Thai Basil Chicken, also known as Pad Krapow Gai, is a fiery, aromatic, and deeply satisfying dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something bold and different.
This authentic Thai favorite brings together the heat of chilies, the fragrance of Thai Basil, and the umami of fish sauce-served traditionally with rice and a crispy fried egg.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken
| Ingredients | Quantity |
| Boneless Chicken Thighs | 250g (finely chopped) |
| Thai holy Basil Leaves | 1 cup (packed) |
| Garlic Cloves | 5 (minced) |
| Red Thai Chilies | 2-3 (adjust to taste) |
| soya sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Fish sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Oil (vegetable) | 2 tbsp |
| Cooked jasmine rice | For serving |
| Eggs (optional) | 2 (fried sunny side up |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣Smash and Sauté
- Pound garlic and chilies together using a mortar and pestle or mince finely.
- Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat and sauté garlic-chili mix until fragrant (30 seconds).
2️⃣Cook the Chicken
- Add chopped chicken and stir-fry until no longer pink.
- Pour in soya sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir to coat evenly.
3️⃣Add the Basil
- Toss in the Thai Basil Leaves and stir just until wilted (10-15 seconds).
- Remove from the heat immediately.
4️⃣Fry the Eggs (Optional)
- In a separate pan, fry eggs until edges are crispy and yolks are runny.
5️⃣Plate & Serve
- Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice and top with the fried eggs.
- Garnish with extra basil or chili slices for presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Thai Basil Chicken experience with mouthwatering ideas:
Classic Thai Style: Serve it piping hot ever a bed of jasmine rice, topped with a crispy fried egg (Kai Dao) for that authentic street-food feel.
Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or sauté Bok Choy for a lighter, healthier twist.
Noodle Bowl: Toss it with rice noodles or soba for a flavorful Thai-inspired noodle bowl.
Wrap It Up: Spoon the stir-fry into lettuce cups or tortilla for quick Thai fusion wraps-perfect for lunch boxes or party platters.
With Sides: Pair with Thai cucumber salad, spicy papaya salad (Som Tom), or veggie spring rolls for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
Protein swaps: Use minced pork, tofu, or shrimp for a twist.
No Thai Basil? Substitute with Italian basil (but flavor with differ slightly).
Extra spicy? Add bird’s eye chilies or a pinch of chili flakes.
Low sodium: Use reduced-sodium sauces and skip the extra salt.
FAQs for Thai Basil Chicken
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, though thighs are juicer, Breast works fine for a leaner option.
Q: Can this be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use Tofu, skip fish sauce, and replace with soya sauce and mushroom sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in a fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a wok or microwave.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving something bold, spicy, or just downright comforting, this 2025 Thai Basil Chicken recipe delivers every time. With its sizzling flavors, quick prep, and versatile serving options, it’s no wonder this dish has become a weeknight favorite. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to meal when you want something irresistibly delicious in under 30 minutes. Don’t forget to snap a pic, share your creation, and tag us – we’d love to see how your plate turned out!