How to Make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comes together in minutes, then you’re in for a treat with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai). This beloved Thai street food classic combines fragrant holy basil, fiery chilies, and savory meat in a whirlwind of taste that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends with a quick Asian-inspired meal, this recipe is your go-to for authentic, mouthwatering Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days or last-minute dinners.
• Bold Flavor Explosion: Combines peppery basil, bright garlic, and spicy chilies for an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile: Easily adapted with different proteins or veggies to suit personal preferences.
• Authentic Experience: Traditional Thai ingredients and cooking techniques bring street food vibes to your kitchen.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup because everything cooks together in a single skillet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients that pack a punch. Each component plays a distinct role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish a standout.

• Ground chicken: The star protein that absorbs flavors beautifully and cooks quickly.
• Fresh holy basil leaves: Adds a unique, peppery aroma essential for authentic taste.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with a robust, savory base flavor.
• Thai bird’s eye chilies: Bring the signature spicy kick without overpowering the balance.
• Soy sauce: Provides salty depth and umami integration.
• Oyster sauce: Adds a slightly sweet and rich flavor layer.
• Fish sauce: Sharpens the taste with earthy, savory notes.
• White sugar: Balances heat and saltiness for harmony.
• Cooking oil: Enables proper stir-frying and helps develop caramelization.
• Cooked jasmine rice: The perfect neutral bed for soaking up the spicy sauce.

Variations for Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Feel free to customize this dish to suit your taste or dietary requirements! It’s wonderfully adaptable, letting you mix in favorite ingredients or try new twists without sacrificing that beloved flavor profile.

• Protein swap: Use ground pork, turkey, or tofu for different textures and dietary preferences.
• Vegetable boost: Add chopped bell peppers, snap peas, or green beans for added crunch and nutrition.
• Heat adjustment: Modify the number of chilies or substitute with milder peppers to control spiciness.
• Vegan version: Replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari and use tofu to keep it plant-based.
• Extra umami: Add a splash of mushroom sauce or a few drops of sesame oil for deeper flavor layers.

How to Make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by finely mincing the garlic and slicing the Thai bird’s eye chilies. Rinse the holy basil leaves and pat them dry to keep their vibrant color and aroma.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chilies, stirring constantly until fragrant and golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Step 3: Add the Ground Chicken

Toss in the ground chicken and break it up with your spatula. Stir-fry until the meat is cooked through and no longer pink, around 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 4: Season the Dish

Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix thoroughly so the chicken absorbs all those deep, savory flavors.

Step 5: Stir in the Basil

Turn off the heat and fold in the holy basil leaves, letting the residual warmth wilt them perfectly without sacrificing texture or brightness.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Plate the aromatic Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) over freshly steamed jasmine rice and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

• Use fresh holy basil: This herb’s unique spicy aroma is key—avoid substituting with regular basil if possible.
• Control the heat: Adjust bird’s eye chilies or remove seeds to customize spiciness to your liking.
• Cook on high heat: A hot pan ensures a satisfying sear and quick cooking for tender, flavorful chicken.
• Don’t skip sugar: It balances the salty and spicy elements, rounding out the overall flavor.
• Serve immediately: Freshness matters—basil wilts fast, so eat the dish soon after cooking.

How to Serve Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Garnishes

Top with a fried egg (preferably sunny side up) for richness that cuts the heat. Add fresh cucumber slices or thinly sliced red chilies for visual appeal and refreshing contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair with clear soups like Thai tom yum or a simple vegetable stir-fry to balance the meal. A crunchy papaya salad also adds a sweet and tangy element that complements the spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb option or spoon into warm pita bread for a fusion twist. For a fun twist, try it over noodles or cauliflower rice depending on your mood.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken mixture in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying the chicken, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Absolutely! Ground pork, turkey, or even finely chopped beef all work well for this recipe and provide subtle variations in flavor.

Is holy basil essential for this dish?

Holy basil gives an authentic aroma and flavor, but if you can’t find it, Thai basil is a decent substitute, although the taste will slightly differ.

How spicy is Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)?

The traditional version is quite spicy thanks to bird’s eye chilies, but you can reduce or increase the amount based on your heat tolerance.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Yes. Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce to keep it fully plant-based without losing its essence.

What’s the best type of rice to serve with this dish?

Jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture, which perfectly absorbs the sauce from the chicken.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) is a delightful adventure in bold flavors made simple enough for any home cook. Its vibrant combination of spice, savory depth, and aromatic herbs turns quick meals into unforgettable experiences. Give this recipe a try, and soon you’ll find it becoming a cherished staple in your kitchen rotation!

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