Name: Quick and Easy Thai Basil Chicken for Weeknights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon fish sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Chopped peanuts for garnish

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🔥 Quick and Easy Thai Basil Chicken for Weeknights 🍽️

1. Introduction

Looking for a flavorful, satisfying dinner that comes together in minutes? Thai Basil Chicken offers an authentic taste of Thailand right in your own kitchen. This stir-fry features tender chicken infused with aromatic Thai basil leaves, fiery chilies, and savory sauces that dance on your palate. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers bold flavors without hours of prep—making it a beloved weeknight Thai dinner option. Trust me, after one try, you’ll be making this Thai basil stir-fry on repeat!

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 20-30 minutes: Perfect for busy evenings.
One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Customizable spice level: Adjust the heat to suit your taste buds.

Versatile: Serve over rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a healthy twist.

3. Ingredient Notes

Using high-quality ingredients really makes a difference here. Fresh Thai basil is essential for that authentic aroma and flavor—try to find it at your local Asian market or specialty grocery store. Fresh garlic and ginger add a fragrant, warming depth, so don’t skimp on them. For the chicken, skinless, boneless thighs give a juicy bite, but breasts work too if cooked carefully. Soy sauce and oyster sauce provide the savory umami backbone, so opt for low-sodium versions if you prefer less salt. For spice, fresh Thai chilies or red pepper flakes will give your dish a fiery kick.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Investing in the right tools makes cooking this Thai basil chicken effortless. A Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer can be useful if you want to prepare an entire meal with minimal oil, though a wok or large skillet is ideal for stir-fries. For prep, a Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master makes chopping garlic, ginger, and chilies quick and safe. To serve in style, a set of JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set keeps leftovers fresh.

5. How to Make Thai Basil Chicken

Prepare Your Ingredients

Slice chicken into thin strips. Mince garlic and ginger, then chop Thai chilies if using fresh. Wash the Thai basil leaves gently, preserving their aroma. Have your sauces and seasonings ready to go; stir-frying goes fast!

Cook the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until they turn golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. They should be cooked through but still juicy. Remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry Aromatics & Sauces

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in garlic, ginger, and chilies, stirring until fragrant—your kitchen will fill with an inviting aroma. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a splash of fish sauce if available. Let the sauce bubble gently as it coats the chicken.

Add Basil & Final Touches

Return the chicken to the pan, stirring to combine. Add fresh Thai basil leaves last; they should wilt slightly but retain their vibrant flavor and aroma. Adjust seasoning, adding salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice for the full experience.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Use high heat to get a nice sear without overcooking the chicken. Keep all ingredients prepped before cooking—stir-fry moves fast! Don’t add the basil too early; it’s best added at the end for maximum fragrance and flavor. If using dried Thai basil, be mindful that it’s milder; fresh leaves deliver that authentic punch. For a vegetarian twist, swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re looking to adapt this dish, try replacing chicken with shrimp or thinly sliced beef. For a soy-free version, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. For extra heat, add more fresh chilies or a dash of chili oil. Vegetarian options work beautifully with firm tofu, which soaks up the savory sauces deliciously.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or microwave until steaming hot. The basil may lose some of its potency, but the flavors will still shine through.

9. FAQ

Can I make Thai Basil Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While dried basil doesn’t pack the same punch, a teaspoon can substitute in a pinch. For that authentic aroma, fresh Thai basil is unbeatable.

What to serve with Thai Basil Chicken?

Sticky jasmine rice or steamed long-grain rice makes the perfect base. For variety, serve with Asian-style noodles or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

10. Conclusion

With its vibrant flavors and quick preparation, this Thai Basil Chicken recipe is ideal for busy weeknights craving Asian-inspired comfort food. Keep fresh ingredients on hand, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal whenever you like. For more delicious Asian dinner ideas, check out our crispy Southwest egg rolls or the honey butter chicken. Happy cooking!