thai basil chicken pad kra pao recipe
The Best thai basil chicken pad kra pao recipe
I’m so excited to share this Thai Basil Chicken Pad Kra Pao recipe with you all. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with my family.
The combination of flavors and textures is just right – spicy, sour, sweet, and savory all at once. The key to this recipe is the use of fresh Thai basil leaves, which add a bright and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
I like to use chicken breast or thighs, whichever I have on hand, and cut it into small pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly. This recipe is also super versatile – you can serve it as a main dish, or use it as a filling for wraps or bowls.
My kids love it when I make this for dinner, and I love how easy it is to whip up on a weeknight. Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies, so I feel good about feeding it to them.
When I first started making this recipe, I was amazed by how quickly the flavors came together – the chili peppers add a nice kick, while the fish sauce provides depth without overpowering the other ingredients. Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit our tastes, but the core elements remain the same.
Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or just want a hearty meal that’s quick to prepare, this Thai Basil Chicken Pad Kra Pao recipe is sure to please.
Thai Basil Chicken Pad Kra Pao
Pad Kra Pao is a popular Thai dish featuring minced chicken, Thai holy basil, chilies, and garlic. This dish is typically served with steamed jasmine rice and a fried egg.
🥘Ingredients
For the Chicken
For the Basil
For Serving
👨🍳Directions
Set aside.
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Thai Basil Chicken Pad Kra Pao is a dish that’s always a good idea for any occasion. It’s versatile, delicious, and packed with flavor.
It works well for family gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To reheat, simply microwave it or heat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water if needed. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice or noodles, or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a fun twist.
It’s a dish that everyone will love. It’s a great way to bring a little bit of Thai cuisine into your home and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal with your loved ones.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Thai Basil Chicken Pad Kra Pao
Q: What is Pad Kra Pao?
Pad Kra Pao is a popular Thai stir-fry dish made with meat (usually chicken or pork), vegetables (like onions and bell peppers), chilies, garlic, and herbs (such as Thai basil). The name ‘Pad Kra Pao’ roughly translates to ‘stir-fry with chilies’ in English.
Q: Can I make Pad Kra Pao with other types of protein?
Sure! While chicken is traditional in Pad Kra Pao recipes, you can easily substitute other proteins like beef (ground or sliced), pork (ground or sliced), tofu, or even shrimp.
Q: How do I store leftover Pad Kra Pao?
Store leftover Pad Kra Pao in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I make Pad Kra Pao ahead of time?
Yes! While you can’t assemble the entire dish ahead of time (since stir-frying involves cooking quickly over high heat), you can prep many components in advance – chop vegetables like onions and bell peppers hours before cooking.
Q: Why does Pad Kra Pao taste so spicy?
The spiciness comes from using fresh Thai chilies (or red pepper flakes) which are then mixed into the sauce during cooking. You can adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or fewer chilies.