There’s a reason Thai basil chicken, also known as Pad Krapow Gai, is one of the most popular street food dishes in Thailand. It’s incredibly simple, packed with bold flavors, and comes together in less time than it takes to order takeout!
This homemade version features juicy ground chicken, crispy garlic, dried red chilies, and a rich, savory sauce that’s perfectly balanced with soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and just a touch of sweetness. Fresh Thai basil is stirred in at the very end, adding its signature peppery aroma that makes this dish unforgettable.
Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or already love making Asian-inspired meals at home, this recipe is approachable enough for beginners while still delivering authentic flavor. Best of all, everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup just as easy as dinner.
If your family loves quick weeknight meals that don’t sacrifice flavor, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry
This recipe checks all the boxes for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Ready in only 20 minutes
- Uses simple ingredients found at most grocery stores
- Better than takeout
- Easy to customize the spice level
- Perfect for meal prep
- High in protein
- Naturally dairy free
- Made in one skillet or wok
- Restaurant-quality flavor at home
What Is Thai Basil Chicken?
Thai basil chicken, or Pad Krapow Gai, is one of Thailand’s most iconic comfort foods. It’s traditionally made with minced chicken that’s quickly stir-fried over high heat with garlic, chilies, savory sauces, and holy basil.
While holy basil can be difficult to find outside of Thailand, Thai basil is the most common substitute and still creates an incredibly delicious dish. Its slightly spicy, licorice-like flavor pairs perfectly with the savory sauce and tender chicken.
It’s commonly served over hot jasmine rice with a crispy fried egg on top, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ground Chicken
Ground chicken cooks quickly and absorbs all of the delicious sauce. Ground turkey or ground pork also work well if that’s what you have on hand.
Thai Basil
Fresh Thai basil gives this dish its signature flavor. If you can’t find it, regular sweet basil can be substituted, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is one of the stars of this recipe. Don’t be shy here. It adds so much flavor.
Dried Red Chilies
Whole dried red chilies provide authentic heat and aroma. Adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
Oyster Sauce
Adds richness and depth while helping create that glossy stir fry sauce.
Soy Sauce
Regular soy sauce provides the perfect salty balance.
Dark Soy Sauce
Dark soy sauce gives the chicken its beautiful rich color without making the dish overly salty.
Fish Sauce
Fish sauce adds authentic umami flavor that’s essential in many Thai dishes.
Brown Sugar
Just a small amount balances the salty and spicy flavors.
Meal Prep and Storage
Thai basil chicken is perfect for meal prep because the flavors become even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to three months
This Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry is proof that homemade meals can be just as flavorful as your favorite takeout, without the long wait or extra cost. With its savory sauce, fragrant basil, and perfectly seasoned chicken, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal prepping lunches, or simply craving bold Thai flavors, this easy one-pan recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your family’s most requested dinners.
Easy Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry (Pad Krapow Gai) Ready in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound ground chicken or finely chopped chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 5 cloves garlic finely minced
- 3 to 5 dried red chilies cut into small pieces
- 1 small shallot thinly sliced (optional, but adds sweetness)
- 1½ cups fresh Thai basil leaves loosely packed
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
- 1½ teaspoons fish sauce
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon honey adds a subtle caramelized sweetness
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth or water
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil optional for extra depth
Optional Garnishes
- Crispy fried egg
- Thinly sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
- Steamed jasmine rice
Instructions
- Whisk all of the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl and set aside.
- Finely dice the onion, chop the green beans, mince the garlic, and cut the dried red chilies into small pieces.
- Heat oil in a large skillet and sauté the onion and green beans until slightly tender. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Add a little more oil to the same skillet, cook the ground chicken until browned, then stir the onion and green beans back in.
- Pour in the sauce, add the dried red chilies, and stir until everything is well coated. Turn off the heat and mix in the Thai basil until wilted.
