Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

SPICY THAI BASIL CHICKEN is one of those meals that quickly becomes a family favorite. It’s easy to make and full of amazing flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Its standout qualities include the aromatic herbs and spicy kick that elevate simple chicken into a delicious feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can whip up this meal in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and fresh Thai basil creates an irresistible taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: With its appealing flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Essential for sautéing chicken and vegetables evenly while allowing enough space for ingredients to caramelize.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining sauces and seasonings before adding them to the pan, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

SPICY THAI BASIL CHICKEN is one of those meals that quickly becomes a family favorite. It’s easy and full of amazing flavor!

For the Sauce

• 2/3 cup chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp oyster sauce
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp fish sauce
• 2 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ginger

For the Chicken

• 2 Tbsp canola oil
• 1 lb skinless, boneless, chicken thighs (coarsely chopped)
• 1/4 cup onion (chopped)
• 4 tsp garlic (minced)
• 1-2 Tbsp Thai chilies or serrano (minced)
• 1 red pepper (diced)

For Garnish

• 1/2 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup cashews (chopped)

How to Make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, brown sugar, and ginger. Stir well until everything is mixed together.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pan over medium heat, add the canola oil. Once hot, add the coarsely chopped chicken thighs. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add in the chopped onions, minced garlic, diced red pepper, and minced chilies to the pan. Cook until the vegetables soften and their juices start to caramelize.

Step 4: Combine with Sauce

Pour in the prepared sauce mixture from Step 1. Cook on medium heat until the sauce thickens and begins to caramelize around the chicken and vegetables.

Step 5: Add Fresh Basil

Stir in the thinly sliced Thai basil leaves. Cook for about 30 seconds until the basil wilts but still retains its vibrant color.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped cashews for added crunch. Serve over rice or noodles and garnish with additional basil if desired. Enjoy your delightful Spicy Thai Basil Chicken!

How to Serve Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Steamed Jasmine Rice

• Steamed Jasmine rice complements the spicy flavors of the chicken while absorbing the delicious sauce.

On a Bed of Lettuce

• Serve the chicken on fresh lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing option, perfect for a low-carb meal.

With Stir-fried Vegetables

• Pair the dish with colorful stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and texture, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

As a Wrap

• Use rice paper or tortillas to make wraps filled with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken and fresh herbs for a fun, hand-held meal.

How to Perfect Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and Thai basil elevate the dish’s flavors significantly.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice tolerance; start with one and taste before adding more.
• Marinate the Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coconut Sticky Rice: A slightly sweet and creamy rice that complements the spiciness beautifully.
2. Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, red onions, and a tangy dressing to balance out heat.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables that offer a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Egg Fried Rice: Fluffy fried rice mixed with eggs adds an extra layer of flavor and substance to your meal.
5. Mango Salad: A vibrant salad featuring ripe mango slices mixed with lime juice and herbs, providing a sweet-tart flavor.
6. Noodle Soup: A warm broth-based noodle soup can be comforting and is excellent for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not Preparing Ingredients in Advance: Failing to chop and measure your ingredients beforehand can lead to overcooking or burning. Prep everything before you start cooking for a smoother process.
• Skipping the Marinade: Some people skip marinating the chicken in the sauce mixture. Marinating adds depth of flavor, so take the time to let it sit for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Using Low-Quality Sauces: Not all sauces are created equal. Using cheap or low-quality sauces can diminish the overall taste. Invest in good-quality oyster and soy sauces for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the Basil: Cooking basil too long can make it lose its vibrant flavor. Add basil at the end and cook just until wilted for maximum freshness.
• Ignoring Spice Levels: The heat from chilies varies. Test your chilies first and adjust according to your preference. Start with less if you’re unsure, as you can always add more later.
• Serving Without Rice: Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is often served with rice, which balances the flavors nicely. Don’t forget this essential component for a complete meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Spicy Thai Basil Chicken:

How spicy is Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

The spiciness of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken can vary based on the type of chilies used. Adjust the amount of minced chilies to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken with other proteins?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb for different flavors while maintaining the essence of this delicious dish.

What should I serve with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken pairs well with jasmine rice or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with noodles for a different twist.

How do I store leftovers of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage (up to 2 months).

Final Thoughts

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is not just flavorful but also versatile, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adjusting spice levels or substituting proteins according to your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful taste!