Thai Basil Chicken: A Quick, Fragrant Dinner to Brighten Any Night

Introduction

This Thai Basil Chicken recipe turns simple pantry staples into a sizzling, aromatic meal that’s ready in minutes. Ground chicken cooks up fast and soaks up the savory-sweet sauce for an intensely satisfying bowl. Fresh basil and a hit of chile lift the dish with bright, herbal heat. If you like bold Asian flavors, try our Thai chicken peanut noodles for another colorful dinner idea.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This dish is brilliant for busy nights because it uses one pan and cooks in under 30 minutes, delivering big flavor with minimal fuss. Ground chicken makes the texture approachable for the whole family while allowing the sauces to cling to every bite. The recipe is flexible so you can dial up the heat or keep it mild, and fresh basil added at the end keeps the aroma lively and garden-fresh. It pairs effortlessly with steamed jasmine rice for a simple, balanced plate. If you enjoy exploring Thai twists on comfort food, you might also like our take on the Thai fried chicken sandwich for a crunchy contrast.

Flavor and Texture

This stir-fry balances savory umami from soy and oyster sauces with the distinct briny note of fish sauce and a touch of sugar to round the edges. Ground chicken provides tender, slightly chewy morsels that caramelize nicely when seared over high heat. Fresh basil added at the end releases fragrant oils, creating a bright, peppery lift that contrasts the savory base. Thin slices of red chili pepper add fresh heat and a splash of color, while jasmine rice soaks up the glossy sauce, making each bite comforting and layered. The overall mouthfeel is saucy but not soupy, with leafy bursts from the basil and crisped edges on the chicken.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced (optional)
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Step by Step Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and red chili peppers, and sauté until fragrant.
3. Increase the heat to high and add the ground chicken, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar.
5. Add the fresh basil leaves and stir until just wilted.
6. Serve hot over cooked jasmine rice.

Tips for Best Results

Use a hot pan and give the chicken room to brown so it develops those caramelized bits that add depth to the sauce. Taste before adding more soy or fish sauce since saltiness can vary by brand. Tear larger basil leaves by hand so they wilt evenly and release more fragrance. If you prefer more sauce, add a splash of chicken stock or water and simmer briefly to marry the flavors. For milder heat, remove seeds from the chilies or omit them entirely.

Storage and Make Ahead

Cool leftovers to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce and restore moisture. This recipe also freezes well: portion into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Cook jasmine rice separately and store it alongside to keep textures at their best.

Final Thought

Thai Basil Chicken is a weeknight hero that feels special without a long list of steps. Fresh basil and quick searing turn basic ingredients into something vivid and memorable. Keep the components handy and this vibrant meal will become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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