Looking for a simple and delicious dish that brings serious flavor to your table? Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a fantastic option! With tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and the perfect kick of heat, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to make. I’ll guide you through every step, from prepping your ingredients to cooking up a storm. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and spice up your weeknight dinners!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: This dish embodies the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, combining spicy, savory, and aromatic elements that excite the palate.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, making it both convenient and delicious.
- Customizable Heat: The use of bird's eye chilies allows you to adjust the spiciness to your liking, making it suitable for all spice tolerances.
- Fresh Ingredients: Featuring fresh Thai basil and colorful bell peppers, this dish not only tastes great but also looks appealing on the plate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast, thinly sliced for optimal cooking
- 2 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, packed
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce, for umami depth
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, for richness
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce, to enhance flavor
- 1 teaspoon sugar, to balance the savory notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
First, slice the chicken breast into thin pieces. This helps it cook fast. Next, mince the garlic and finely chop the Thai bird's eye chilies. You can adjust the amount of chilies based on how spicy you like it.
Cooking Process
1. Heating oil and sautéing aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers.
2. Stir-frying chicken and vegetables: Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then, add the sliced chicken. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until it turns white and is cooked through. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and cook for 2 more minutes. The peppers should be tender but still crisp.
3. Incorporating sauce and basil: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything. Finally, turn off the heat and add the fresh Thai basil leaves. Gently mix them in, allowing them to wilt and release their lovely aroma.
Serve the spicy Thai basil chicken over fluffy jasmine rice. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Variations
Protein Substitutes
You can switch the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options work great. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice texture. Tofu is perfect for a vegetarian option. Choose firm or extra-firm tofu for the best results. Cut it into cubes and add it when you stir-fry.
If you want to use different cuts of chicken, try thighs or drumsticks. They have more flavor and stay juicy. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly.
Vegetable Additions
Want to add more veggies? Broccoli and snap peas fit well in this dish. They add color and crunch. Just blanch them first for a few minutes before adding to the wok.
You can also use other bell pepper colors, like green or yellow. Each type gives a different taste and look. Mix and match to find your favorite combo.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in a proper container. Glass or plastic containers with lids work best. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the dish cools down before sealing.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use a pan on low heat. This keeps the dish flavorful. Stir it often to avoid burning. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also use a microwave, but make sure to cover it to trap steam.
FAQs
What is Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a vibrant dish from Thailand. This meal features tender chicken cooked with fresh Thai basil and spicy chilies. The blend of flavors comes from sauces like soy, oyster, and fish sauce. This dish reflects the balance of heat and herbs in Thai cuisine.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead. Cook the chicken and vegetables, then cool and store in the fridge. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat. You can add a splash of water to keep it moist. This method saves time during busy weekdays.
What can I serve with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs well with jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the flavors from the chicken. You can also serve it with a simple cucumber salad. This adds a nice crunch and freshness. Other great options include stir-fried vegetables or spring rolls.
Pro Tips
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the number of bird's eye chilies based on your spice tolerance. Start with one and add more if you like it spicier.
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh Thai basil for the best flavor. Dried basil won't provide the same aromatic experience.
- High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry over high heat to ensure the chicken cooks quickly and retains its juiciness. This prevents overcooking.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a squeeze of lime or lemon juice when serving for an extra layer of flavor that brightens the dish.
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a simple yet tasty dish. We covered main ingredients like chicken, chilies, and Thai basil. I shared steps for preparing, cooking, and adjusting spice levels. You can also switch proteins or add veggies for variety. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat correctly to keep flavors strong. Enjoy this dish with rice or noodles for a complete meal. Dive in and savor the unique flavors you can create.
