Easy Basil Chicken Recipe: Flavorful and Quick!

The smell of freshly cooked basil chicken, with its alluring mix of spices and aromatic herbs, can truly make any kitchen feel like a high-end bistro. Basil chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai as it's known in Thailand, is a dish that promises a burst of flavors in minimal time. This quick basil chicken recipe is perfect for those who want a delicious, healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here's how you can whip up this flavorful dish in no time.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast or thigh, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4-6 Thai red chilies, finely sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 medium-sized red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves, packed
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
• Lime wedges for serving

🌿 Note: Authentic Thai basil (Thai Holy Basil) is preferred for its unique aroma, but sweet basil can also be used if you can't find Thai basil.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

• Slice the chicken into thin pieces to ensure quick cooking.
• Prepare your ingredients: mince the garlic, slice the chilies, bell pepper, and onion, and pluck the basil leaves from their stems.

Cooking

1. Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies to the pan, sautéing them until they are fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds to a minute.
3. Add the sliced chicken to the pan, cooking until it turns white and starts to brown.
4. Incorporate the bell pepper and onion, stir-frying until they start to soften but retain some crunch.
5. Mix in the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water or broth. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
6. Let the sauce come to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
7. Add the basil leaves, stir quickly until they just wilt. This preserves their vibrant color and potent aroma.
8. Remove from heat. Basil chicken is typically served with a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top.

🔍 Note: If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more water or broth. Conversely, if it's too thin, you can simmer a bit longer to reduce it.

Serving Suggestions

• Rice: Pair it with Jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Fried Egg: A traditional touch in Thailand is to serve it with a fried egg on top. The runny yolk mixes beautifully with the dish.
• Vegetables: Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables for an extra dose of nutrients.

Customization Ideas

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a meatless alternative.
• Protein Variations: Try shrimp, beef, or pork for different protein options.
• Add Heat: Increase the number of chilies or add chili flakes for an extra kick.

Health Benefits

Basil chicken isn't just about flavor; it also brings a host of health benefits:

• Protein Rich: Chicken provides a high-quality source of protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Herbs and Spices: Basil is loaded with antioxidants, and garlic has potential cardiovascular benefits.
• Nutrient Dense: Peppers and onions add vitamins and minerals to your meal.

🍲 Note: This dish is a great example of how flavorful, exotic dishes can be made quickly without compromising on nutrition.

So, there you have it—a quick basil chicken recipe that's simple to prepare yet delivers a complex and satisfying taste profile. It's the perfect go-to meal when you're short on time but craving something special. Whether you serve it with a side of rice or add your own unique twist, basil chicken is sure to become a regular in your culinary rotation.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh Thai basil?

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While dried basil will add some flavor, fresh basil, particularly Thai basil, is key to achieving the authentic taste of Pad Krapow Gai. If fresh basil isn’t available, Italian basil can be a substitute, but the dish will lack the unique peppery notes of Thai basil.

Is this recipe spicy?

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It can be adjusted according to your heat tolerance. The recipe includes Thai chilies, which can be quite hot, but you can reduce or increase the amount to suit your spice preference. Removing the seeds from the chilies will also lessen the heat.

Can I make this dish in advance?

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While it’s best served fresh for the best flavors, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the chicken and vegetables close to serving to ensure the basil and veggies retain their freshness and vibrant colors.