Fresh basil brings bold, aromatic flair to this simple yet vibrant chicken dish. Each bite delivers a mix of tender meat and herbaceous brightness that feels both refreshing and deeply satisfying.
This recipe highlights clean, wholesome ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Sautéed chicken pairs perfectly with chopped basil, garlic, and a splash of olive oil to create a light but flavorful sauce.
The basil doesn’t just season it transforms the entire dish with its naturally sweet and peppery notes. Served over rice, pasta, or alongside grilled vegetables, it becomes an easy favorite for lunch or dinner.
No need for complicated techniques or long cook times. A handful of ingredients and a few steps lead to something that tastes like it came straight from a garden-side kitchen. This basil chicken recipe brings freshness to the table and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Chicken With Fresh Basil Recipe
Chicken with fresh basil is a quick and tasty dish. It brings bold flavors using simple ingredients. The fresh basil adds a sweet and peppery note.
The chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a weeknight dinner. It pairs well with rice or noodles. Let’s get started.
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Serving: 4 people
- Calorie: 310 per serving
- Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients
For the chicken:
-
500g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
-
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
-
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
-
2 red chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
-
1 tablespoon soy sauce
-
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
-
1 teaspoon fish sauce
-
1 teaspoon sugar
-
1/4 cup water
For garnish:
-
Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Cut the chicken into small, thin pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and water. Stir well and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the garlic and chili
Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add garlic and chili. Stir for 30 seconds. Do not burn the garlic.
Step 4: Cook the chicken
Add the chicken to the pan. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until fully cooked and golden. Keep stirring.
Step 5: Add the sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken. Mix well. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens a little.
Step 6: Add basil
Turn off the heat. Add fresh basil leaves. Stir until the basil wilts.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot with rice.
Top Tips
Use fresh ingredients
Fresh garlic, chili, and basil give the best flavor.
Cut chicken thin
Thin slices cook faster and stay juicy.
Don’t overcook basil
Add basil at the end to keep its color and taste.
Adjust heat
Use fewer chilies for a milder flavor. Use more for extra spice.
Variations
Use ground chicken
You can swap sliced chicken with ground chicken for a different texture.
Add vegetables
Add bell peppers, green beans, or carrots for extra crunch.
Try other proteins
Use shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken.
Make it saucier
Add a little more water if you want extra sauce to pour over rice.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
-
Calories: 310 kcal
-
Protein: 30g
-
Carbohydrates: 6g
-
Fat: 18g
-
Sugar: 3g
-
Fiber: 1g
-
Sodium: 820mg
FAQs
Can I use dried basil?
No. Dried basil has a very different flavor. Fresh basil is best for this dish.
What type of basil should I use?
Thai basil is perfect. But sweet basil also works.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in a sealed container in the fridge. Eat within 2 days.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze in small portions. Reheat well before eating.
What can I serve with this?
It goes great with jasmine rice, sticky rice, or rice noodles.
Conclusion
Chicken with fresh basil is fast, simple, and full of flavor. The mix of garlic, chili, and basil makes it stand out. You can make it spicy or mild. Serve it with rice for a complete meal. This recipe is perfect for busy days. Try it once. It may become your go-to dinner dish.
