Description
Craving something bold, fast, and packed with flavor? Thai Basil Chicken is the ultimate answer. With juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, spicy chilies, and the signature punch of fresh Thai basil, this dish is a flavor bomb that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re after a quick dinner, a healthy lunch idea, or meal prep that doesn’t taste like leftovers, this easy recipe checks every box. It’s a great addition to your rotation of quick meals, healthy dinners, and Thai-inspired food ideas—flavorful, satisfying, and faster than takeout.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup Thai basil leaves
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 Thai red chilies (or to taste), finely chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or avocado oil)
Instructions
1. Prepare all ingredients by chopping the chicken, bell peppers, garlic, chilies, and picking basil leaves.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar to create your sauce.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned and nearly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and chilies for about 30 seconds.
5. Add bell peppers and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
6. Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Turn off the heat and stir in the Thai basil. Toss until the leaves are wilted but still vibrant.
8. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if using. Serve hot over jasmine rice.
Notes
Add basil after turning off the heat to preserve its flavor and color.
For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in a little soy sauce and garlic for 10 minutes before cooking.
Serve it with a crispy fried egg for a traditional Thai touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate with rice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Thai Basil Chicken, easy dinner, quick Thai recipe, spicy chicken stir-fry, healthy meal ideas