Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow) is a bold, garlicky stir-fry that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your kitchen. This quick and easy dish combines ground chicken with a savory, spicy sauce and fragrant basil leaves, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a flavorful date night at home. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a delightful alternative to takeout.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Ground chicken (or substitute with turkey, tempeh, or sliced boneless, skinless chicken thighs/breasts)
Low-sodium soy sauce
Fish sauce
Chili garlic sauce
Oyster sauce
Fresh Thai basil leaves (or Holy Basil, lemon basil, or regular basil)
Garlic, minced
Hot peppers (Thai bird’s eye chilies or a mix of hot and mild peppers)
Optional: Sriracha or preferred hot sauce
Optional toppings: Fried egg, sesame seeds, toasted cashew nuts, additional chili and basil, crispy onions, green onions, shaved coconut
Steamed jasmine rice or preferred noodles for serving

Directions

In a bowl, combine ground chicken with low-sodium soy sauce, fish sauce, chili garlic sauce, and oyster sauce. Mix well and let it marinate for a few minutes.
Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil, then sauté minced garlic and chopped hot peppers until fragrant.
Add the marinated chicken to the pan, breaking it apart and cooking until it’s fully cooked and slightly browned.
Stir in the fresh basil leaves and cook until they wilt.
Serve the Thai Basil Chicken over steamed jasmine rice or your choice of noodles. Top with a fried egg and additional garnishes as desired.

Nutrients

Per serving (approximately 250g):

Calories: 375
Protein: 50g
Total Fat: 17.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3.75g
Cholesterol: 175mg
Sodium: 1000mg
Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.5g
- Sugars: 2.5g

The Origin of Thai Basil Chicken

Thai Basil Chicken has its roots deeply embedded in Thai street food culture. In Thailand, street vendors cook this dish using fresh ingredients, typically cooked in a wok over high heat to bring out the robust flavors. The dish is widely enjoyed for its simplicity, balance of heat, savory sauce, and fragrant basil leaves. The Thai basil used in this dish is a key component of its distinct taste. Known for its peppery, slightly sweet flavor with hints of anise and cloves, Thai basil is what elevates this dish from a simple stir-fry to an aromatic, complex meal.

The name “Pad Krapow Gai” refers to two main ingredients: “Pad” meaning stir-fry, and “Krapow” meaning the holy basil used in the recipe, which is typically used in traditional Thai cooking. Although “Pad Krapow” is usually prepared with chicken (Gai), it can also be made with other proteins such as beef, pork, or even tofu for vegetarian options.

The Essential Ingredients and Their Role in Thai Basil Chicken

The secret to creating an authentic Thai Basil Chicken lies not only in the cooking method but in the careful balance of ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building the depth of flavor for this dish.

Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is often preferred for its quick cooking time and ability to absorb the spices and sauce beautifully. It’s tender, moist, and easy to work with, which makes it ideal for stir-fry. However, you can use ground turkey, pork, or even beef based on your preference. For a vegetarian option, tempeh or tofu are excellent alternatives.
Thai Basil: The distinct flavor of Thai basil is one of the highlights of this dish. Unlike Italian basil, Thai basil has a stronger, peppery taste with a subtle hint of anise and a slight sweetness. Fresh Thai basil leaves are essential in achieving the signature taste of this stir-fry. If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil can be used, but it won’t deliver the same aromatic profile.
Chilies and Garlic: The use of fresh garlic and Thai bird’s eye chilies is key in adding the spice and depth to the dish. The chilies are what give the dish its signature heat, while the garlic adds a fragrant pungency. For those who prefer a milder version, adjusting the amount of chili or removing it entirely can customize the heat level.
Fish Sauce: Fish sauce is a fundamental ingredient in Thai cuisine, providing the salty, umami base for the dish. It is an essential component in creating the savory depth of flavor that balances the sweetness from the sugar and the heat from the chilies.
Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: These two sauces bring a savory sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Soy sauce gives a slight saltiness and richness, while oyster sauce provides a slightly sweet, umami flavor.

Health Benefits of Thai Basil Chicken

While Thai Basil Chicken is known for its bold flavors, it’s also a relatively healthy dish when prepared with wholesome ingredients. Here’s a look at some of the health benefits associated with the main ingredients:

Protein-Rich: Ground chicken, the primary protein in this dish, is a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body function. It is lower in fat compared to other meats like beef and pork, making it a great option for those seeking to maintain a lean diet.
Thai Basil: Thai basil isn’t just a flavorful herb—it’s also packed with antioxidants. It contains essential oils that have been found to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties. It is also rich in vitamins A, K, and C, which support immune function, skin health, and blood circulation.
Garlic: Garlic has been shown to have a variety of health benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants and contains compounds like allicin, which have been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Chilies: The heat from chilies is due to a compound called capsaicin. Capsaicin has been shown to boost metabolism, reduce pain, and promote fat burning. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help improve circulation and reduce swelling.

How to Make Thai Basil Chicken at Home

One of the best things about Thai Basil Chicken is how easily it can be made at home. While the dish is typically associated with restaurants and street food vendors, it can be prepared quickly in your own kitchen with just a few simple steps. A wok or large skillet is typically used for stir-frying, but any large pan will do the job.

To start, marinate the ground chicken with a combination of soy sauce, fish sauce, and oyster sauce to infuse it with flavor. Heat the wok or pan and sauté garlic and chilies until fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken and cook it through, breaking it up into small crumbles. As the chicken begins to brown, toss in a generous amount of Thai basil leaves and allow them to wilt, releasing their fragrant oils.

For an added touch, serve the Thai Basil Chicken with a fried egg on top. The runny yolk creates a rich sauce that complements the savory flavors of the stir-fry. Thai Basil Chicken is typically served with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce.

Variations of Thai Basil Chicken

While the classic recipe remains a favorite, there are many variations of Thai Basil Chicken that can be made depending on personal preferences or dietary restrictions:

Vegan/Vegetarian: For a plant-based version, you can replace the ground chicken with tofu or tempeh. These alternatives soak up the sauce well and provide a similar texture. You may also want to use a plant-based fish sauce substitute for a fully vegan dish.
Spicy and Sweet: If you love a touch of sweetness to balance the heat, you can add a small amount of sugar or honey to the sauce. This helps balance the flavors and complements the fiery chilies.
Adding Vegetables: Some people enjoy adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans to their Thai Basil Chicken. These vegetables not only add nutritional value but also add a variety of textures and colors to the dish.
Different Proteins: While chicken is the classic choice, this recipe can be adapted with other proteins. Pork, beef, or even shrimp can be substituted for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Thai Basil Chicken is a flavorful, simple, and healthy dish that brings a taste of Thailand right to your home. With its aromatic Thai basil, savory sauce, and bold spices, it’s no wonder this stir-fry has become a global favorite. Whether you’re a fan of spice or prefer a milder version, this dish is highly adaptable to suit all taste preferences.

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