Thai Basil Chicken Recipe

Imagine whipping up a restaurant-quality Thai Basil Chicken recipe in less than 40 minutes! With delightful sweet, spicy, and aromatic flavors, you might find it surprisingly easy to recreate this authentic Thai stir-fry dish in your own kitchen. The succulent chicken thighs, vibrant red bell peppers, and a savory sauce made from soy and brown sugar make this meal so irresistible that everyone will be asking for seconds!

Jump to:

• Thai Basil Chicken Recipe
• Table of Contents
• The Secret Ingredient That Makes it a Winner
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• How to Make Thai Basil Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the ingredients.
• Step 2: Make the sauce.
• Step 3: Cook the veggies.
• Step 4: Add the chicken.
• Step 5: Add the bell peppers and sauce.
• Step 6: Finish and serve.
• What is Thai basil sauce made of?
• Recipe Tips
• What to Serve with Thai Basil Chicken?
• More Asian Stir-Fry Recipes
• Thai Basil Chicken Recipe
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Table of Contents

• The Secret Ingredient That Makes it a Winner
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• How to Make Thai Basil Chicken
• What is Thai basil sauce made of?
• Recipe Tips
• What to Serve with Thai Basil Chicken?
• More Asian Stir-Fry Recipes
• Thai Basil Chicken Recipe

It’s not usual for me to boast, but this recipe deserves an enthusiastic shout-out. Okay, maybe I got a tad carried away there!

But genuinely, this Thai Basil Chicken stands out as one of the best and most authentic-tasting stir-fry dishes I’ve ever prepared. Perhaps even better than this General Tso’s Chicken or this Beef Stir-Fry. If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, you simply can’t miss this one.

It’s not only super quick to make—like we’re talking easy under-40-minutes here—but the fresh basil flavors meld beautifully with the slightly sweet and spicy sauce.

The Secret Ingredient That Makes it a Winner

Fish sauce is the hidden gem that elevates this umami-packed dish. If you’re unsure about it, start by adding just a teaspoon at a time until it tastes just right!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For exact measurements and detailed steps, please refer to the recipe card below.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe. Cut them into bite-sized pieces or substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer.

• Veggies: Onions or shallots are essential for the base. Try adding jalapeño pepper or Thai chili peppers, along with bell peppers. Asian markets may have Thai chilies if you need.

• Garlic: Adding minced garlic cloves is crucial for the dish’s flavor punch. While garlic powder can be a substitute, fresh is best.

• Soy Sauce: Regular or low-sodium soy sauce works. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos based on your dietary preferences.

• Sugar: You can use either brown sugar or white sugar depending on your taste. For a healthier option, consider coconut sugar.

• Fish Sauce: This is the star ingredient! It’s essential for crafting the elusive umami flavor that makes this dish so tempting.

• Cornstarch: This is needed to thicken the sauce, so don’t skip it or your dish may end up watery.

• Basil: Whatever basil you can find will work, but fresh Thai basil provides the most authentic taste. If you must, pick up sweet basil or regular basil from your grocery store.

How to Make Thai Basil Chicken

For complete instructions, detailed ingredient amounts, and a printable recipe, see the recipe card below.

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients.

Thinly slice the bell peppers, mince the garlic, dice the jalapeño pepper, and slice the onions. You can also chiffonade the basil.

Step 2: Make the sauce.

Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, warm water, cornstarch, and fish sauce in a medium bowl. Whisk everything together thoroughly and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the veggies.

In a wok or skillet heated over medium-high, add oil. Then toss in the sliced onion, garlic, and diced peppers. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic begins to emit a fragrant aroma.

Step 4: Add the chicken.

Push the veggies aside in the skillet and drizzle in more oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Don’t stir immediately; allow the chicken to sear for a couple of minutes before flipping it over. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through.

Step 5: Add the bell peppers and sauce.

Combine the bell peppers with the chicken and onions, continuing to cook for 1-2 more minutes over medium-high heat.

Step 6: Finish and serve.

Lower the heat to medium-low, gently mix in the savory sauce, and toss to coat the chicken. Sprinkle in the basil leaves, stir again, and cook for 30 more seconds before removing from heat. Serve it up in a bowl atop freshly cooked rice, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh herbs if desired!

What is Thai basil sauce made of?

The sauce in this Thai basil creation has a base of soy sauce, combined with brown sugar and fish sauce. It’s perfectly complemented by a sprinkle of fresh basil on top.

Recipe Tips

• Small is best. Ensure chicken chunks are kept small for even cooking.
• Smells fishy. Don’t skip the fish sauce! It’s crucial for the sauce’s flavor.
• You choose. Serve it over rice, or keep it low-carb with cauliflower rice.
• Plus it up. Feel free to add other veggies like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. Spice it up with extra Thai chilies if you like!

What to Serve with Thai Basil Chicken?

While this dish is delightful on its own, it pairs brilliantly with some tasty sides.

• Start with a base; try Jasmine Rice, Instant Pot Basmati Rice, or Instant Pot White Rice. Change it up with Coconut Rice or Instant Pot Wild Rice.
• For a low-carb alternative, try Cauliflower Rice.
• A flavorful Thai Quinoa Salad also goes well with this dish!

More Asian Stir-Fry Recipes

Regardless of your protein preference, there is a range of mouth-watering stir-fries that will satisfy your cravings.

• Beef Stir-Fry
• Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
• Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
• Cashew Chicken
• Teriyaki Shrimp Stir-Fry
• Or keep the Thai theme going with a delicious Peanut Sauce Recipe to drizzle on everything!

Thai Basil Chicken Recipe

The dish is not only flavorful but also a breeze to whip up, making it a family favorite in no time! So, don’t wait; give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Thailand at home!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Salisbury Steak Meatballs
• Crispy Zucchini Fritters
• Chipotle Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
• Tomato Bruschetta

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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