This classic Thai stir-fry is a weeknight winner, delivering bold flavors in under 30 minutes. Tender chicken strips are seared in a hot wok with aromatic garlic and fiery serrano chilies, then tossed in a savory-sweet sauce made from fish sauce and sugar. The dish comes alive with the addition of fresh Thai basil, which adds a distinct anise-like fragrance and vibrant green color. It&# 226;ÂÂs spicy, salty, and deeply satisfying, perfect for serving over steamed jasmine rice. Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality meal that is both comforting and exciting.
Thai Chicken With Fresh Basil
Description
This classic Thai stir-fry is a weeknight winner, delivering bold flavors in under 30 minutes. Tender chicken strips are seared in a hot wok with aromatic garlic and fiery serrano chilies, then tossed in a savory-sweet sauce made from fish sauce and sugar. The dish comes alive with the addition of fresh Thai basil, which adds a distinct anise-like fragrance and vibrant green color. It&# 226;ÂÂs spicy, salty, and deeply satisfying, perfect for serving over steamed jasmine rice. Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality meal that is both comforting and exciting.Ingredients
Directions
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Skin the chicken breasts and cut into 1.25 x 1 inch strips.
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Remove stems from serrano chilies, discard seeds, and cut lengthwise into thin strips.
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Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
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Add coarsely chopped garlic and stir-fry until golden brown, about 10 seconds.
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Add half of the basil and the chili strips; stir-fry just until basil wilts, about 1 minute.
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Add chicken strips and stir-fry for about 3 minutes until cooked through.
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Add fish sauce, water, and sugar; stir-fry until sauce bubbles and thickens slightly, about 2 minutes.
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Add remaining basil and stir-fry until just wilted, about 5 seconds.
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Serve immediately with steamed rice.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 325.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.5g24%
- Saturated Fat 2.9g15%
- Cholesterol 96.5mg33%
- Sodium 86.4mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 11.6g4%
- Dietary Fiber 6.1g25%
- Sugars 0.3g
- Protein 36.1g73%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Use Thai basil if available for the most authentic flavor; regular sweet basil can be substituted but will taste different.
Serrano chilies are quite hot; remove seeds to reduce heat, or use milder jalapeños if preferred.
"Nuoc Nam" in the ingredients refers to Nuoc Mam (fish sauce).
Serve hot over jasmine rice. A fried egg on top is a traditional accompaniment.
Do not overcook the basil; adding it at the very end preserves its bright color and aroma.
