Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with this mouthwatering Thai Basil Chicken! Bursting with vibrant flavors and aromas, this dish captures the essence of Thai cuisine in every bite. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and spicy chilies, all brought together by the fresh notes of Thai basil, makes for a truly satisfying meal. Perfectly served over fluffy jasmine rice, it’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing your friends at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 Thai bird chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies to the skillet, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Next, add the sliced chicken to the skillet, cooking until it’s no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated with that irresistible sauce.
- Gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves, stirring until they wilt, which should take about 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and serve over a bed of fluffy, cooked jasmine rice. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of the sauce before cooking. This will enhance the taste even more! Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice preference; remember, they pack quite a punch! Fresh Thai basil is crucial for authenticity, but if you can’t find it, you can substitute with sweet basil, keeping in mind the flavor will be a little different.
Cooking Techniques
Stir-frying is the key technique in this recipe, allowing for quick cooking and vibrant results. It’s essential to keep the heat high and maintain constant movement in the pan, which helps to achieve that lovely golden brown color on the chicken while preserving the freshness of the basil and vegetables. A well-seasoned wok or non-stick skillet can make all the difference in how your dish turns out!
FAQ
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp, beef, or even tofu—simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I can’t find Thai bird chilies?
You can substitute with serrano or jalapeño peppers for a similar heat level.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Conclusion
Thai Basil Chicken is a delightful recipe that not only brings the vibrant tastes of Thailand to your table but also offers a quick and easy cooking experience. With its dazzling array of flavors and colorful presentation, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. So gather your ingredients, kick up the heat, and rejoice in a dish that’s as delicious as it is simple to make. Enjoy your culinary journey!