🍗 Best Thai Basil Chicken Recipe (Pad Krapow – Easy, Spicy & Authentic)
Make the best Thai basil chicken recipe (pad krapow) at home in just 20 minutes! This easy, spicy stir-fry is packed with bold flavors and perfect with rice.
🧾 Introduction
This Thai basil chicken recipe, also known as pad krapow gai, is one of Thailand’s most popular street foods. It’s a quick stir-fry made with chicken, garlic, chili, and fragrant basil in a savory sauce.
Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is spicy, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want takeout-style food at home.
🧂 Ingredients
🍗 Main
- 400g ground chicken (or finely chopped chicken)
- 2 tbsp oil
🌶️ Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2–3 Thai chilies (chopped, adjust to taste)
🥣 Sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
🌿 Key Ingredient
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
🍳 Optional Topping
- Fried egg (very popular in Thailand)
👨🍳 How to Make Thai Basil Chicken
🔥 Step 1: Cook Aromatics
Heat oil in a pan. Add garlic and chilies. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
🍗 Step 2: Cook Chicken
Add ground chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked.
🥣 Step 3: Add Sauce
Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir well to coat.
🌿 Step 4: Add Basil
Add Thai basil leaves and stir until wilted (about 1 minute).
🍳 Step 5: Serve
Serve hot over rice, topped with a fried egg if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- 🍚 Steamed jasmine rice
- 🍳 Crispy fried egg
- 🥒 Fresh cucumber slices
- 🌶️ Chili sauce or flakes
💡 Pro Tips
- Use Thai basil for authentic flavor (not Italian basil)
- Adjust chili level to your spice tolerance
- Cook on high heat for best stir-fry texture
- Don’t overcook basil → keeps aroma fresh
- Use ground chicken for quick cooking
🌶️ Variations
🐄 Beef Pad Krapow
Use ground beef instead of chicken.
🍤 Shrimp Basil Stir-Fry
Swap chicken for shrimp.
🌱 Vegetarian Version
Use tofu or mushrooms.
🍳 Pad Krapow with Egg
Top with crispy fried egg (highly recommended).
❓ FAQS
What is Thai basil chicken made of?
It is made with chicken, garlic, chili, basil, and savory sauces.
Is Thai basil chicken spicy?
Yes, but spice level can be adjusted.
Can I use regular basil?
Yes, but Thai basil gives the most authentic flavor.
What is pad krapow?
Pad krapow is a Thai stir-fry dish with basil, meat, and chili.
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280–350 kcal |
| Protein | 25–30 g |
| Carbs | 5–10 g |
| Fat | 15–20 g |
| Sodium | 600–800 mg |
🔗 Similar Recipes
- Asian recipes
- Chicken recipes
- Quick dinner recipes
- Stir-fry recipes
💭 Final Thoughts
This Thai basil chicken recipe (pad krapow) is proof that bold, restaurant-quality flavor doesn’t require complicated steps. With just a handful of ingredients and a hot pan, you get a dish that’s spicy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying in under 20 minutes.

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