Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

There’s something magical about the combination of fragrant Thai basil, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables sizzling together in a hot wok. This Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is a classic dish that brings a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, making it a go-to weeknight dinner that’s simple, satisfying, and packed with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re craving a quick solo meal or feeding the whole family, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver big on taste and freshness without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition, and here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:

• Quick and easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes about 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh ingredients: The vibrant bell peppers, crisp green beans, and fresh Thai basil create a colorful, aromatic dish.
• Flavorful sauce: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar creates a complex, savory-sweet balance.
• Customizable heat: Add or remove the red chili to tailor the spice level to your liking.
• One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup thanks to cooking everything in one skillet or wok.
• Perfect served over jasmine rice: The fluffy rice soaks up every bit of the flavorful sauce.

If you love dishes like Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry or crave exciting twists on stir-fry classics, this recipe is a must-try addition to your culinary lineup.

Shopping List

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color you prefer)
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (look for low sodium if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (ensure it’s a vegetarian or halal-certified brand if needed)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or substitute with soy sauce for a milder flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (white or palm sugar works great)
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1 red chili, sliced (optional, for some heat)
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large wok or deep skillet – ideal for high-heat stir-frying
• Sharp knife – for slicing chicken and vegetables thinly
• Cutting board – to prep your ingredients safely
• Measuring spoons – for precise sauce measurements
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for tossing ingredients evenly in the pan
• Rice cooker or pot – to prepare fluffy jasmine rice

How to Prepare Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips for quick and even cooking. Mince the garlic, slice the bell pepper, trim and halve the green beans, and slice the red chili if using. Rinse the Thai basil leaves and pat dry. Having everything ready at hand will make the stir-fry process seamless.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. This sauce is the flavor powerhouse for your dish, bringing salty, sweet, and umami notes together.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Toss in the chicken slices and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the chicken turns opaque and starts to brown slightly.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add the sliced bell pepper and green beans to the pan. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, retaining their vibrant color and crunch.

Step 5: Pour in the Sauce and Basil

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and infuse the ingredients with flavor. Finally, toss in the fresh Thai basil leaves and sliced red chili if you want some heat. Stir until the basil wilts and releases its fragrant aroma.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve your Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry hot over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

For a fun variation, try pairing it with Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls or noodle dishes like Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry Noodles for more meal inspiration.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Add fresh snap peas and baby corn for a garden-fresh twist.
• Summer: Incorporate juicy cherry tomatoes and extra chili for a bright, spicy kick.
• Fall: Swap bell peppers with roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for warmth.
• Winter: Use hearty vegetables like carrots and broccoli for a comforting, filling dish.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If your chicken turns out dry, try slicing it thinner and cook quickly on high heat to retain moisture.
• If the sauce tastes too salty, add a splash of water or a little extra sugar to balance the flavors.
• Not a fan of fish sauce? Substitute with additional soy sauce or a splash of tamari to keep it savory.
• If the basil doesn’t wilt, add it at the very end of cooking and stir just until fragrant to preserve its aroma.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This dish is best enjoyed fresh to preserve the vibrant flavors and texture of the basil and vegetables. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture (without basil) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. Add fresh basil leaves after reheating for best flavor.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a richer flavor and stay juicy even when cooked quickly. Just slice them thinly like the breast and cook thoroughly.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh Thai basil?

If fresh Thai basil isn’t available, you can substitute with sweet basil, though the flavor will be milder. Adding a bit of fresh mint or cilantro can help brighten the dish.

Is it okay to omit the chili if I don’t like spicy food?

Definitely. The red chili is optional and mainly adds heat. The dish will still be flavorful and aromatic without it.

Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and swap oyster sauce and fish sauce for mushroom-based or soy-based alternatives to keep the umami flavor.

Desserts to Finish

• Mango Sticky Rice – A classic Thai dessert with ripe mango and sweet coconut sticky rice.
• Coconut Ice Cream – Creamy, refreshing, and pairs perfectly after a spicy meal.
• Banana Fritters – Crispy and sweet, these are a fantastic warm dessert.
• Pandan Cake – Light and fluffy with a subtle herbal aroma that complements Thai flavors.

Ready to Cook?

There’s no better time to bring the fresh, vibrant flavors of Thailand into your kitchen with this Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry. Gather your ingredients, heat up the wok, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor, color, and texture. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy every craving. Serve it over steaming jasmine rice and savor the perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and herbal goodness.

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