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Savory Thai Basil Chicken Recipe Easy Spicy Aromatic Sauce Guide

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A quick and flavorful Thai basil chicken stir-fry with a spicy aromatic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender ground chicken with fresh Thai basil and a bold, savory sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400g) ground chicken
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce for vegetarian)
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (avocado or canola oil can be used)
  • 2 stalks green onions, chopped
  • Optional: fresh lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: mince garlic, chop green onions, and pick fresh Thai basil leaves, discarding thick stems (about 10 minutes).
  2. Mix the sauce: combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl until sugar dissolves.
  3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (1-2 minutes).
  4. Add minced garlic and red chili flakes; stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add ground chicken, breaking up lumps with a spatula; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink.
  6. Pour in the prepared sauce; stir well to coat the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Remove from heat and fold in basil leaves and chopped green onions to wilt basil gently.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice and lime wedges.

Notes

Cook ground chicken over medium-high heat without crowding the pan to brown slightly and add flavor. Add basil off the heat to preserve its vibrant color and aroma. Adjust chili flakes to control spice level. Prepare sauce ahead for smooth cooking flow. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3 days or frozen for 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai basil chicken, spicy chicken stir-fry, quick Thai recipe, easy dinner, ground chicken recipe, aromatic sauce, weeknight meal