Thai Basil Chicken: 7 Irresistible Ways to Savor Flavor

Name: Thai Basil Chicken: 7 Irresistible Ways to Savor Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups Thai basil leaves; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 teaspoon sugar

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of *Thai basil chicken*! This dish is a whirlwind of flavor that’s ready in no time – perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something vibrant and delicious. I remember the first time I had this at a little Thai restaurant tucked away in my neighborhood. The moment I took that first bite, I was hooked! The fragrant basil, the zing of garlic, and tender pieces of chicken all danced together in my mouth. It was love at first taste!

What I adore about this recipe is how quick it is to whip up—seriously, you can have a steaming plate of this goodness ready in just 25 minutes. It’s perfect for when you need to impress guests or just want to treat yourself after a long day. Plus, the colors of the red bell pepper and fresh basil are so inviting. You’ll be craving it again and again, I promise!

thai basil chicken - detail 1

Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 cups Thai basil leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
1 teaspoon sugar

How to Prepare Thai Basil Chicken

Alright, let’s dive into the cooking magic! This part is where the delicious transformation happens, and I’m here to guide you through every step. Trust me, it’s easier than you think – just follow along, and you’ll have a scrumptious dish ready to serve in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab your trusty skillet and heat up the vegetable oil over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, but not smoking. A minute or two should do the trick!
Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Oh wow, that aroma will hit you like a warm hug! Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant – just be careful not to burn it! Nobody likes bitter garlic.
Now, it’s time to add the sliced chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. You want those lovely golden bits – they add so much flavor!
Next, throw in the sliced onion and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they’re just tender but still have a nice crunch. The colors are so vibrant, aren’t they? You’ll be feeling like a culinary rockstar!
Now, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sprinkle in the sugar. Mix everything together well, letting those sauces coat the chicken and veggies evenly. It’s like a flavor explosion!
Finally, add the beautiful Thai basil leaves. Stir them in gently for about a minute until they’re wilted and aromatic. The smell will be irresistible, I promise!
And there you have it! Serve your Thai basil chicken hot with a side of steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights!
Vibrant flavors that pop with every bite, thanks to fresh Thai basil and garlic.
Healthy ingredients that make you feel good about what you’re eating.
One-pan dish for easy cleanup—less time scrubbing, more time savoring!
Customizable: adjust the spice level to suit your taste with more or less chili.
Impressive enough to wow guests, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for various dietary needs.

Tips for Success with Thai Basil Chicken

Let’s make sure your *Thai basil chicken* turns out absolutely delicious! Here are my tried-and-true tips for taking your dish to the next level:

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh Thai basil if you can find it! The vibrant flavor of fresh leaves is what makes this dish truly sing. If you have to use dried, just remember it won’t pack the same punch.
Watch the Heat: When sautéing garlic, keep an eye on the heat! If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat to avoid that bitter taste. You want it fragrant but not burnt—trust me, it’s a game changer!
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re cooking for a crowd, it’s better to do it in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, and we want those gorgeous golden bits for flavor!
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients to match your taste! If you like it sweeter, add a touch more sugar. Want it spicier? A little chili paste or fresh slices can elevate the heat.
Serve It Right: This dish shines when served hot and fresh. Pair it with fluffy jasmine rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. You can also toss in some stir-fried veggies for a colorful, well-rounded meal.
Meal Prep Friendly: If you’re a meal prepper, cook a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners. Just reheat and enjoy the flavors all over again!

With these tips, I’m confident you’ll have a *Thai basil chicken* dish that dazzles your taste buds and impresses anyone lucky enough to share it with you!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delightful *Thai basil chicken*! It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body, right? Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind, these are just estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: 320
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g

This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also packs a solid protein punch from the chicken, making it a great option for a nutritious meal. Whether you’re on a health kick or just looking to enjoy a tasty dinner, this *Thai basil chicken* has got you covered!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious *Thai basil chicken* ready to go, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal even more! Trust me, the right sides can take this dish from fantastic to absolutely unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the flavors beautifully:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This is a must! The fluffy rice soaks up all that amazing sauce and balances the flavors perfectly. You can even add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped scallions for a little extra flair.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of stir-fried veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots adds crunch and freshness. Toss them in a bit of soy sauce and garlic for a delightful side!
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a splash of lime juice, a hint of sugar, and some chili flakes can provide a cool contrast to the warm chicken. It’s like a mini vacation on your plate!
Spring Rolls: Why not take it up a notch with some fresh spring rolls? They’re light, filled with veggies, and can be dipped in a tangy peanut or hoisin sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Thai-style Soup: A simple broth-based soup, like Tom Yum, can be a wonderful start to your meal. The zesty flavors will excite your palate and set the stage for the main event!
Thai Iced Tea: And don’t forget a drink! A chilled Thai iced tea, with its sweet and creamy notes, pairs so well with the savory chicken. It’s a delightful way to cool down while enjoying your meal.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a well-rounded feast that not only satisfies but also impresses. Get ready for a culinary experience that friends and family will rave about long after the last bite!

FAQ About Thai Basil Chicken

Let’s tackle some of the most common questions I get about *Thai basil chicken*! I’m here to help you navigate through any cooking dilemmas or ingredient swaps you might be pondering. Let’s get into it!

Can I use other types of chicken?
Absolutely! While I love using chicken breast for its lean quality, you can also use thighs for a juicier bite. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What if I can’t find Thai basil?
No worries! If you can’t find fresh Thai basil, you can substitute it with sweet basil or even Italian basil in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! You can easily swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Make sure to press and drain your tofu well so it absorbs all those amazing flavors. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!

What if I want extra spice?
If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add some sliced fresh chilies or a dash of chili flakes when you’re cooking. You can also serve it with a side of chili sauce for those who want to kick it up a notch!

Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! This *Thai basil chicken* is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove for the best results!

Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes! Just let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it.

How can I make it gluten-free?
This dish is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. Just double-check the labels on your sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like baby corn, snap peas, or even bok choy. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so everything stays tender and vibrant!

I hope this FAQ helps you whip up the best *Thai basil chicken* ever! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken or Quick Chicken Stir Fry.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.