Thai Basil Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Stir-Fry that is Spicy and an Aromatic Delight

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: ground turkey

Tofu is plant-based and lower in calories.

Thai basil leaves

🥗Healthier: sweet basil

💰Cheaper: regular basil

Sweet basil is more accessible and offers a similar flavor.

oyster sauce

🥗Healthier: mushroom sauce

💰Cheaper: soy sauce

Mushroom sauce is vegan and lower in sodium.

bird's eye chili

🥗Healthier: jalapeño

💰Cheaper: red pepper flakes

Jalapeño offers heat with more availability.

Heat a wok over high heat and add oil. The high heat is key for quick searing and stir-frying. Once the oil is hot, add the shallots, garlic, and Thai red chili. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds to a minute, just until they become fragrant and slightly softened. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

Add the ground or finely chopped chicken to the wok. Stir-fry continuously, breaking up any large pieces as it cooks. Keep stirring until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.

Pour in a little bit of water or broth to deglaze the wok, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything well to make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.

Finally, add the basil leaves and gently stir them into the chicken mixture. Cook just until the basil wilts and releases its aroma. Your Thai Basil Chicken is now ready to serve!

Enjoy the Thai Basil Chicken with your choice of white, brown, or jasmine rice. To make it a complete meal, pair it with a fried or sunny-side-up egg.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens