If you’re craving something vibrant, fresh, and downright addictive, this Easy Thai Basil Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Win Recipe is exactly what your dinner rotation needs. Packed with fragrant Thai basil, tender chicken, and a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and sweet notes, it’s a dish that’s as simple to throw together as it is impressive to eat. Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or just want a quick meal bursting with authentic flavor, this recipe hits all the right spots for a satisfying and delicious meal any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and success of this dish. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender chicken bringing hearty protein to the sharp, aromatic Thai basil adding incomparable depth, while the bright bell peppers contribute crunch and color that make your plate sing.
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces, these provide juicy, tender meat that soaks up all the fantastic sauces.
- 4 cloves Garlic: Minced to infuse the dish with that classic aromatic base essential in Thai cooking.
- 1-2 Red Chili: Sliced and adjustable based on your spice preference, these bring a lively kick without overpowering.
- 1 cup Thai Basil Leaves: Preferably Thai holy basil, this herb is the star that delivers the unique sweet and peppery fragrance.
- 1 Red Bell Pepper: Sliced to add sweetness, color, and a satisfying crunch.
- 1 Yellow Bell Pepper: Also sliced, providing an appealing contrast and fresh texture.
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce is recommended for seasoning with a balanced salty umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce: The secret to authentic Thai flavor with a sharp, salty punch.
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar: Balances the savory with a gentle hint of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable or Canola Oil: For stir-frying the ingredients to perfection without burning.
- 4 cups Cooked Jasmine Rice: The perfect fluffy bed to soak up all those delicious juices.
How to Make Easy Thai Basil Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Win Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Mince the garlic finely and slice the red chili and bell peppers into thin strips. Pluck the Thai basil leaves off their stems and set everything close at hand—once you start cooking, this dish comes together quickly.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely—this mixture is your flavor powerhouse, balancing salty, sweet, and savory in perfect harmony.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it’s just browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. This step locks in that juicy texture that will carry the bold flavors of the sauce.
Step 4: Add Aromatics and Peppers
Push the chicken to one side, add the garlic and sliced chili, and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in the red and yellow bell peppers, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant and crisp.
Step 5: Combine and Finish with Basil
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring constantly to coat everything evenly. When the sauce is heated through, add the Thai basil leaves and allow them to wilt slightly—this releases their wonderful aroma and authentic Thai essence.
Step 6: Serve Over Jasmine Rice
Serve your Easy Thai Basil Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Win Recipe immediately over a bed of jasmine rice so every bite is soaked in those delicious sauces and fresh flavors.
How to Serve Easy Thai Basil Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Win Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish, sprinkle sliced green onions or chopped fresh cilantro over the top. A few extra fresh Thai basil leaves can also add visual appeal and a burst of herbal flavor just before serving.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with steamed or stir-fried veggies such as bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli. A light cucumber salad with a hint of lime and chili pairs beautifully, refreshing the palate alongside the rich chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the basil chicken in lettuce cups for handheld bites or pile it over coconut rice for a creamy and fragrant variation. You can even add a fried egg on top to make it a truly indulgent meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making reheated portions just as tasty, if not better!
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the sauce’s moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the crispness of the peppers and the fresh flavor of the basil.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both chicken breast and thighs work well, though thighs offer more juiciness and flavor. If you prefer breast, just be careful not to overcook it to keep it tender.
What can I do if I can’t find Thai basil?
If Thai basil is unavailable, sweet basil is a decent substitute, though the flavor is less peppery and more mild. Adding a little extra fresh cilantro can help brighten the dish.
How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness depends on how many red chilies you add. Start with one if you’re sensitive, and increase to two if you like it hotter. You can also remove the seeds to reduce the heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, by replacing chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms, and substituting oyster and fish sauces with vegetarian versions or more soy sauce, you’ll still get delicious umami flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds up well for meal prep, staying flavorful and fresh-tasting throughout the week when stored properly and reheated gently.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Thai Basil Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Win Recipe is truly a gem to have in your cooking arsenal. It brings together bright colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. Next time you want a quick and delicious meal that’s full of personality, give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Easy Thai Basil Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Win Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
This Easy Thai Basil Chicken recipe is a flavorful and quick weeknight dinner that combines tender diced chicken thighs or breasts with aromatic Thai holy basil, garlic, and colorful bell peppers. Cooked with a savory blend of soy, oyster, and fish sauces, and served over jasmine rice, it brings authentic Thai taste to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables and Herbs
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1–2 units Red Chili, sliced (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 cup Thai Basil Leaves (preferably Thai holy basil)
- 1 unit Red Bell Pepper, sliced
- 1 unit Yellow Bell Pepper, sliced
Sauces and Oils
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable or Canola Oil
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (light soy is recommended)
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
Serving
- 4 cups Cooked Jasmine Rice
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, slice the red chili, and slice both the red and yellow bell peppers. Rinse and pick the Thai basil leaves from the stems.
- Heat Oil and Cook Garlic and Chili: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced red chili, stir-frying them for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Add Chicken and Brown: Add the diced chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the pieces are mostly cooked through and slightly browned on the outside.
- Add Bell Peppers and Sauces: Toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Stir in 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Continue stir-frying for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook fully and the peppers to soften slightly.
- Add Thai Basil and Finish Cooking: Finally, add 1 cup of Thai basil leaves. Stir everything together for another 1-2 minutes until the basil has wilted and infused its aroma into the dish. Remove from heat immediately.
- Serve: Spoon the hot Thai basil chicken over cooked jasmine rice. Serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat by modifying the amount of red chili or removing seeds for less spice.
- Chicken thighs add more flavor and tenderness, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- Try substituting Thai holy basil with regular sweet basil if unavailable, though the flavor will slightly differ.
- Use light soy sauce to keep the dish less salty and more balanced.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.
