Spicy Thai Basil Chicken
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels authentic, this Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is perfect! Bursting with aromatic flavors, this one-pan recipe comes together in just 25 minutes and is packed with healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free ingredients, making it a standout choice for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Thai bird chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Kitchen Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing spoon or spatula
Instructions
- Heat oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil until shimmering.
- Sauté garlic and chilies: Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook chicken: Increase the heat to high, add the diced chicken, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through.
- Add sauces: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar, mixing until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Incorporate basil: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the Thai basil leaves until wilted.
- Serve: Serve hot over cooked jasmine rice.
Cook’s Notes
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve. The heat level of this dish is easy to control—just adjust the amount of Thai bird chilies to suit your spice tolerance.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap the chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef, and add bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition. For a vegan version, use tofu in place of chicken and substitute a vegan oyster sauce alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over jasmine rice with a refreshing cucumber salad or crispy spring rolls on the side for a complete, well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, as microwaving can make the basil wilt further and the chicken slightly rubbery.
Common Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat when ready to serve, though it’s best to add fresh basil right before serving for the brightest flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level can be easily adjusted by modifying the amount of Thai bird chilies used, so it’s simple to make it milder or spicier to taste.
Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?
Thai basil has a distinct anise-like flavor that’s key to this dish’s authenticity, but if you can’t find it, regular sweet basil can be used in a pinch as a substitute.