20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)

Quickly whip up your new favorite Asian dish, 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow). This vibrant recipe features the fragrant ‘holy’ basil and a delightful mix of salty, sticky, and spicy flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is sure to impress with its ease of preparation and bold taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Profile – The combination of garlic, basil, and chili creates a harmonious blend that excites your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish – Enjoy it over rice or as part of a larger Asian feast; it’s adaptable to various meal settings.
• Healthy Ingredients – Packed with protein from chicken and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for any dinner.
• Simple Cooking Process – With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe with ease.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes creating this dish smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick pan or wok
• Garlic press (optional)
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick pan or wok – Ensures easy cooking and prevents sticking, allowing for effortless stir-frying.
• Garlic press – Saves time by quickly mincing garlic, enhancing flavor without much effort.

Ingredients

For the Base

• ½ cup brown onion or shallot (diced or shallots roughly chopped)
• 8 oz ground chicken
• 5 garlic cloves

For the Flavoring

• ½ cup Thai basil or regular basil
• 1 medium red chili (chopped roughly)
• 1 medium mild hot green pepper (chopped)

For Cooking

• Avocado oil for cooking

Sauces and Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (low sodium if possible)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or 2 teaspoon liquid honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic chili sauce or sriracha

For Serving

• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 2-3 stalks of green onion for garnish
• More basil leaves
• Sesame seeds
• Prawn crackers
• 2 fried eggs

How to Make 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Begin by finely chopping the garlic and green chilies. Set them aside for later use.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Heat avocado oil in a nonstick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onions or shallots. Sauté for a few minutes until they become translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Chili

After the onions are ready, add the minced garlic and chopped green chilies. Stir frequently to release their fragrance without burning.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once fragrant (about 30 seconds), add the ground chicken. Cook until it is no longer pink, ensuring it remains juicy by not overcooking.

Step 5: Incorporate Sauces and Basil

Add all sauces—light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, maple syrup or honey, garlic chili sauce—along with red chili and basil to the cooked chicken mixture.

Step 6: Stir Until Ready to Serve

Stir everything together until the basil wilts but retains its vibrant color. If it looks too dry, feel free to add a splash of water for more moisture.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve over steamed rice topped with fried eggs. Add prawn crackers on the side for an extra crunch. Don’t forget to garnish with green onions, more basil leaves, and sesame seeds for that finishing touch!

Enjoy your delicious 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)!

How to Serve 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)

Serving your 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken can enhance the meal experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Over Steamed Rice

• A classic option, serve the chicken over fluffy steamed rice. This absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.

With Fried Eggs

• Top your dish with a perfectly fried egg. The yolk adds creaminess that complements the spicy chicken.

Accompanied by Prawn Crackers

• Add a side of prawn crackers for crunch. They are great for dipping into the delicious sauce.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance flavors with more fresh basil and chopped green onions. This adds freshness and visual appeal to your plate.

Served in Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, spoon the chicken into crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun and interactive meal.

Paired with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and nutty flavor. They elevate the presentation of your dish.

How to Perfect 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)

Achieving perfection in your 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture in your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and garlic are essential for maximum flavor. Always choose high-quality produce.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice preference. You can remove seeds for less heat.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook ground chicken just until no longer pink to keep it tender and juicy.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to substitute sauces based on what you have at home, like using low-sodium options or different chili sauces.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and color in your stir-fry.
• Serve Immediately: Pad Gai Krapow is best served hot off the stove to retain its vibrant flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)

Pairing side dishes with your 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken can create a balanced meal that satisfies every palate. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut-infused rice adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful stir-fried veggies provides crunch and nutrition, enhancing the overall meal experience.
3. Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad offers sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the chicken dish perfectly.
4. Thai Cucumber Salad: This light salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and spices adds a tangy contrast to the spicy chicken.
5. Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls can be served as an appetizer or side dish for added crunch and variety.
6. Rice Noodles: Soft rice noodles tossed in a light dressing can serve as an alternative base to rice while absorbing flavors from the chicken.
7. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with salt makes for a healthy snack that pairs well with Asian-inspired meals.
8. Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered and fried vegetables offer delightful crunchiness, making them perfect alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that could affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure you cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink. This keeps it juicy and tender, enhancing the dish.
• Ignoring the Basil: Add fresh basil at the end of cooking. Overcooking it can lead to a loss of vibrant color and flavor, so stir it in just before serving.
• Using Too Much Sauce: Balance is key. Too much sauce can make the dish soggy. Start with less and add more if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead: Chop all ingredients before starting to cook. This helps you work efficiently and prevents burning or overcooking while you prep.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and chili make a significant difference in flavor. Avoid using powdered versions for better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days for best quality.

Freezing 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)

• Allow to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat at medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Thai Basil Chicken.

How can I customize my 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow)?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Adjust spice levels by using milder or hotter peppers according to your preference.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer those options over chicken. The cooking method will remain the same.

What type of rice pairs well with this dish?

Jasmine rice is traditional for Thai dishes due to its fragrant aroma. However, any type of steamed rice will complement this meal nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground chicken with plant-based meat alternatives and use mushroom sauce instead of oyster and fish sauce for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This 20 Minute Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Gai Krapow) is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavors that will delight your taste buds. It’s versatile too—feel free to adjust spice levels and add your favorite vegetables. Give it a try; you might find it becomes a new weeknight staple!