Stir-Fries

Thai Basil Chicken

Name: Thai Basil Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup (20g) fresh Thai basil leaves; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp grated ginger; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh chilies; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp lime juice

By Imani Yarrow · June 19, 2026 · Stir-Fries

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total40 min

Serves4

As a home cook, I'm always excited to share recipes that bring the flavors of Asia to your table. Thai Basil Chicken is one of my favorite dishes to make and enjoy with family and friends. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant basil, and a savory sauce is a match made in heaven. In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making authentic Thai Basil Chicken in the comfort of your own home.

What I love about this recipe is its simplicity and flexibility. You can adjust the level of spiciness to your liking, and add your favorite vegetables to make it a complete meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to explore the flavors of Thailand.

I remember the first time I had Thai Basil Chicken at a restaurant. The aroma of basil and chilies filled the air, and the flavors danced on my palate. I was determined to recreate this dish at home, and after some experimentation, I came up with this recipe. It's been a staple in my household ever since, and I'm excited to share it with you.

So, let's get started! In this recipe, we'll cover the basics of making Thai Basil Chicken, from preparing the ingredients to cooking the dish to perfection. With a few simple steps and some practice, you'll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time.

Whether you're a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors, this recipe is easily adaptable to your taste. You can adjust the amount of chilies or omit them altogether for a milder version. The key is to find the right balance of flavors that works for you, and I'm confident that this recipe will become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The dish is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the level of spiciness and add your favorite vegetables.
Thai Basil Chicken is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for dinner parties and special occasions.
The recipe is budget-friendly and can be made with ingredients found in most supermarkets.
The dish can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Thai Basil Chicken is a healthy and nutritious option, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to making great Thai Basil Chicken lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The dish relies on the harmony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, which are achieved through the combination of ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and chilies. The addition of fragrant basil and crunchy vegetables adds depth and freshness to the dish.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. Stir-frying is a crucial step in making Thai Basil Chicken, as it allows the ingredients to cook quickly and evenly. By using high heat and constant stirring, we can achieve a beautiful caramelization on the chicken and vegetables, which enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

The type of protein used in this recipe is also important. Chicken thighs are ideal for Thai Basil Chicken because they remain juicy and tender even after cooking. The marinade helps to tenderize the chicken and add flavor, making it a crucial step in the recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Thai Basil Chicken, you'll need a few key ingredients, including chicken thighs, Thai basil, chilies, garlic, and soy sauce. You can find these ingredients at most Asian markets or well-stocked supermarkets. When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose fresh and high-quality items to ensure the best flavor and texture.

One of the most important ingredients in this recipe is Thai basil. This fragrant herb is a staple in Thai cuisine and adds a unique flavor and aroma to the dish. You can find Thai basil at most Asian markets or grow your own at home.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessChicken thighs are ideal for Thai Basil Chicken because they remain juicy and tender even after cooking. Look for boneless and skinless thighs to make the recipe easier to prepare.
2 tbsp vegetable oilVegetable oil is used for stir-frying and adds a neutral flavor to the dish. You can also use other oils like peanut or coconut oil for added flavor.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in Thai cuisine and adds a pungent flavor to the dish. Mince the garlic finely to release its oils and flavor.
1 cup (20g) fresh Thai basil leavesThai basil is a fragrant herb that adds a unique flavor and aroma to the dish. Choose fresh leaves with no signs of wilting or browning.
2 tbsp soy sauceSoy sauce is a salty and savory condiment that adds depth to the dish. Use a high-quality soy sauce that is low in sodium and has a rich flavor.
1 tbsp oyster sauceOyster sauce is a sweet and savory condiment that adds a rich flavor to the dish. Use a high-quality oyster sauce that is low in sodium and has a rich flavor.
1 tsp grated gingerGinger is a fundamental ingredient in Thai cuisine and adds a spicy and warm flavor to the dish. Grate the ginger finely to release its oils and flavor.
1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh chiliesChilies add a spicy and smoky flavor to the dish. Use fresh chilies for the best flavor and texture.
1/2 tsp saltSalt is used to enhance the flavor of the dish and bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
1/4 tsp black pepperBlack pepper is used to add a subtle and warm flavor to the dish.
2 tbsp fish sauceFish sauce is a salty and savory condiment that adds depth to the dish. Use a high-quality fish sauce that is low in sodium and has a rich flavor.
1 tbsp lime juiceLime juice is used to add a sour and tangy flavor to the dish. Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor and texture.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerTongs or spatula

How to Make Thai Basil Chicken

1
Prepare the ingredients by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mincing the garlic, and grating the ginger.
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice to make the marinade.
3
Add the chicken to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
5
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6
Add the chopped chilies and stir-fry for another minute, until they start to soften.
7
Add the fresh Thai basil leaves and stir-fry until they start to wilt, about 1-2 minutes.
8
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir-fry until the chicken is coated with the sauce and the basil is wilted.
9
Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste.
10
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165 F (74 C).
11
Transfer the dish to a serving platter and garnish with additional Thai basil leaves if desired.
12
Serve the Thai Basil Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles and enjoy.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.
Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or fewer chilies.
Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
Use a wok or large skillet to stir-fry the ingredients quickly and evenly.
Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the temperature and affect the cooking process.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure the dish is balanced and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not adjusting the level of spiciness to your liking, which can make the dish too hot or too mild.
Not stir-frying the ingredients quickly and evenly, which can affect the cooking process and the final texture of the dish.
Not seasoning the dish to taste, which can make it bland and unappetizing.
Not using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which can make it undercooked or overcooked.

Variations and Substitutions

Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
Use different types of protein, such as shrimp or pork, to change the flavor and texture of the dish.
Add nuts or seeds, such as peanuts or sesame seeds, to add crunch and flavor to the dish.
Use different types of chilies, such as jalapenos or serranos, to change the level of spiciness.
Add a splash of citrus juice, such as lime or lemon, to add a sour and tangy flavor to the dish.
Use different types of herbs, such as cilantro or mint, to change the flavor and aroma of the dish.
Serve the dish with steamed rice or noodles, or add it to a salad or wrap for a quick and easy meal.

What to Serve With Thai Basil Chicken

Thai Basil Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles, or add it to a salad or wrap for a quick and easy meal. The dish is also great with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Some popular sides to serve with Thai Basil Chicken include steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried noodles, and roasted vegetables. You can also add the dish to a salad or wrap, such as a chicken wrap or a Thai-inspired salad.

Steamed jasmine riceStir-fried noodlesRoasted vegetablesFresh saladChicken wrapThai-inspired salad

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Thai Basil Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store the dish, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat the dish, simply microwave it or stir-fry it in a pan with a little oil until it's hot and steaming. You can also add the dish to a salad or wrap, or serve it with steamed rice or noodles.

When freezing the dish, it's best to freeze it in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it as desired.

It's also important to note that the dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply cook the chicken and stir-fry the ingredients, then let it cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thai Basil Chicken?

Thai Basil Chicken is a popular Thai dish made with chicken, Thai basil, chilies, and a variety of sauces and seasonings. It's a spicy and savory dish that is often served with steamed rice or noodles.

Is Thai Basil Chicken spicy?

Yes, Thai Basil Chicken can be spicy, depending on the level of heat you prefer. The dish typically includes chilies, which add a spicy and smoky flavor. However, you can adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or fewer chilies.

Can I make Thai Basil Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Thai Basil Chicken ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply cook the chicken and stir-fry the ingredients, then let it cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Thai Basil Chicken?

Some common mistakes to avoid when making Thai Basil Chicken include overcooking the chicken, not using high-quality ingredients, and not adjusting the level of spiciness to your liking. It's also important to stir-fry the ingredients quickly and evenly to prevent the dish from becoming greasy or soggy.

Can I substitute other types of protein for the chicken?

Yes, you can substitute other types of protein for the chicken, such as shrimp or pork. Simply adjust the cooking time and method according to the protein you choose.

What are some popular sides to serve with Thai Basil Chicken?

Some popular sides to serve with Thai Basil Chicken include steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried noodles, and roasted vegetables. You can also add the dish to a salad or wrap for a quick and easy meal.

How do I store and reheat Thai Basil Chicken?

To store Thai Basil Chicken, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. To reheat the dish, simply microwave it or stir-fry it in a pan with a little oil until it's hot and steaming.

Can I freeze Thai Basil Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze Thai Basil Chicken for up to 2 months. Simply transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze. When you're ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it as desired.

The Full Recipe

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