This Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is quick, tasty, and full of flavors! With colorful veggies and fresh basil, it’s a dish that brings a burst of happiness to your plate.
Cooking this is a breeze! Just chop, toss, and stir-fry. I love how the basil aroma fills my kitchen—it’s like a happy little dance of smells! 😄 Serve it over rice for a real treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, but you can use either. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Vegetables: Green beans are perfect for crunch, but snap peas or broccoli work well too! Feel free to mix in any veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or carrots.
Thai Basil: Thai basil adds unique flavor. If it’s hard to find, sweet basil works in a pinch. Just remember, it won’t have that signature anise taste of Thai basil.
Chilies: Adjust heat by using more or fewer Thai chilies. If you can’t find them, red pepper flakes or sriracha can also add a kick!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Tender and Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender, avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking. Here’s how:
- Begin with the oil hot before adding your ingredients.
- Cook the chicken pieces in batches if necessary, ensuring they have space to brown.
- Don’t overcook—it’s done when it’s no longer pink inside. You can always cook it a bit more if needed.
This way, your chicken will be juicy and full of flavor every time! Enjoy cooking your stir-fry!
Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Oil: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Garlic: 4 cloves, thinly sliced
- Chilies: 1-2 Thai red chilies, sliced (optional, adjust to taste)
- Vegetables: 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into chunks
- Basil: 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (or sweet basil if unavailable)
- Sauces:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. In just about 25 minutes or less, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers, which means it’s hot and ready for cooking.
2. Cook the Garlic and Chilies:
Add the sliced garlic and Thai red chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, but be careful not to let them burn.
3. Add the Chicken:
Now, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Stir-fry them until they are mostly cooked through and lightly browned. This should take about 5-6 minutes.
4. Toss in the Vegetables:
Next, add the green beans and red bell pepper to the pan. Continue stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still have a nice crunch.
5. Combine the Sauces:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables and stir well to make sure everything is coated evenly.
6. Add the Basil:
Finally, toss in the fresh basil leaves and stir-fry just until the basil wilts—this should only take about 30 seconds.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the stir-fry from heat and serve it hot over jasmine rice. If you like, you can garnish your dish with a few extra basil leaves for a fresh touch. Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry!
FAQ About Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! This dish works well with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as shrimp and tofu cook faster than chicken.
What Can I Substitute for Thai Basil?
If you can’t find Thai basil, sweet basil can be used in its place. While it lacks the anise flavor of Thai basil, it will still add a nice aromatic touch to your stir-fry.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy extra heat, add more Thai red chilies or include a dash of sriracha or chili sauce when mixing the sauces. Adjust the spiciness to your preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, and enjoy again!
