Craving a dish that’s quick, full of flavor, and has a spicy kick? Try this classic Thai street food dish, Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai. This recipe is packed with the bold flavors of garlic, chilies, and Thai basil, all stir-fried with ground chicken for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice and a fried egg on top. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking to try something new, Pad Krapow Gai is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Benefits:
- Protein-packed meal: Ground chicken provides a lean source of protein, making this dish both nutritious and filling.
- Quick and easy: With a short prep time and fast cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the spiciness level by adding more or fewer chilies, and swap in different vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
- Authentic flavors: The combination of garlic, Thai chilies, and fresh basil brings authentic Thai flavors right to your table.
Fresh, flavorful, and filled with Mediterranean goodness!
Ingredients:
| For the Chicken: ✦ 1 lb ground chicken ✦ 1 tablespoon vegetable oil ✦ 4 cloves garlic, minced ✦ 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, minced (adjust to taste) ✦ 1 tablespoon soy sauce ✦1 tablespoon oyster sauce ✦1 tablespoon fish sauce ✦1 teaspoon sugar ✦1 tablespoon fish sauce ✦2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves ✦1 tablespoon water (optional, to loosen the sauce) | |
| For Serving ✦ Steamed jasmine rice ✦ Fried eggs (optional) |
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by mincing the garlic and Thai chilies. Be careful with the chilies if you prefer a milder dish – you can always remove the seeds to reduce heat. Pick the Thai basil leaves from their stems and set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chilies, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully cooked and browned.
Step 3: Add the Sauces
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of water to help create a sauce.
Step 4: Add the Thai Basil
Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil just enough. Stir until the leaves are evenly distributed and slightly wilted.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Spicy Thai Basil Chicken over steamed jasmine rice, and if you’d like, top each plate with a fried egg for an extra indulgent touch. Enjoy this quick and flavorful dish!
Nutrition Facts: (per serving)
| 350 | 20g | 12g | 12g |
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
View Full Nutrition Label:
| Total Fat: 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat: 4g | 20% |
| Sodium: 700mg | 30% |
| Total Carbohydrate: 12g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber: 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars: 3g | |
| Protein: 32g | 64% |
| Calcium: 40mg | 4% |
| Iron: 1.5mg | 8% |
| Potassium: 400mg | 12% |
Cook’s Note:
For a more traditional touch, use holy basil (if available) instead of Thai basil, which has a more peppery flavor.
Tips:
- Adjust the heat level to your preference by adding more or fewer chilies.
- Ground turkey or pork can be substituted for chicken if desired.
- Serve with a wedge of lime for a zesty finish.
With this Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai), you can enjoy the vibrant, bold flavors of Thai cuisine right in your own home. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s sure to impress!
