Craving the vibrant flavors of Thailand but don't have time for a restaurant visit? This Fire Thai Basil Chicken recipe brings the authentic taste of your favorite Thai eatery right to your kitchen. Get ready to experience the explosive combination of tender chicken, fragrant basil, fiery chilies, and a savory garlic sauce that will leave you wanting more. This dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and requires ingredients readily available at most grocery stores. Forget takeout – you'll be amazed at how quickly and effortlessly you can create this restaurant-quality meal.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times. This recipe focuses on delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring a perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and aromatic. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Thailand? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below and create this delicious Fire Thai Basil Chicken together.
Tools Needed
- Large wok or skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: 1 pound
- Thai basil: 1/2 cup (roughly chopped)
- Shallots: 2 large (about 1/2 cup minced)
- Green onion: 1 bunch (whites and greens separated)
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Fish sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Soy sauce: 1 1/2 tablespoons
- Sugar: 2 teaspoons (or to taste, can reduce)
- White pepper: a few dashes
- Minced ginger: 1/2 tablespoon (or fresh ginger to taste)
- Hot water: 1/2 cup
- Better Than Bouillon chicken base: 1/2 teaspoon
- Thai chilies: 3 (or Sanos as substitute)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Neutral oil (e.g., avocado oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- Mince shallots, garlic, and chilies. Separate and chop green onions (whites and greens). Roughly chop Thai basil.
- In a cup, combine hot water, chicken base, sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, and ginger. Stir until sugar dissolves.
Step 2. Cook Chicken and Aromatics
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet. Add shallots and green onion whites. Cook until softened.
- Add garlic and chilies, cook briefly.
- Add ground chicken to the wok. Cook, stirring occasionally, until all water evaporates and the chicken browns.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer the Sauce
- Stir in green onion greens and Thai basil.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until thickened.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add MSG (optional). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over rice, garnished with extra chilies and Thai basil.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Use Thai basil for authentic flavor. Regular basil is a poor substitute.
- Adjust sugar to your preference. The chilies balance the sweetness.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for ground chicken; you may need to adjust cooking time and oil quantity.
- Consider using a sugar substitute like monk fruit if desired.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Reduce or increase the amount of chili depending on your spice preference. You can also use milder chilies or add more/less fish sauce to control the heat level.
2. What can I substitute for chicken?
Tofu, pork, shrimp, or beef can be used instead of chicken. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as different proteins cook at varying speeds.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
While best served fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
This Fire Thai Basil Chicken recipe delivers an authentic Thai experience, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it's a dish you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the delicious results and impress your friends and family with this restaurant-quality meal!