Thai Basil Chicken Recipe: A Flavor Explosion in Your Kitchen
Thai basil chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe focuses on achieving authentic Thai flavors using readily available ingredients. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs.
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For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional, but adds authentic umami)
- ½ tsp ground white pepper
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For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and white pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and allows the flavors to meld.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, chilies, and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Don't burn the aromatics! This is key to a delicious sauce.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the wok and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
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Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), brown sugar, and rice vinegar. Stir well to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Add the Basil: Stir in the Thai basil leaves. Cook for just 1 minute, or until the basil is wilted but still vibrant green. Overcooking the basil will make it bitter.
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Serve: Serve the Thai basil chicken immediately with steamed rice. Garnish with extra chilies or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Tips for the Best Thai Basil Chicken:
- Use fresh ingredients: The freshness of your ingredients will significantly impact the flavor of your dish.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more or fewer chilies depending on your spice tolerance.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
- Don't overcook the basil: Overcooked basil will be bitter.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
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