Go Back
Thai basil chicken stir fry in a white bowl topped with a fried egg and fresh herbs on a neutral background

Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry

This Thai basil chicken stir fry is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and the unique flavors of Thai basil, this easy Thai basil chicken recipe will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this healthy Thai chicken recipe served over rice for a satisfying meal!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4 servings
Calories 195 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken (diced boneless dark meat or ground chicken, approx. 3 cups)
  • ½ cup yardlong beans or green beans (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced, approx. 1 tablespoon)
  • 1-2 shallots (diced, approx. ¼ cup)
  • 2 bird's eye chilies (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 cup Thai basil leaves (or Holy basil, stems removed)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dark soy sauce
  • 1 ½ tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 ½ tablespoons water

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water. Set aside.
  • Prep the aromatics: Finely mince the garlic and chilies. Dice the shallots. For the beans, trim the tips and cut into bite-sized pieces. Harvest only the basil leaves, discarding the tough stems.
  • Prepare the chicken: If using diced chicken, cut into small ½-inch cubes. If using ground chicken, ensure it's thawed and ready to cook.
  • Cook the chicken: Heat a large pan or wok over high heat—this ensures the chicken sears instead of steaming. Add a couple of tablespoons of oil, then toss in the diced chicken and shallots. Stir frequently, cooking for about 5 minutes, until the chicken is browned and no juices remain.
  • Add the aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, bird's eye chilies, and beans. Cook for another 3 minutes. The beans should be tender with a slight crunch.
  • Combine with sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the pan, tossing everything until well coated. Stir to ensure the sauce caramelizes slightly for maximum flavor.
  • Finish with basil: Turn off the heat and gently fold in the Thai basil leaves. The heat from the chicken will wilt them perfectly. Serve hot over rice, preferably with a fried egg!