Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Name: Spicy Thai Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, sliced thinly; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2-3 Thai bird chilies, sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 2 cups fresh basil leaves; 1 teaspoon sugar

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love making Spicy Thai Basil Chicken for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. This dish is inspired by my travels in Thailand, where the aroma of fresh basil and spicy chilies filled the air. Every time I cook it, I’m reminded of the vibrant street food culture. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant basil, and a kick of heat creates a beautiful harmony of flavors. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy evenings when I crave something delicious yet easy to prepare.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-24T17:46:18.564Z

When I first tasted Spicy Thai Basil Chicken at a small eatery in Bangkok, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The balance of heat from the chilies and the aromatic basil made each bite extraordinary. The method I use combines quick stir-frying to lock in the chicken's juiciness while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Using fresh basil is essential—it makes all the difference in taste.

One particularly helpful tip I’ve learned is to prepare all the ingredients beforehand. As the cooking process is fast, having everything ready allows you to focus on the timing and ensures that the chicken remains tender while the basil retains its vibrant flavor. You won’t regret giving this dish a try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bold flavors that transport you to Thailand with every bite
Quick and easy to make without sacrificing taste
Delicious served over steamed jasmine rice or noodles

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the bold flavors in Spicy Thai Basil Chicken lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh Thai bird chilies deliver not only heat but also a unique flavor profile that distinguishes this dish. Depending on your spice tolerance, you can adjust the number of chilies used; I recommend starting with two for a mild kick and increasing as desired. The soy sauce, fish sauce, and oyster sauce together create a depth of umami that enhances the chicken, making every bite irresistible.

Using fresh basil is non-negotiable in this recipe. Thai basil has a slightly spicy, anise-like flavor that regular basil cannot replicate. If you can't find Thai basil, you can substitute with regular basil mixed with a pinch of crushed red pepper to mimic its unique flavor. Always tear the basil leaves by hand; this method releases more oils and aromas than cutting them with a knife, which can bruise the leaves.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that requires high heat and fast movements to achieve the best results. When cooking the chicken, ensure your pan is hot enough (medium-high heat) before adding the meat. This prevents the chicken from steaming and helps to seal in the juices, giving it a nice golden color. If your chicken sticks to the pan, it might not be hot enough, so give it another minute before trying to flip it.

After adding the basil, avoid overcooking it. Stir only until the leaves are just wilted, approximately 1-2 minutes. Overcooked basil can turn bitter, losing its vibrant color and fresh aroma that are essential to this dish. Always add it last to preserve its flavor profile and nutritional benefits, ensuring that the final dish is not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a flavorful meal.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, sliced thinly
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 Thai bird chilies, sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
2 cups fresh basil leaves
1 teaspoon sugar

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the sliced chicken with soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and chilies, stirring until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

Stir-Fry the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Add the Basil

Once the chicken is cooked, add the fresh basil leaves and stir until they’re wilted, for 1-2 minutes.

Serve

Serve the Spicy Thai Basil Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Enjoy your flavorful homemade dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding more chilies or a splash of chili sauce before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is easy to make ahead for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen. Keep the basil separate until you're ready to cook to prevent wilting.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium heat to avoid toughening the chicken. If you prefer, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the dish and keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

While Spicy Thai Basil Chicken shines on its own, I love serving it over fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the savory sauce. For a twist, try it with rice noodles or quinoa for a healthier grain alternative. The dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, which add color and crunch, balancing the spicy notes.

To elevate your meal, consider garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges. A squeeze of lime just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a fried egg on top for a delicious twist inspired by Thai street food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can swap chicken for pork, tofu, or shrimp.

→ Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?

Definitely! Just use fewer bird chilies or opt for a milder chili variety.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While best served fresh, you can marinate the chicken ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It goes wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or a side of stir-fried vegetables.