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Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Kra Pao Gai)

Steamed Jasmine Rice
dairy-freegluten-free

Ingredients

Method

1

Mince the garlic and chilies together into a rough paste using a knife or mortar and pestle; this is the flavor base for the whole dish.

2

In a small bowl, whisk together the tamari, dark soy sauce, sugar, and water until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.

3

Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the garlic-chili paste and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the ground chicken. Break it up with a spatula and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and mostly cooked through.

4

Pour in the sauce mixture and stir-fry for another 2 minutes, letting the chicken finish cooking and the sauce reduce slightly so it clings to the meat.

5

Remove from heat, add the Thai basil leaves, and toss just until wilted, about 15 seconds — the residual heat is enough, overcooking turns the basil dark and bitter.

6

Spoon over hot jasmine rice with cucumber slices on the side to cool the palate.

Notes

  • For a traditional touch, top each bowl with a crispy fried egg (khai dao) — fry sunny-side up in hot oil until the edges are crisp and lacy.
  • Ground pork or turkey work well in place of chicken.
  • Holy basil (bai kra pao) is more authentic than sweet Thai basil if you can find it at an Asian market.

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