If you’ve ever visited a Thai restaurant, chances are you’ve come across the iconic dish known as Pad Krapow Gai—a savory, spicy stir-fry made with ground chicken, fragrant basil, and a rich, umami-packed sauce. This dish is beloved in Thailand for its bold flavors and its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and the aromatic notes of Thai basil. It’s quick to make, and once you’ve tasted the deliciously vibrant combination, you’ll understand why Pad Krapow Gai is one of Thailand’s most popular comfort foods.
Making Pad Krapow Gai at home is easy, and it’s a great way to add some spice to your weeknight dinners. Here’s how you can prepare this irresistible Thai dish from the comfort of your kitchen!
Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken :
- For the stir-fry:
- 1 lb ground chicken (or chicken breast, finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 5-6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies (or more, to taste)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for extra crunch and sweetness)
- 1 medium onion, sliced (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (preferably Thai holy basil, if available)
- For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (for authentic umami flavor)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar (preferably palm sugar, but white sugar works too)
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color and depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin the sauce slightly)
- To serve:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Fried egg (optional, but highly recommended for a traditional touch)
Equipment:
- A wok or large skillet
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A small bowl for mixing the sauce
Instructions for Thai Basil Chicken :
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and dark soy sauce (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the water to thin the sauce slightly, and set it aside. This sauce is what gives Pad Krapow Gai its signature salty-sweet depth.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies to the pan. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic is fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Once the garlic is fragrant, add the ground chicken to the wok. Use your spatula to break it apart into small crumbles as it cooks. Stir-fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, or until it is cooked through and no longer pink. If you’re adding onion and bell pepper, toss them in at this stage and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Basil
Once the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are tender, pour the prepared sauce into the pan. Stir everything together so the chicken is coated in the sauce. Allow it to cook for another minute or two so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
Next, add the fresh Thai basil leaves to the wok. Stir them in quickly, allowing the heat to wilt the basil and infuse the dish with its fragrant aroma. Thai basil has a distinct, slightly peppery flavor that makes Pad Krapow Gai so irresistible.
Step 4: Serve
Once the basil is wilted and everything is well combined, your Pad Krapow Gai is ready to serve! Spoon a generous portion of the stir-fry over a bowl of steamed jasmine rice, and top with a fried egg if desired. The runny yolk from the egg adds richness and balances the heat of the dish beautifully.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Now, dig in and enjoy the explosive flavors of Pad Krapow Gai! The spicy chicken, savory sauce, and aromatic basil come together in each bite, delivering a satisfying and balanced dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pad Krapow Gai:
- Adjust the heat: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, start with fewer chilies and taste as you go. Thai bird’s eye chilies are very hot, so be sure to adjust based on your preference.
- Use fresh Thai basil: Thai basil is key to this dish. It has a distinct flavor that regular sweet basil can’t replicate. If you can find it at an Asian market, it’s well worth using!
- Serve with a fried egg: For an authentic touch, top your Pad Krapow Gai with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds a wonderful richness that complements the spiciness of the dish.
- Customize your veggies: While traditional Pad Krapow Gai is made with just chicken and basil, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
Health Benefits of Pad Krapow Gai:
Pad Krapow Gai is not only flavorful but also quite nutritious. Ground chicken is a lean protein, and the dish is packed with fresh herbs and vegetables. The use of fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce adds umami flavor without being overly heavy, and you can always control the amount of sugar and salt to make it lighter. Pairing it with steamed rice makes it a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and full of vibrant flavors.
Conclusion:
Pad Krapow Gai is a simple yet deeply flavorful Thai dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With its spicy kick, savory sauce, and aromatic basil, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the bold flavors of Thailand right to your home. Whether you’re a fan of Thai food or just looking for something new to try, this dish is a must-try! Once you’ve made it once, you’ll want to make it again and again. Enjoy this savory stir-fry with steamed rice and a fried egg for the full experience. Happy cooking!
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