Thai Basil Chicken with Jasmine Rice

Thai Basil Chicken with Jasmine Rice is a vibrant, fragrant dish featuring tender chicken stir-fried with garlic, chilies, and a rich blend of umami sauces, finished with fresh basil leaves. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, this meal offers the perfect balance of heat, aroma, and savory depth, capturing the essence of Thai street-food cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is quick to prepare yet delivers powerful flavor. The combination of garlic, chilies, and Thai basil creates a bold and aromatic profile that is both satisfying and comforting. It cooks in minutes, uses accessible ingredients, and tastes remarkably authentic. Whether for a speedy weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch, this recipe consistently impresses.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice

• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 Thai chilies (or red chili flakes to taste)

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 teaspoon sugar

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions and keep warm.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

3. Add the minced garlic and Thai chilies, sautéing briefly until fragrant.

4. Add the sliced chicken breast and cook until no longer pink.

5. Stir in the red bell pepper and cook for 2–3 minutes.

6. Add soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly.

7. Continue cooking until the sauce reduces slightly and the chicken is fully cooked.

8. Add the fresh basil leaves and toss until just wilted.

9. Serve hot over jasmine rice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use ground chicken for a more traditional Thai basil chicken texture.

• Replace chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef.

• Add green beans or mushrooms for added texture.

• Use holy basil for an even more authentic Thai flavor.

• Add a fried egg on top for the classic Thai street-style presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the sauce. Microwave reheating is also suitable but may soften the basil further.

FAQs

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, use fewer chilies or substitute with mild red pepper flakes.

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is essential for the correct flavor and texture; dried basil is not recommended.

What type of basil should I use?

Thai basil is ideal, but sweet basil can be used if Thai basil is unavailable.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free fish sauce.

Is jasmine rice necessary?

Jasmine rice provides authentic aroma and texture, but basmati rice is an acceptable substitute.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes, increase all sauce ingredients proportionally for extra sauciness.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Use tofu instead of chicken and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a plant-based fish-sauce alternative.

Why did my chicken turn tough?

Overcooking chicken breast can cause dryness; cook only until just done.

Can I meal-prep this dish?

Yes, it reheats well and works great for weekday lunches.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely—bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots all complement the flavors.

Conclusion

Thai Basil Chicken with Jasmine Rice is a fast, flavorful dish that brings authentic Thai taste to your kitchen with minimal effort. Its combination of aromatic herbs, savory sauces, and tender chicken creates a satisfying meal suitable for any day of the week. Enjoy the bold, comforting, and perfectly balanced flavors this recipe provides.

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