Thai Basil Chicken

Thai Basil Chicken, also known as Pad Krapow Gai, is a classic Thai street food dish made with minced chicken stir-fried in a garlicky, chili-laced sauce and finished with the fragrant aroma of Thai basil. It’s typically served over jasmine rice and topped with a crispy fried egg.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – ready in under 20 minutes
• Bursting with bold Thai flavors
• Customizable heat level to suit your taste
• Uses everyday ingredients with a fresh, herbaceous twist
• Perfect for weeknight meals or flavorful lunches

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground chicken (or chopped chicken thighs)
• Thai bird’s eye chilies or red chili flakes
• Garlic, minced
• Soy sauce
• Fish sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Sugar
• Thai basil leaves
• Cooking oil
• Optional: fried egg, jasmine rice

directions

this recipe

1. Heat oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chilies; stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ground chicken and cook, breaking up the meat until browned.
4. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Mix well to coat the chicken.
5. Turn off the heat and fold in Thai basil leaves until wilted.
6. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice, topped with a fried egg if desired.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use pork, beef, or tofu instead of chicken
• Add bell peppers or green beans for extra veggies
• Serve over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• Swap Thai basil for regular basil if needed
• Use tamari for a gluten-free version

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through
• Add fresh basil when reheating for best flavor
• Not recommended for freezing due to basil’s delicate texture

FAQs

What type of basil should I use?

Thai holy basil is traditional, but Thai sweet basil or even Italian basil can work in a pinch.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, reduce the number of chilies or use a mild chili substitute like red bell pepper.

Can I use pre-ground chicken?

Yes, it works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.

What can I serve this with?

Jasmine rice is classic, but it also works with noodles or in lettuce wraps.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Use crumbled tofu or plant-based meat and substitute soy-based sauces.

What does Pad Krapow mean?

It means “holy basil stir-fry” in Thai—Pad = stir-fry, Krapow = holy basil.

Do I have to use oyster sauce?

No, but it adds a nice depth. You can use soy sauce or hoisin as an alternative.

Is this dish authentic?

Yes, it’s one of the most popular dishes in Thai street food culture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

What’s the best oil for stir-frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Conclusion

Thai Basil Chicken is a fast, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Thai cooking—bold, fresh, and satisfying. With its signature kick of chili and fragrant basil, it’s an easy way to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your table in minutes. Serve it hot over rice with a fried egg for the ultimate comfort meal.

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