If you’re craving a dish that packs a punch of bold, spicy flavors with the freshness of herbs, spicy Thai basil chicken (Pad Krapow) is exactly what you need. This classic Thai street food favorite combines ground chicken with fiery chilies, aromatic garlic, and plenty of fresh Thai basil to create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will show you how to make authentic Thai basil chicken quickly and easily at home. You’ll love how the spicy and savory elements come together in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Authentic Thai flavors with fresh basil and spicy chilies.
- Uses ground chicken for a lean, protein-packed meal.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with rice or noodles.
- Aromatic and vibrant, satisfying your craving for spicy comfort food.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your spicy Thai basil chicken come alive with flavor. Make sure to use fresh Thai basil for the authentic taste.
- 1 pound ground chicken (preferably thigh meat for juiciness)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 fresh red Thai chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, packed
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
How to Make Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow)
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies; stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden.
- Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Pour in the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Turn off the heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves, stirring until wilted and fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh Thai basil leaves for authentic aroma and flavor; sweet basil is a good substitute if unavailable.
- Adjust the number of chilies to your preferred spice level—start with fewer if you’re sensitive to heat.
- Ground chicken thigh adds more moisture and flavor than breast meat, but use whichever you prefer.
- Prepare all ingredients before cooking; stir-frying happens quickly and requires constant attention.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the basil’s bright flavor at its peak.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to warm the chicken gently, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
You can also freeze the cooked dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove to preserve texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats instead of ground chicken?
Yes, ground pork or turkey work well in this recipe, offering slightly different flavors and textures. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
What if I can't find Thai basil?
If Thai basil is unavailable, sweet basil is a suitable substitute though the flavor will be milder and less peppery. You could also try holy basil if you want to replicate the traditional flavor more closely.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is moderately spicy thanks to the fresh Thai chilies. You can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the number of chilies used or removing the seeds for less intensity.
Is Pad Krapow typically served with rice?
Yes, Pad Krapow is traditionally served over steamed jasmine rice, which helps balance the bold, spicy flavors and makes for a satisfying meal.