Irresistible Thai Basil Chicken with Savory Flavors

Name: Thai Basil Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mixed colors); 2 shallots, sliced; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp sugar; 1-2 tsp chili paste or fresh chili peppers (adjust to taste); 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice; 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

July 27, 2025

Updated:

July 27, 2025

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Thai basil chicken is a dish that dances on your taste buds like a tiny party in your mouth. Imagine tender chicken, fragrant Thai basil, and a medley of vegetables all coated in a savory sauce that brings together sweet, salty, and just the right amount of heat. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to twirl your fork and serenade your dinner guests with an off-key rendition of “I Will Survive.”

Every time I whip up this delightful dish, I’m transported back to my first trip to Thailand — where I tried it on a bustling street corner, surrounded by the aromas of sizzling woks and laughter. The perfect blend of flavors made me feel like a culinary explorer. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, Thai basil chicken is sure to impress and tickle your senses.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Thai basil chicken is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
The vibrant colors and enticing aromas make it a feast for the eyes as well
With its unique flavor profile, it can be served over rice or noodles, allowing for endless meal variations
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever veggies you have on hand!

I remember when I first served this dish at a family get-together—everyone’s eyes lit up with intrigue when they caught a whiff of those aromatic spices.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Thai Basil: Look for vibrant green leaves; they add that unmistakable aromatic punch.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic becomes fragrant quickly!
Bell Peppers: Feel free to mix colors! They bring sweetness and crunch to the dish.
Shallots: These add depth; their mild sweetness complements the chicken beautifully.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while keeping flavors rich.
Sugar: A touch of sugar balances the savory elements perfectly.
Chili Paste or Fresh Chili Peppers: Adjust according to your heat preference; spicy is always exciting!
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright finish that lifts all the flavors.
Vegetable Oil: For frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!

Prepare Your Chicken and Veggies: Start by cutting the boneless chicken into bite-sized chunks. Slice the bell peppers and shallots so they’re ready to join the party in the pan.

Heat Up Your Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat about two tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. You want that sizzle!

Add Garlic and Shallots First: Toss in minced garlic and sliced shallots. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—about 1-2 minutes will do.

Cook Your Chicken**: Add the chicken pieces into the pan. Stir-fry until they’re golden brown and cooked through—approximately 7-8 minutes should suffice.

Add Veggies & Sauce**: Once your chicken is looking fabulous, throw in the bell peppers along with soy sauce, sugar, chili paste (or fresh chili), and lime juice. Stir everything together for about 3-5 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.

Add Thai Basil Last**: Finally, toss in those beautiful Thai basil leaves right at the end. Stir gently until they wilt slightly but maintain their vibrant color—this step brings freshness!

Enjoying this dish is like being wrapped in a warm culinary hug while doing salsa dancing at your dining table! You can serve it over jasmine rice or rice noodles for an extra satisfying experience. Happy cooking!

You Must Know

This Thai basil chicken recipe is quick, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights
The aroma of fresh basil combined with garlic will make your kitchen feel like a street food paradise
Plus, it’s super customizable based on what you have at home

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavors. Sauté garlic and chilies first for a fragrant base, then add chicken and cook until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp. Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more color and crunch, making it your own.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that authentic flavor, use fresh Thai basil instead of dried
Make sure to chop your vegetables evenly for consistent cooking
Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly

Cooking this dish always reminds me of the first time I tried it at a bustling night market in Thailand. The vibrant spices danced on my taste buds, and I knew I had to recreate that magic at home.

FAQ

Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?

Yes, but it won’t have the same unique flavor profile as Thai basil.

Is this dish spicy?

It can be spicy depending on how many chilies you use; adjust to your preference.

What should I serve with Thai basil chicken?

Serve it over jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal that satisfies.

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