs for a vibrant meal perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 300g ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2–3 fresh red or green chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- ½ medium onion or 2 shallots, sliced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Finely chop garlic, slice the chilies, and the onion or shallots. Pick fresh Thai basil leaves and have all ingredients ready close by as the cooking process is quick.
- Heat the Pan and Sauté Aromatics: Warm the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, sliced chilies, and onions, stirring frequently until fragrant and the onions become slightly translucent to infuse the oil with flavor.
- Cook the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until browned and fully cooked, stirring continuously for even cooking.
- Add the Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sprinkle the brown sugar. Stir well to combine and coat the chicken evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer briefly to meld the flavors.
- Toss in the Fresh Basil: Turn off the heat and gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves. The residual heat will release their aroma without overcooking the herbs.
- Serve Hot: Immediately plate the spicy Thai basil chicken over steamed jasmine rice for the best flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- Use fresh Thai basil and chilies for the most authentic and vibrant flavor.
- Add basil off the heat to preserve its fragrance and bright green color.
- Adjust fish sauce and sugar gradually to balance sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.
- Cook on high heat to slightly caramelize the chicken and add depth.
- Warm jasmine rice before serving to achieve a fluffy, comforting texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (with rice)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg