Thai Basil Chicken

This savory stir-fry showcases ground chicken sautéed with bold garlic and spicy chilies, all brought to life by the unique flavor of Thai basil. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also serves as a quick and satisfying option for a weeknight dinner.

The star ingredient of this dish is Thai basil. Unlike sweet basil, Thai basil has a spicy, peppery taste with hints of anise and clove. This flavor profile deeply enriches the dish, making each bite aromatic and satisfying.

 

Thai Basil Chicken

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 200g boneless chicken breast, finely chopped or ground

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 egg

• 1 tbsp garlic paste

• 2–4 Thai chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your heat preference)

• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1/2 tsp brown sugar

• 1 large handful Thai holy basil leaves (or regular Thai basil if needed)

• Salt, to taste

• Optional: steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Fry the Egg Heat a small amount of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Crack the egg into the pan and fry until the white is crispy and the yolk is still runny (or to your preference). Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic paste, chopped chilies, and sliced shallot for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Cook the Chicken Add the chopped or ground chicken to the pan. Stir-fry until the chicken is fully cooked and starting to brown, about 5–7 minutes.

4. Add the Sauce Stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to allow the sauce to coat the chicken.

5. Add the Basil Turn off the heat and stir in the Thai holy basil leaves. Let them wilt in the residual heat — don’t overcook them.

6. Serve Spoon the chicken over a bed of steamed rice. Top with the crispy fried egg. Garnish with extra chilies or basil if desired.

Tips

• Pairs well with mango coconut rice.

• Thai holy basil has a peppery, clove-like taste — essential for authenticity, but Thai sweet basil or Italian basil can substitute if necessary.

• You can double the sauce amounts if serving over rice or noodles for extra flavor.