Thai Basil Chicken, known as “Pad Krapow Gai” in Thailand, is a classic and aromatic Thai dish that exemplifies the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. This recipe combines tender pieces of chicken with aromatic Thai basil, garlic, chilies, and a savory sauce to create a tantalizingly spicy and savory experience. Thai Basil Chicken is a staple street food in Thailand, where the rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asia shine through. In this detailed recipe, we’ll delve into the history of Thai Basil Chicken and guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Thai flavors.

Thai cuisine is celebrated for its bold and balanced flavors, which combine the spicy, sweet, sour, and umami tastes in exquisite harmony. Thai Basil Chicken is a quintessential example of this culinary artistry, showcasing the use of fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and a balance of textures to create a truly memorable dish.

In Thailand, street food vendors often serve dishes like Pad Krapow Gai as a quick and flavorful meal that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. The use of basil, specifically Holy Basil (also known as Thai Basil), is a defining feature of this dish. Holy Basil has a distinct aroma and flavor that adds depth to the dish, and it is a beloved herb in Thai cooking.

The popularity of Thai Basil Chicken has transcended national borders, becoming a favorite in Thai restaurants worldwide. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, yet it offers a complex interplay of flavors that makes it both comforting and exciting.

SERVES: 4

PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES

COOKING TIME: 15 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups Thai holy basil leaves (regular basil can be used if Thai basil is unavailable)
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust to your desired level of spiciness)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional, for added color and flavor)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Jasmine rice, for serving
• Lime wedges and extra Thai chilies (optional, for serving)

INSTRUCTIONS 

1. In a small bowl, mix the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar to create the sauce. Set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced Thai bird’s eye chilies to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the wok, spreading them out to ensure even cooking. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink and has a nice sear on the outside.
5. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the wok, and stir to coat the chicken evenly with the flavorful sauce.
6. If using sliced bell peppers, add them to the wok and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften.
7. Tear the Thai holy basil leaves into the wok and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until the basil leaves are wilted and release their aromatic fragrance.
8. Season the dish with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
9. Remove the Thai Basil Chicken from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish.
10. Serve the Thai Basil Chicken hot over steamed jasmine rice, garnishing with lime wedges and extra Thai chilies if you desire an extra kick of heat.
11. Squeeze the lime wedges over the dish before eating to add a burst of tanginess that complements the flavors.
12. Enjoy the delightful harmony of spicy, savory, and aromatic tastes that Thai Basil Chicken brings to the table.

CONCLUSION:

• This Thai Basil Chicken recipe is a beautiful representation of the bold and captivating flavors that Thai cuisine is known for. The combination of succulent chicken, fragrant Thai basil, and the perfectly balanced sauce creates a dish that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Thailand. Whether you’re new to Thai flavors or a seasoned fan of Thai cuisine, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.