Thai Basil Chicken Stir-fry, known as Pad Krapow Gai in Thailand, is a delicious and aromatic dish made with minced chicken, fresh Thai basil, and a savoury, spicy sauce. This quick and easy meal is a staple of Thai cuisine, offering a perfect balance of flavours and health benefits. In this blog, we will guide you on how to make authentic Thai Basil Chicken Stir-fry and explore its nutritional advantages.
Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken Stir-fry
To prepare this flavorful and healthy dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (minced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red chili (thinly sliced, adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1/2 cup sliced onions
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 egg (for serving, optional)
- Steamed jasmine rice (for serving)
Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Thai Basil Chicken Stir-fry
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir well and set aside.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Aromatics
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sliced chili, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the minced chicken to the pan and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and slightly browned.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Sauce
Toss in the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, then pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Thai Basil
Turn off the heat and immediately add the fresh Thai basil leaves. Stir gently until the basil is wilted and infused with the dish’s flavors.
Step 6: Serve with Rice
Serve the Thai Basil Chicken Stir-fry over steamed jasmine rice and top with a fried egg for an authentic Thai experience.
Nutritional Benefits of Thai Basil Chicken Stir-fry
1. High-Protein Meal
Chicken provides an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and overall health.
2. Boosts Metabolism
Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which can enhance metabolism and aid in fat burning.
3. Rich in Antioxidants
Thai basil and garlic are packed with antioxidants that boost immunity and help fight inflammation.
4. Heart-Healthy Fats
The use of fresh ingredients and healthy oils helps maintain good heart health while keeping the dish flavorful.
5. Low in Carbohydrates
This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a great choice for a balanced diet when served with moderate portions of rice.
Thai Basil Chicken Stir-fry is a simple yet flavourful Thai dish that is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, this aromatic stir-fry will satisfy your cravings while providing essential vitamins and minerals. Try making Thai Basil Chicken Stir-fry today and enjoy a taste of Thailand!
If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and let us know your favorite variation in the comments!
