Description
Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) is a quick and flavorful Thai stir-fry made with ground chicken, fresh Thai basil, and a savory-spicy sauce. Perfect for a fast, authentic weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- Protein: 1 lb ground chicken
- Aromatics: 4 garlic cloves (minced), 2 shallots (sliced)
- Spice: 3–5 Thai bird’s eye chilies (chopped, adjust to taste)
- Sauce:
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- Others:
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
- 4 fried eggs (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Mince garlic, slice shallots, chop chilies, and pick fresh Thai basil leaves.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and water. Set aside.
- Heat Oil: In a wok or large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir-fry garlic, chilies, and shallots for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Chicken: Add ground chicken, break it apart, and cook until no longer pink.
- Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, stir well, and simmer for a few minutes.
- Stir in Basil: Turn off the heat, add Thai basil leaves, and stir until wilted.
- Serve: Spoon over jasmine rice and top with a crispy fried egg if desired.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, pork, or tofu.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute plant-based protein and replace fish sauce with soy sauce.
- Adjust Heat: Use more or fewer Thai chilies to control spice level.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, green beans, or baby corn.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: thai
Keywords: Thai Basil Chicken, Pad Krapow Gai, Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry, Thai Street Food, Quick Thai Recipe