Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Basil Chicken - Thai Recipe

Basil chicken, made with basil leaves, minced chicken, soy sauce, garlic, shallots, chillies, sugar, lime juice, salt and oil.
Basil Chicken is not only one of Thailand’s most popular dishes but is also beloved across the globe. Its presence is clear in food and recipe searches (TOM YUM SOUP). Thousands of Basil Chicken recipes are available, and finding Basil Chicken across Thailand is effortless. The dish appears everywhere and is a staple of Thai street food. Often cooked on the spot, this iconic Thai dish is served with a scoop of rice and sometimes alongside a fried wobbly egg (THAI FRIED RICE).

Basil Chicken, or Thai-style chicken, can be easily prepared at home. Fresh basil leaves are the key ingredient, giving the dish its aroma and lifting appetite instantly. Between chicken pieces and minced chicken, the latter is the better choice, as it reduces cooking time significantly. Still, whether using chicken pieces or minced chicken, cook only until fully done and the texture reaches the desired tenderness (THAI EGG CURRY).

This Basil Chicken recipe is simple and pantry-friendly. Ingredients are minimal and can be adjusted according to taste. For a milder, kid-friendly version, omit the chilies. The result is a flavorful, mouthwatering Basil Chicken, ideal for rice, sandwich filling, or as a small appetizer or starter.

 

Attached YouTube cooking shorts make it convenient for those who prefer visual guidance. For others, the recipe is below.


Adding basil leaves into stir fried minced chicken with chilies, lime juice, soy sauce, salt and oil.

Ingredients for Basil Chicken (as needed)

Minced chicken

Basil leaves

Chopped shallots

Chopped garlic

Soy sauce

Chilies 

Lime juice

Palm sugar

Oil

Salt

 

How to Make Basil Chicken

Heat oil.

Sweat shallots and garlic

Add chicken and soy sauce.

Quickly stir in.

Add chilies, salt, lime juice and sugar.

Stir all in.
Off the heat, add basil leaves and stir a couple of times. 

Bowl of Basil Chicken, made with minced chicken, basil leaves, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, salt and oil.

Basil Chicken - Thai Recipe

Basil Chicken is not only one of Thailand’s most popular dishes but is also beloved across the globe. Its presence is clear in food and reci...