Introduction to Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai
Let’s be honest: life can get pretty hectic, especially for busy moms and professionals like you and me. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up a delicious meal can feel like a daunting task. That’s why I’m excited to share my Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai recipe! This delightful dish isn’t just a quick solution for a busy day; it’s packed with flavor that’s sure to impress your loved ones. With fresh basil and savory stir-fry sauce, it’s a meal that will make you feel like a culinary superstar, even on the most chaotic evenings.
Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai
This Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai is a game changer. It’s not only quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, but it’s also deliciously satisfying. Picture colorful veggies mingling with tender chicken and fresh basil; every bite bursts with flavor. Plus, it’s adaptable! Whether you want to spice it up or keep it mild, this dish can easily fit any family’s taste. You’ll find it’s both a crowd-pleaser and a reliable weeknight staple.
Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a fantastic Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Brown onion or shallots: These add a sweet, aromatic base to your stir fry.
- Ground chicken: Tender and quick-cooking, ground chicken is the star of this dish.
- Garlic: Bringing a punch of flavor, garlic elevates the whole experience.
- Red chili and green mild chili pepper: For a splash of heat and color; adjust as you like.
- Avocado oil: A heart-healthy fat perfect for high-heat cooking.
- Thai basil leaves: They bring that exceptional herby essence characteristic of Thai cuisine; you can use regular basil in a pinch.
- Light and dark soy sauce: These provide umami richness; gluten-free options are available if needed.
- Maple syrup or liquid honey: A touch of sweetness balances the savory flavors beautifully.
- Garlic chili sauce or sriracha: For those who crave some extra spice—use as much or as little as you’d like!
- Oyster sauce: Adds depth and savory goodness; it’s an essential part of the stir fry.
- Fish sauce: This provides a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate; a little goes a long way!
- Jasmine rice: Light and fluffy, it’s the perfect bed for your chicken; brown rice offers a wholesome alternative.
- Fried eggs: These add a delightful richness on top, making each bite even tastier.
- Green onion: Adds a fresh crunch and color; feel free to sprinkle on more as a garnish.
- Additional Thai basil leaves and sesame seeds: Great for garnishing and enhancing presentation.
- Prawn crackers: Perfect for a crunch on the side, adding fun and texture to your meal.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where they’re listed for easy printing!
How to Make Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Grab a cutting board and finely chop the garlic and both chilies. If you love spice, feel free to add more red chili. Dice your brown onion or shallots into small pieces, which will add sweetness to the dish. Fresh basil should be rinsed and dried, ready to shine in your Pad Gai. I always enjoy the aromatic scent wafting through my kitchen as I prep these ingredients; it adds to the excitement of cooking!
Cooking the Aromatics
Next, heat up some avocado oil in a nonstick wok or sauté pan over medium-high heat. I like to use a nonstick pan to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier. Toss in your diced onions or shallots, and sauté them until they become fragrant—about two minutes. Listen for that delightful sizzle! After this, add the chopped garlic and green chili, cooking for an additional 30 seconds. This is where the magic begins, as the garlic mingles with onions, creating a savory aroma that’ll tempt everyone nearby.
Incorporating the Chicken
Now it’s time for the star of the show: ground chicken! Add it to the pan, breaking it up as it cooks. The key here is to stir frequently, ensuring the chicken turns a beautiful golden hue without drying out. We want juicy chicken that’s fully cooked but still maintains moisture. It takes just a few minutes for the chicken to lose its pinkness. Keep an eye on it, as you don’t want to overcook!
Adding the Sauces and Basil
Once the chicken is ready, it’s time for flavor town! Add the chopped red chili, Thai basil leaves, light and dark soy sauces, and maple syrup or honey. For an extra zing, add a dollop of garlic chili sauce or sriracha. Stir everything together, letting the basil wilt while retaining its vibrant color. If the mixture seems a bit dry, splash in a tiny bit of water for added sauciness. Trust me, this step is crucial for that delicious harmony of flavors!
Serving with Rice and Garnishes
Finally, it’s time to serve! Begin by steaming your jasmine rice; it should be light and fluffy. Scoop the fragrant chicken basil stir fry onto a bed of rice, creating a lovely presentation. Top each serving with a fried egg, allowing the yolk to bring richness to the dish. Garnish with finely sliced green onions, extra basil leaves, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that crunchy finish. And if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some prawn crackers on the side for a delightful crunch!
Tips for Success
- Prep all your ingredients before starting; it makes cooking smoother and faster.
- Use fresh Thai basil for the best flavor; if unavailable, regular basil works too.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili to suit your taste.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Equipment Needed
- Nonstick wok or sauté pan: If you don’t have one, any large skillet will do.
- Cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables; a sturdy surface makes prep easier.
- Knife: A sharp knife is key for easy chopping.
- measuring cups and spoons: Handy for precise amounts, but eyeballing works in a pinch.
Variations
- Protein Swaps: Substitute ground chicken with turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess or fresh lime juice for a zesty twist.
- Veggie Heaven: Toss in colorful bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrients and crunch.
- Sweet and Spicy: Mix in some pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice to cut down on carbs.
Serving Suggestions for Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai
- Pair with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Serve alongside Thai spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of Thai iced tea for that perfect balance.
- For presentation, use colorful plates to highlight the vibrant dish.
FAQs about Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai
Can I make Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai in advance?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just keep the rice separate to maintain its fluffy texture.
What can I use instead of fish sauce?
If you’re not a fan of fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. It won’t have the same unique flavor, but it will still be tasty!
Is Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! Make a larger batch, portion it out, and you’ll have quick lunches ready for the week ahead.
Can I adjust the spice level?
<pDefinitely! Feel free to add more or fewer chilies based on your family’s preferences. For a milder dish, start with just a little and taste as you go.
What do I serve with Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai?
This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, but you can also serve it with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai isn’t just about whipping up a meal; it’s creating a joyful experience. The tantalizing scents mix with the vibrant colors, making your kitchen feel alive and welcoming. It’s a recipe that celebrates the beauty of fresh ingredients and the thrill of bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it to your family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish captures the heart of homecooked comfort. Plus, with every bite, you’ll remind yourself that cooking can be both easy and exhilarating—a delightful accomplishment in your culinary journey!
Print
Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Thai Basil Chicken Pad Gai featuring ground chicken, fresh basil, and a savory stir fry sauce.
Ingredients
- 120 g brown onion or shallots, diced
- 225 g ground chicken
- 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 medium red chili, roughly chopped
- 1 medium green mild chili pepper, chopped
- 15 ml avocado oil
- 20 g Thai basil leaves (or regular basil)
- 15 ml light soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
- 15 ml dark soy sauce (low sodium, gluten-free if needed)
- 15 ml maple syrup or 10 ml liquid honey
- 5 ml garlic chili sauce or sriracha
- 15 ml oyster sauce
- 15 ml fish sauce
- 185 g uncooked jasmine rice
- 2 fried eggs
- 2–3 stalks green onion, finely sliced
- Additional Thai basil leaves
- Sesame seeds
- Prawn crackers
Instructions
- Finely chop garlic and both the green and red chilies. Dice the onions or shallots and set aside.
- Heat avocado oil in a nonstick wok or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add diced onions or shallots and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in the chopped garlic and green chili, cooking for 30 seconds.
- Add ground chicken to the pan and cook, breaking up the meat until it loses its pink color and is just cooked through, maintaining moisture.
- Add red chili, Thai basil, light and dark soy sauces, maple syrup or honey, garlic chili sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce to the pan. Stir thoroughly to combine, allowing the basil to wilt while retaining its color. Add a small splash of water if needed for sauciness.
- Serve the chicken basil stir fry over freshly steamed jasmine rice. Top with a fried egg and garnish with sliced green onion, extra basil leaves, and sesame seeds. Add prawn crackers on the side as desired.
Notes
- Adjust the level of chili to control the spice.
- Using fresh Thai basil provides the best flavor.
- For a healthier option, use brown rice instead of jasmine rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
