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Delicious Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

4.7 from 78 reviews

A flavorful and quick Thai Basil Chicken stir-fry featuring tender chicken cooked with aromatic garlic, fresh Thai basil, and savory soy sauce for a deliciously spicy and fragrant meal perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced

Herbs and Aromatics

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

Sauces and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for extra umami)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 12 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (optional for spiciness)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for stir-frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Thinly slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and slice the chilies if using. Rinse and pluck the Thai basil leaves from the stems.
  2. Heat the Oil: Warm vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, ready for stir-frying.
  3. Cook the Garlic and Chilies: Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies to the hot oil, stirring briskly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
  4. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the pan, spreading it out to sear. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and starts to brown slightly.
  5. Add Sauces and Seasonings: Pour in the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sprinkle sugar over the chicken. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly and cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Toss in Thai Basil: Add the fresh Thai basil leaves last, stirring constantly until they wilt and release their aroma, about 30 seconds.
  7. Serve Hot: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or your preferred side.

Notes

  • Using chicken thighs provides more flavor and tenderness compared to chicken breasts.
  • Adjust the number of Thai chilies based on your spice tolerance.
  • Fresh Thai basil is key for authentic flavor; if unavailable, sweet basil can be a substitute but will alter the dish’s taste.
  • This dish is best served immediately for optimal freshness and texture.
  • Optional fish sauce and oyster sauce enhance umami but can be omitted for a simpler soy-based taste.

Keywords: Thai basil chicken, stir-fry chicken, Thai recipe, quick dinner, basil chicken stir fry