This Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal! With juicy chicken, fresh basil, and colorful veggies, it’s both healthy and delicious.
I love how fast it comes together—perfect for those busy weeknights! Plus, the aroma of basil always makes my kitchen feel like a fancy restaurant. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegetable Oil: This is essential for cooking at high heat. If you prefer, you can use peanut oil for extra flavor, or canola oil for a neutral taste.
Chicken Thighs: I find thighs to be juicier than chicken breasts, but you can use breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember they cook faster, so adjust your cooking time!
Thai Bird’s Eye Chilies: These add a nice kick! If they’re too spicy for you, feel free to leave them out or substitute with red pepper flakes. You can also skip the heat altogether if you like it mild.
Fresh Thai Basil: It provides that unique flavor. If you can’t find it, any sweet basil will work. I even like using a little mint for a twist!
Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other veggies like broccoli, snow peas, or even carrots. They will all work great and add some nice colors!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky. Here’s how to achieve tender, juicy pieces:
- Start with a hot pan! Ensure your skillet or wok is heated enough before adding oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re making a large batch, cook the chicken in two batches to avoid steaming.
- Cook until no longer pink in the center. This usually takes 5–7 minutes for thigh pieces.
- Let the chicken sit for a couple of minutes after cooking before serving. This helps retain its juices.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken turns out deliciously every time!
Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies (optional, adjust to taste), thinly sliced
- 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (or sweet basil if unavailable)
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delightful and aromatic dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for a perfect stir-fry!
2. Aromatics Time:
Add the thinly sliced garlic and chilies to the hot oil. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds or until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Next, toss in the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is all browned and cooked through. This should take about 5–7 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
4. Add the Veggies:
Now, it’s time for the red bell pepper and green beans! Toss them into the skillet and stir-fry everything together for another 2–3 minutes. You want the veggies to be vibrant and still a bit crunchy.
5. Season the Dish:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. This sweet and savory mixture is the star of your stir-fry! Pour this sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
6. Final Touch with Basil:
Take the pan off the heat for a moment and gently stir in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will make them wilt perfectly, releasing all their lovely aroma.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Thai basil chicken stir fry is ready! Serve it hot over cooked jasmine rice, and if you like, add a few extra basil leaves on top for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your meal!
Happy cooking! You’ll love how easy and delicious this dish is!
FAQ for Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as shrimp cooks quickly and tofu may need longer to get crispy.
What If I Don’t Have Thai Basil?
If you can’t find fresh Thai basil, sweet basil will work in a pinch. Alternatively, you can use a mix of basil and mint for a unique flavor. Just remember, the taste won’t be exactly the same, but still delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply stir-fry the chicken and veggies, then add the sauce and basil for a quick meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
