Title: Authentic Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) – Quick & Spicy Stir-Fry
Make delicious Thai basil chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) in just 20 minutes! This spicy, savory stir-fry is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. Better than takeout!
Authentic Thai Basil Chicken Recipe (Pad Krapow Gai)
If you're craving something spicy, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying, this Thai Basil Chicken—also known as Pad Krapow Gai—is your go-to dish. It's one of Thailand's most popular street foods, and now you can recreate it at home in under 30 minutes!
What is Pad Krapow Gai?
Pad Krapow Gai is a spicy Thai stir-fry made with ground chicken, garlic, chilies, soy sauce, and fresh Thai holy basil. It’s traditionally served over jasmine rice and often topped with a crispy fried egg.
Ingredients (Serves 2):
- 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or avocado oil)
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2–3 Thai chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 300g ground chicken (or finely chopped chicken breast)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegan oyster sauce)
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
- 1 tsp sugar (brown or palm sugar preferred)
- 1 tbsp water (to loosen sauce if needed)
- 1 cup Thai holy basil leaves (or regular basil if unavailable)
- Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
- Fried egg (optional but traditional)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté garlic and chilies for 20–30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn them).
- Add ground chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add sauces and sugar: Soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), and sugar. Stir to coat.
- Toss in basil leaves, stir until wilted (about 30 seconds).
- Serve hot over rice and top with a fried egg if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use Thai holy basil for authentic flavor (available at Asian grocery stores).
- If it’s too spicy, reduce the chilies or remove seeds.
- Works great with ground turkey, pork, or tofu as alternatives.
- Add bell peppers or green beans for extra veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
- Quick: Ready in under 25 minutes
- Bold flavor: Savory, spicy, garlicky, and aromatic
- Healthy: Lean protein + fresh herbs
- Better than takeout!
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat and vegan oyster sauce.
Q: What if I can’t find Thai basil?
A: Sweet basil or even Italian basil can work, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same.
Q: Can I prep it in advance?
A: You can cook the chicken mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add fresh basil right before serving.
Final Thoughts:
This Thai basil chicken recipe brings bold, street-food flavor straight to your kitchen. Quick to make and full of authentic Thai spice, it’s a weeknight winner you’ll cook again and again.
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