Easy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow) is a flavorful and spicy stir-fried dish made with chicken, Thai basil, and a savory sauce. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight meal.
Author:Mollyyeh
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Stir-fry
Cuisine:Thai
Diet:Low Calorie
Ingredients
UnitsScale
1lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, finely chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, chopped (adjust to spice preference)
1 medium onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4cup chicken broth
1cup fresh Thai basil leaves
1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for garnish)
Steamed rice (for serving)
Instructions
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add garlic and chilies, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add chopped chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned.
Add sliced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes until vegetables soften.
Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Mix well to coat the chicken and vegetables.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the Thai basil leaves. Mix until the basil wilts and the chicken is coated in the sauce.
Serve the dish hot with steamed rice, and optionally drizzle with lime juice for extra flavor.
Notes
For a spicier dish, add more bird’s eye chilies or use chili paste.
You can substitute chicken with ground turkey or pork for different variations.
Thai basil can be found in most Asian grocery stores; it has a distinct peppery flavor that is essential for this dish.
Serve with a fried egg on top for an authentic touch.