Thai Basil Chicken is a quick Thai stir-fry dish made with ground chicken, Thai basil, garlic, bird’s eye chilies, onion, and a savory sauce of soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and water. It’s quick and works well for a weeknight dinner when you want bold, takeout-style flavor in about 30 minutes. Unlike restaurant-style Pad Kra Pao that can feel fussy or hard to balance at home, this version uses easy pantry sauces and ground chicken for fast cooking and super-adjustable heat, so you can dial the spice to your comfort level.
Why You’ll Love This Flavorful Dish
- Quick and Simple . Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Effortless Preparation . Minimal chopping and cooking for a no-fuss experience.
- Incredibly Flavorful . The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and chilies creates an aromatic and delicious meal.
With the magic of stir-frying, you’ll achieve that desirable mix of tender chicken and crisp vegetables, making it a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
What Is Thai Basil Chicken?
Thai Basil Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that offers a delightful mix of savory, spicy, and fresh notes. It’s a well-balanced meal that excites the palate with its depth and complexity, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy bold and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 Pound Ground Chicken - The main protein of the dish, ground chicken absorbs the flavors well.
- 1 Cup Thai Basil - Essential for its distinctive flavor and fragrance. Regular basil can be substituted if necessary.
- 4 Cloves Garlic - Adds a pungent, savory depth to the dish.
- 3 Bird’s Eye Chilies - Provide the spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.
- 1 Onion - Adds sweetness and texture.
For the Sauce
- 2 TBSP Soy Sauce - Adds saltiness and umami.
- 1 TBSP Fish Sauce - Contributes a unique depth of flavor and authenticity.
- 1 TBSP Oyster Sauce - Adds a rich, savory sweetness.
- 1 TBSP Brown Sugar - Balances the saltiness and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 Cup Water - Helps blend the sauce ingredients together.
How To Make Thai Basil Chicken
- Prepare the Ingredients . Start by mincing the garlic and slicing the chilies and onion. Wash and pick the Thai basil leaves from the stems.
- Make the Sauce . In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cook the Chicken . Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil, then sauté the garlic and chilies until fragrant. Add the ground chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add Vegetables . Stir in the onion and bell pepper (if using) and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
- Combine and Stir-Fry . Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another few minutes until the sauce is slightly reduced and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Basil . Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil just right.
- Serve . Serve hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice and top with a fried egg for an authentic touch.
Tips And Tricks
Perfecting Thai Basil Chicken is about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flavorful and satisfying:
- Fresh Basil . Use fresh Thai basil for the best flavor. If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil or holy basil can be used as substitutes.
- Control the Heat . Adjust the number of chilies according to your heat preference. Removing the seeds can also reduce spiciness.
- High Heat Cooking . Stir-frying over high heat ensures the chicken cooks quickly and remains tender.
Variations
Thai Basil Chicken can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some creative variations:
- Vegetarian - Substitute chicken with tofu or a mix of mushrooms.
- Low Carb - Serve over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice.
- Add More Vegetables - Include vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition and color.
What To Serve With Thai Basil Chicken
Thai Basil Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some great options:
- Jasmine Rice - The classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fried Egg - Traditionally served on top, adding richness and texture.
- Cucumber Salad - A refreshing side that complements the spicy chicken.
How Long Does It Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through before serving.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, Thai Basil Chicken can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a pan over medium heat until hot.
Mostly. Thai basil chicken is often used as the English name for Pad Kra Pao (Pad Krapow Gai), a classic Thai stir-fry of chicken with lots of garlic and chilies in a savory sauce. It’s usually finished with basil and sometimes topped with a crispy fried egg. The small catch is basil. Traditional Pad Kra Pao is meant to use holy basil (krapow), while many “Thai basil chicken” recipes use Thai basil because it’s easier to find. So, the dish is very similar, but the aroma can be slightly different.
Yes, you can use regular basil if you can’t find Thai basil for Thai basil chicken / Pad Kra Pao, but expect a different aroma. Italian basil is sweeter and less peppery/anise-like, so the dish tastes a bit less “authentic” but still really good. To get closer to that classic Pad Kra Pao vibe, use more basil than you think you need and add it at the very end so it stays fragrant. A little extra garlic and a touch more chili can help make up for the flavor shift.
Thai basil chicken is usually spicy, since it’s made with plenty of garlic and bird’s eye chilies, but it’s very easy to control the heat. For a milder Thai basil chicken recipe, use fewer chilies (or swap in a milder pepper like jalapeño), remove the seeds, and keep the savory sauce the same so you don’t lose that classic flavor. You can always add extra chili at the table.
More Amazing Asian-Inspired Dishes
- Sesame Ginger Chicken
- Spicy Noodles
- Keto Tuna Salad
- Teriyaki Chicken
- Potstickers
Thai Basil Chicken Recipe | Easy And Perfectly Spicy
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 pound Ground Chicken
- ▢ 1 cup Thai Basil , chopped
- ▢ 4 cloves Garlic , minced
- ▢ 3 Bird’s Eye Chilies , sliced
- ▢ 1 onion , finely chopped
- ▢ 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- ▢ 1 tbsp Fish Sauce
- ▢ 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce
- ▢ 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- ▢ 1/4 cup Water
- ▢ 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients . Start by mincing the garlic and slicing the chilies and onion. Wash and pick the Thai basil leaves from the stems.
- Make the Sauce . In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cook the Chicken . Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil, then sauté the garlic and chilies until fragrant. Add the ground chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink (5-7 minutes), breaking it up with a spoon.
- Combine and Stir-Fry . Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another few minutes until the sauce is slightly reduced and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Basil . Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil just right.
- Serve . Serve hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice and top with a fried egg for an authentic touch.
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Thai Basil Chicken Recipe | Easy And Perfectly Spicy
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Chicken
- 1 cup Thai Basil chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 3 Bird’s Eye Chilies sliced
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Fish Sauce
- 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients . Start by mincing the garlic and slicing the chilies and onion. Wash and pick the Thai basil leaves from the stems.
- Make the Sauce . In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cook the Chicken . Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil, then sauté the garlic and chilies until fragrant. Add the ground chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink (5-7 minutes), breaking it up with a spoon.
- Combine and Stir-Fry . Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another few minutes until the sauce is slightly reduced and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Basil . Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil just right.
- Serve . Serve hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice and top with a fried egg for an authentic touch.
Thai Basil Chicken Recipe | Easy And Perfectly Spicy https://twosleevers.com/thai-basil-chicken-recipe/
Canned Chicken Salad is a quick, no-cook chicken salad made with canned chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, dill pickles, fresh dill, salt, and black pepper. It’s quick and no-bake and works well for an easy high-protein lunch. Pile it into sandwiches and wraps, or serve it over greens for a low-carb meal. Unlike classic chicken salad recipes that start with cooking and shredding chicken, this version uses pantry-friendly canned chicken so you can mix it up in about 10 minutes, with pickles + fresh dill for extra bright, crunchy flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Fast And Easy Meal
- Quick . Ready in just 10 minutes from start to finish.
- Effortless . Minimal preparation for a no-fuss cooking experience.
- Incredibly Tasty . The creamy dressing combined with tender chicken and crunchy veggies is a match made in heaven.
This canned chicken salad offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Is Canned Chicken Healthy?
Canned chicken can be a healthy and convenient option when chosen carefully and consumed as part of a balanced diet. By selecting low-sodium varieties and pairing it with nutrient-dense foods, you can enjoy the benefits of canned chicken while minimizing any potential drawbacks.
How Can I Make Canned Chicken Taste Good?
Canned chicken is a convenient pantry staple, but it can sometimes lack flavor and texture. Here are some tips and recipes to enhance the taste and make your canned chicken delicious:
- Spices and Herbs - Add a variety of spices and fresh or dried herbs to give your canned chicken a burst of flavor. Good options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, parsley, thyme, and rosemary.
- Fresh Vegetables - Mix in finely chopped fresh vegetables like onions, bell peppers, celery, and carrots for added crunch and flavor.
- Yogurt or Sour Cream - Combine with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 24 ounces canned chicken - The protein base of the salad. Canned chicken is convenient, tender, and flavorful, making it the perfect starting point for a quick and satisfying meal. It provides a hearty texture that blends well with the creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise - Acts as the binder that holds all the ingredients together. It adds creaminess, moisture, and a rich, tangy flavor that defines classic chicken salad.
- 2 stalks celery - Adds a refreshing crunch and a mild, slightly peppery flavor that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and chicken. Celery provides texture and lightens up the overall bite.
- 1/4 cup red onion - Contributes sharpness and a bit of sweetness, enhancing the flavor depth. The red onion also adds color and a mild bite without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup dill pickles - Brings a tangy, briny element that cuts through the creaminess of the dressing. Pickles add zest and a little crunch for contrast.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill - Infuses the salad with a bright, herbal note that elevates the flavor. Dill pairs beautifully with chicken and pickles, giving the dish a fresh, slightly citrusy aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt - Enhances and balances all the flavors in the salad. Since canned chicken and pickles can already contain sodium, salt is added moderately to avoid oversalting.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper - Adds a gentle warmth and subtle spice that complements the creamy texture and bright herbs, rounding out the flavor profile.
How To Make Canned Chicken Salad
- Prepare the Ingredients. Drain the canned chicken and flake it with a fork. Finely chop the celery, red onion, dill pickles, and fresh dill.
- Mix the Dressing. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Toss. Add the flaked chicken, celery, red onion, dill pickles, and fresh dill to the bowl. Toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve. Serve the chicken salad on lettuce leaves, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Tips And Tricks
Making a delicious canned chicken salad involves more than just the right ingredients; it’s about technique and a few kitchen tricks to ensure it turns out flavorful and satisfying. Here’s a comprehensive guide to perfecting it:
- Drain Well . Make sure to drain the canned chicken thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in your salad.
- Chill Before Serving . Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Customize . Adjust the ingredients to your taste. Add more pickles for extra tang or more mayonnaise for a creamier texture.
Variations
Canned chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Here are some creative variations on the classic:
- Greek Yogurt - Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.
- Avocado - Mash an avocado and mix it in for a creamy, nutritious twist.
- Spicy - Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
What To Eat With Canned Chicken Salad
Canned chicken salad pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some great options:
- Lettuce Wraps - For a light and refreshing meal.
- Sandwiches - Use your favorite bread for a classic chicken salad sandwich.
- Crackers - Serve with crackers for a quick and easy snack or appetizer.
- Pita Bread - Fill pita bread for a delicious and portable option.
How Long Does It Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
Can You Freeze It?
It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad as the mayonnaise can separate and the texture can change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator.
Yes, canned chicken is good for chicken salad if you pick a decent brand and handle it right. Use chunk canned chicken breast (not overly shredded), drain it very well (pat dry if needed), and flake it so the texture isn’t mushy. The flavor gets a big upgrade with classic add-ins like mayo, celery, red onion, and bright, punchy mix-ins like dill relish. Done this way, chicken salad with canned chicken is a fast, high-protein, pantry-friendly lunch that works great for sandwiches, wraps, or keto lettuce wraps without tasting “canned.”
To keep canned chicken salad from being watery, start by draining the canned chicken extremely well. Press it in a strainer and even pat it dry with paper towels, so you’re not mixing extra liquid into the bowl. Chop celery and red onion small but crisp, and let the salad chill 15–30 minutes so everything binds; if it still loosens up, stir in a little more mayo (or add-ins like extra shredded chicken) to tighten the texture.
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in canned chicken salad, and it’s a great way to make a lighter, high-protein version. It helps to use plain full-fat Greek yogurt so the texture stays thick and not watery. For the best flavor and creaminess, many people do a half mayo / half Greek yogurt chicken salad combo, then punch it up with relish, celery, and red onion. Just make sure you drain the canned chicken really well first. Yogurt won’t hide excess liquid the way mayo can, so good draining is key to a not-watery salad.
More Simple Chicken Recipes
- Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Chicken Teriyaki
- Bourbon Chicken
- Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
- Air Fryer Chicken Burgers
- Honey Balsamic Chicken
Canned Chicken Salad Recipe | Quick Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- ▢ 24 ounces Canned Chicken
- ▢ 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- ▢ 2 stalks Celery , finely diced
- ▢ 1/4 cup Red Onion , finely diced
- ▢ 1/4 cup Dill Pickles , finely diced
- ▢ 2 tbsp Fresh Dill
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients. Drain the canned chicken and flake it with a fork. Finely chop the celery, red onion, dill pickles, and fresh dill.
- Mix the Dressing. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Toss. Add the flaked chicken, celery, red onion, dill pickles, and fresh dill to the bowl. Toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve. Serve the chicken salad on lettuce leaves, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Get support & connect with our community on Facebook!
Nutrition
Don’t forget to check out my other Ketocookbooks.
Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats , and Easy keto in 30 minutes.
