Name: Thai Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 Thai chilies, sliced (adjust to taste); 2 shallots, finely chopped; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp fish sauce; 1 tsp dark soy sauce; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or canola); 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

Thai Basil Chicken is one of those dishes that hits every note just right: spicy, savory, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. It comes together in a flash and brings restaurant-level flavor to your kitchen without the takeout price tag. Whether you’re craving comfort or need a last-minute weeknight dinner, this dish delivers.

What makes Thai Basil Chicken so irresistible is its balance of bold flavors. The garlic and chilies hit you first, then the umami-packed sauce rounds things out with a hint of sweetness. Thai basil brings a unique peppery brightness that transforms this dish from good to unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Chicken

This recipe is a powerhouse of flavor with minimal effort. It requires just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have. You don’t need a wok or special tools – just a hot skillet and about 20 minutes.

It’s also endlessly adaptable. Prefer it spicy? Add more chilies. Watching carbs? Swap the rice for cauliflower rice. Want it vegetarian? Use tofu instead of chicken. No matter how you tweak it, the heart of this dish stays bold and authentic.

What Kind of Basil Should I Use?

For true Thai Basil Chicken, you want to use Thai basil – not sweet basil like you’d find in Italian dishes. Thai basil has a slight anise flavor and a sturdier leaf that stands up well to stir-frying. If you can’t find Thai basil, substitute with holy basil or, in a pinch, regular basil. Just know the flavor profile will change slightly. Thai basil is well worth seeking out for the most authentic experience.

Ingredients for the Thai Basil Chicken

To make Thai Basil Chicken, you’ll need a few core ingredients that deliver its signature heat, richness, and vibrant aroma. While substitutions are possible, sticking close to these gives you that punchy, street-food flavor.

Ground chicken
Garlic
Fresh Thai chilies
Shallots
Oyster sauce
Soy sauce
Fish sauce
Dark soy sauce
Sugar
Neutral oil
Thai basil leaves

How To Make the Thai Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Aromatics

Peel and finely chop the garlic and shallots. Slice the Thai chilies thinly. Set aside so everything is ready to go once the pan heats up.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. This mixture is the deep umami heart of the dish.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped garlic, shallots, and chilies. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the ground chicken and break it apart as it cooks until no longer pink.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour in the prepared sauce and stir to coat the chicken. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly and soak into the meat.

Step 5: Finish with Thai Basil

Once the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully cooked, remove the pan from heat and toss in the Thai basil leaves. Stir until they wilt from the residual heat. Serve immediately over hot jasmine rice or your preferred base.

How to Serve and Store Thai Basil Chicken

Thai Basil Chicken is best enjoyed fresh from the pan, served steaming hot over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice. It feeds about 4 people generously, making it perfect for a weeknight family meal or dinner with friends.

If you end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the saucy texture. You can also microwave it, though a skillet helps keep the flavors sharp and fresh.

What to Serve With Thai Basil Chicken?

Jasmine Rice

This classic pairing is a must. The soft, fragrant grains soak up all the sauce and heat beautifully.

Coconut Rice

For a subtly sweet contrast, coconut rice can elevate the meal with richness and depth.

Fried Egg

Top your Thai Basil Chicken with a crispy-edged fried egg for a touch of indulgence and extra protein.

Pickled Vegetables

Crunchy and tangy, quick-pickled cucumbers or carrots help balance the spice.

Stir-Fried Greens

Try Chinese broccoli, bok choy, or spinach lightly sautéed with garlic.

Spring Rolls

A crispy side dish that adds texture and makes the meal feel special.

Cucumber Salad

Cool, refreshing, and lightly dressed, cucumber salad cuts through the bold flavors.

Thai Iced Tea

Finish your meal with a sweet, milky Thai iced tea to mellow out the spice and bring it full circle.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love the bold flavors in this Thai Basil Chicken, you’ll definitely enjoy exploring these other comforting and flavorful meals:

Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes and Mushrooms for a cozy one-skillet dinner.
Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl for a high-protein twist.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken for a crispy, golden meal everyone loves.
White Chicken Enchilada Casserole if you crave creamy Tex-Mex comfort.
Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for something nourishing and light.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the chilies or keep it mild? Did you try swapping the protein?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook with more confidence.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite meal!

Conclusion

Thai Basil Chicken is quick, punchy, and packs layers of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or already obsessed, this dish brings authentic flair with easy-to-follow steps. It’s a go-to recipe that delivers every time, perfect for busy nights or a casual dinner that still feels special.