Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry, also known as Pad Krapow Gai, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that features tender chicken stir-fried with fragrant Thai basil, garlic, and chili. This simple yet delicious meal can be served over rice and is a popular street food in Thailand. Here’s how to prepare your own Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry at home!


Ingredients: What You’ll Need

For the Stir-Fry

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2-4 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste, or use red pepper flakes for milder heat)
1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (sweet basil can be a substitute, but the flavor will differ)
1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
1/2 onion, sliced (optional)


For the Sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon sugar (brown sugar preferred)
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water (optional, for thickening)


For Serving

Steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice
Fried eggs (optional but highly recommended)


Instructions: Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and cornstarch mixture (if using). Stir until well combined and set aside.


Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Add the Garlic and Chilies: Add the minced garlic and chopped bird's eye chilies to the pan and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

Cook the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.


Step 3: Add Vegetables

Optional Veggies: If using bell pepper and onion, add them to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.


Step 4: Combine with Sauce

Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up.

Add the Basil: Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly in the residual heat.


Step 5: Serve

Plate the Dish: Serve the Thai Basil Chicken stir-fry hot over steamed jasmine rice. Optionally, top with a fried egg for an authentic touch.

Garnish: You can garnish with additional fresh basil or sliced chilies if desired.


Tips for the Perfect Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

Chicken Cuts: Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts, but you can use either based on your preference.

Adjusting Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the number of chilies based on your heat tolerance. If you like it milder, you can remove the seeds from the chilies, or use fewer.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, carrots, or broccoli for more color and nutrition.

Fish Sauce Substitution: If you're not a fan of fish sauce, you can substitute with additional soy sauce, keeping in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.


Conclusion

Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and satisfying dish that brings vibrant flavors to your dinner table. With its aromatic herbs and spicy notes, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy this delicious Thai classic with rice and a fried egg for a complete and hearty meal!