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LUNCH

Authentic Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this authentic Pad Krapow Gai. This beloved dish brings together succulent ground chicken, fragrant holy basil, pungent garlic, and fiery chilies, all wok-tossed in a rich, savory sauce. It's a quick and satisfying meal, traditionally enjoyed over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.

02

Add the minced garlic and Thai bird's eye chilies to the skillet. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

03

Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned and cooked through.

04

While the chicken cooks, combine the fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and chicken broth in a small bowl to create the sauce.

05

Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken. Stir well to coat all the chicken and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

06

Stir in the holy basil leaves. Cook for 1 minute, or until the basil leaves wilt, ensuring their aroma infuses the dish.

07

Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice.

About This Recipe

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this authentic Pad Krapow Gai. This beloved dish brings together succulent ground chicken, fragrant holy basil, pungent garlic, and fiery chilies, all wok-tossed in a rich, savory sauce. It's a quick and satisfying meal, traditionally enjoyed over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice.
Authentic Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For an extra kick, serve with a fried egg on top (kai dao). Adjust the amount of chilies to your preferred spice level. If holy basil is hard to find, regular Thai basil (often labeled 'sweet basil' in Asian markets) is a good substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
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Easy Substitutions

Ground pork or beef can be used instead of ground chicken. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled firm tofu or plant-based ground meat substitute. Soy sauce can replace fish sauce for a less pungent flavor, and a pinch of mushroom powder can enhance umami if omitting oyster sauce.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Thai Basil Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
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