Description
Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) is a popular dish in Thailand, commonly enjoyed as a quick and satisfying meal. It’s typically made with ground chicken stir-fried with garlic, bird’s eye chilies, and holy basil leaves, finished off with a salty, slightly sweet sauce. What makes it stand out is its spicy kick and herbaceous flavor that comes from the aromatic Thai basil. The dish is often served with steamed jasmine rice and topped with a fried egg, adding a richness that perfectly complements the heat and freshness of the stir-fry.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb ground chicken (or finely chopped chicken thighs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional, for depth)
- ½ tsp sugar
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 cup Thai holy basil leaves (or substitute with Thai basil)
For Serving:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Fried egg (sunny-side up with crispy edges)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep Aromatics:
- Mince garlic and slice chilies. If you like it extra spicy, leave the seeds in.
2. Sauté Base:
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add garlic, chilies, and shallots. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook Chicken:
- Add ground chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through.
- Break up any clumps for even texture.
4. Add Sauce:
- Stir in oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and broth.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes until sauce slightly reduces and coats the chicken.
5. Finish with Basil:
- Turn off heat and immediately stir in basil leaves.
- Toss until wilted and glossy.
6. Serve:
- Spoon over hot jasmine rice.
- Top with a crispy fried egg and a squeeze of lime.
Notes
Serve hot with jasmine rice and top with a crispy fried egg for the most authentic Thai street food experience. Don’t forget a splash of fish sauce with sliced chilies on the side!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fried
- Cuisine: Thai