Name: 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced; 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3-4 bird's eye chili peppers, sliced (adjust for spice preference); 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp vegetable oil

There’s nothing quite like the aromatic embrace of 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow) wafting through your kitchen. Imagine sizzling chicken mingling with fragrant basil, garlic, and fiery peppers, creating a culinary symphony that dances on your taste buds. chimichurri steak with peppers This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the bustling streets of Thailand right to your dinner table.

I can still remember my first encounter with Pad Krapow during a whirlwind trip to Bangkok. Sitting at a tiny street stall, I took that first bite, and it felt like fireworks in my mouth! The harmony of spicy, sweet, and savory made me feel alive in a way only good food can. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends, this dish promises to deliver flavor that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Its bold flavor profile combines spice and sweetness for a tantalizing taste adventure.
The vibrant colors bring visual appeal that makes every plate pop with excitement.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice or noodles, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Ingredients for 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for stir-frying. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
Fresh Thai Basil: Look for bright green leaves; they add an aromatic punch that’s essential to this dish.
Garlic: Fresh cloves are key here—mince them finely to release their bold flavor.
Bird’s Eye Chili Peppers: These little fiery gems pack a serious heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium is best so you can control the overall saltiness of the dish.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth and richness; it’s what makes the sauce utterly irresistible.

For the Sauce:

Brown Sugar: Just a bit balances out the heat from the chili peppers beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow)

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping all your ingredients. Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces—this will help them cook quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Heat Up the Pan

Grab a large skillet or wok and heat up some oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. You want it hot enough to sear but not so hot that it smokes like a chimney!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Chilies

Add minced garlic and sliced chili peppers into the pan. Stir-fry them for about a minute until they’re fragrant—trust me, your neighbors will be jealous!

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Now toss in those diced chicken thighs! Stir-fry them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, about five minutes should do it.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of water. Pour it over the chicken and let everything simmer together for another couple of minutes.

Step 6: Add Basil

Finally, stir in those gorgeous fresh basil leaves until they wilt slightly. This should take no more than a minute; you want them bright green and flavorful!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Pad Krapow—it’s sure to transport you back to that little stall in Bangkok!

You Must Know

This 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow) brings a delightful explosion of flavor to your dinner table.
Quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, and you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds.
Plus, it pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken with soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Sear the chicken in a hot pan until golden brown. While it’s cooking, sauté garlic and chilies in another pan. Combine everything for delicious results!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein. Experiment with veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. You can also adjust the heat by adding more or less chili!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried herbs just don’t cut it here.
Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding chicken to get that lovely sear.
Don’t skip the sugar; it balances out the heat beautifully!

I once made this dish for my friends during a game night, and they raved about how quick and tasty it was! We all ended up going back for seconds—and even thirds!

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow)?

To make 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow), you will need ground chicken or turkey, fresh Thai basil, garlic, chili peppers, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. You may also want to include bell peppers and onion for added flavor. Jasmine rice is a perfect side dish to complement this spicy stir-fry. Using fresh ingredients ensures the best taste and aroma in your dish. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Shrimp Recipe recipe.

How spicy is 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow)?

The spice level in 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow) largely depends on the type and amount of chili peppers you use. Traditional recipes often call for bird’s eye chilies, which are quite hot. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the number of chilies or substitute with less spicy varieties. egg roll in a bowl Adjusting the heat allows everyone to enjoy this delicious meal without overwhelming their taste buds.

Can I make 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow) ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow) ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce according to your recipe, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. teriyaki miso cod recipe When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove and add fresh basil right before serving to retain its aromatic flavor.

What can I serve with 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow)?

This flavorful dish pairs well with various sides. Jasmine rice is a classic choice that complements the spiciness perfectly. Additionally, you might consider serving it with cucumber slices or a simple salad for balance. For those who enjoy a little extra crunch, pickled vegetables also go well alongside this hearty meal.

Conclusion for 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow) :

In summary, 30-Minute Spicy Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow) is a quick and flavorful dish that brings authentic Thai flavors to your kitchen. With easy-to-find ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. flavorful chicken shawarma dish Adjust the spice level to suit your preference while enjoying this mouthwatering stir-fry served over jasmine rice or with fresh sides like cucumber salad. Embrace this vibrant recipe and elevate your culinary skills!