This Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is quick and full of flavor! It features tender chicken, fresh basil, and a tasty sauce that brings it all together in minutes.
You can whip this up after a long day when the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. Just toss everything in the pan, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
I love serving it over steamed rice for a complete meal. Plus, it smells amazing while cooking, and you’ll feel like a chef with minimal effort! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish. If you want a healthier option, you could use ground turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to cook the tofu well so it absorbs the flavors!
Green Beans: They add a lovely crunch. If you don’t have green beans, feel free to substitute with snap peas or bell peppers for a colorful touch.
Thai Red Chilies: These provide heat and flavor. If you prefer milder dishes, you can use sweet bell peppers or even omit them. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Thai Basil: This unique herb makes the dish authentic. If you can’t find it, regular basil or even mint could be used, but the flavor will be different. A mix of those herbs might also work nicely!
How Do I Perfectly Stir-Fry for Great Flavor?
Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking. Here’s how to make it effective:
- Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding oil; this helps to prevent sticking and ensures a good sear.
- Keep stirring constantly to cook everything evenly and prevent burning. It’s about keeping the ingredients moving!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches to achieve that lovely caramelization.
With these tips, you’ll have a flavorful stir-fry that’s both quick and satisfying!
Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 cup long green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 Thai red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
- 2 eggs (optional, for frying on top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making it a total of 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want it to be nice and hot to get a good stir-fry!
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced Thai chilies to the hot oil. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn them!
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced onion and green beans. Stir-fry these for about 2-3 minutes until the beans start to soften and the onions turn translucent.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook it until there’s no pink left, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir it around to ensure even cooking!
5. Add the Sauce:
Now, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix everything well so that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Incorporate the Basil:
Gently add the fresh Thai basil leaves, stirring them into the mixture and allowing them to wilt for about 1-2 minutes. This will give that wonderful aromatic flavor!
7. Remove from Heat:
Once the basil has wilted, remove the skillet from the heat. Your stir-fry is nearly done!
8. Fry the Eggs (Optional):
If you want to top your stir-fry with eggs, heat a small pan and fry the eggs sunny side up until the edges are crispy. This adds a lovely richness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Thai basil chicken stir-fry hot over jasmine rice. If you made eggs, add one on top of each serving, and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired. Enjoy!
This Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is not only quick and easy but full of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If using tofu, make sure to use firm tofu and cook it until golden for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! Adjust the heat by adding more Thai red chilies or including a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. If you want a milder flavor, reduce the chili quantity or deseed the chilies before slicing.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, but you can also serve it with noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad would complement it nicely!
