Gai pad krapow

Gai Pad Krapow, or Thai Basil Chicken, is a fragrant dish featuring stir-fried chicken with garlic, chilies, and fresh basil, all coated in a savory sauce. This quick recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal that delivers authentic Thai flavors.

23 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves
1 onion
2 chicken breasts
2 red hot chili peppers
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp brown sugar
1 cup basil leaves
Gai pad krapow

Gai Pad Krapow, or Thai Basil Chicken, is a popular Thai street food dish. It is known for its bold flavors and tantalizing aroma, combining garlic, chilies, and fresh basil leaves with tender chicken. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner that brings the taste of Thailand to your home.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the onion into small pieces.
- Thinly slice or chop the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the red hot chili peppers.
2. Cooking:
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and the onions become translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sliced chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped red hot chili peppers to the skillet and stir well to combine.
3. Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, and 1 tsp brown sugar until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
4. Finishing Touches:
- Add the basil leaves to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until the basil leaves wilt and become fragrant.
5. Serving:
- Serve the Gai Pad Krapow hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or your favorite type of rice.

Gai Pad Krapow is a fantastic dish that offers a delightful balance of flavors and a quick cooking time. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can easily recreate this Thai classic at home. Enjoy the aromatic blend of garlic, chilies, and basil, and savor a taste of Thailand in every bite. Paak waan thaan aroi na kaa (Enjoy your meal)!

Gai pad krapow FAQ:

What is the baking time for Gai Pad Krapow?

Gai Pad Krapow is not baked; it is stir-fried. The entire cooking process takes about 10-15 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it is no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should be white and firm to the touch.

Can I store leftovers, and if so, how?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I substitute for basil leaves if I don’t have them?

If you don't have basil leaves, you can use fresh cilantro, mint, or a combination of both for a different flavor profile, though it won't replicate the exact taste of the dish.

What type of pan is best for making Gai Pad Krapow?

A large skillet or wok is ideal for making Gai Pad Krapow, as these allow for even heat distribution and ample space for stir-frying the ingredients.

Tips:

- Use fresh basil leaves for the most authentic flavor.

- Adjust the number of chili peppers according to your heat preference.

- Marinate the chicken in a little soy sauce beforehand for extra flavor.

- Cook the chicken over high heat to give it a nice sear and to keep it tender.

- Serve with a side of jasmine rice or Thai sticky rice to complete the meal.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 200kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 13g
Fiber 1.86g
Sugar 8g
Fat 11g

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