Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Kra Pao) Recipe
Introduction
Pad Kra Pao is a classic Thai stir-fry dish bursting with bold flavors from garlic, chilies, and fragrant Thai basil. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
- 300g chicken, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 fresh red chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil, then stir-fry the minced garlic and chopped chilies until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute.
- Step 2: Add the sliced chicken to the wok and cook, stirring constantly, until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 3: Pour in the soy sauce to season the chicken evenly. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Step 4: Remove the wok from heat and fold in the Thai basil leaves, stirring until they wilt and release their aroma.
- Step 5: Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice for an authentic Thai meal.
Tips & Variations
- Use pork, beef, or tofu as a substitute for chicken to vary the protein.
- Adjust the number of chilies to control the spiciness to your preference.
- Add a splash of fish sauce along with soy sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- For a richer taste, stir in a fried egg on top before serving.
Storage
Store leftover Pad Kra Pao in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The basil is best added fresh when reheating to keep its vibrant flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?
While Thai basil has a unique spicy and anise-like flavor that’s characteristic of Pad Kra Pao, you can use regular sweet basil as a substitute. The flavor will be milder but still delicious.
Is Pad Kra Pao always spicy?
Traditionally, Pad Kra Pao is quite spicy due to fresh chilies, but you can adjust the heat by reducing or omitting the chilies to suit your taste.
PrintSpicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Kra Pao) Recipe
Pad Kra Pao is a classic Thai stir-fry dish featuring fragrant Thai basil, garlic, and chilies, sautéed with tender chicken and seasoned with savory soy sauce. This quick and flavorful meal is perfect for a spicy weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast or thigh, thinly sliced
Vegetables and Herbs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3–5 fresh red chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Mince the garlic and chop the fresh red chilies. Thinly slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Stir-Fry Garlic and Chilies: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies, stir-frying briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the wok and stir-fry until fully cooked and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Dish: Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the savory flavors.
- Add Thai Basil: Fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves and stir quickly until they are wilted and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the number of chilies according to your preferred spice level.
- Use chicken thigh for juicier, more flavorful meat, or chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Fresh Thai basil is key for authentic flavor; substitute with holy basil if desired.
- Serve with a fried egg on top for a traditional Thai touch.
- Can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Keywords: Thai basil chicken, Pad Kra Pao, Thai stir-fry, spicy chicken, Thai cuisine, quick dinner
