Taste the World

Thai Basil Chicken Recipe

Last updated: May 2026

Thai basil chicken is a fast stir-fry inspired by the everyday street-food lunches served across Bangkok. This version keeps the method quick and practical, with supermarket swaps for fresh herbs and sauces.

Thai basil chicken stir fry with rice

Recipe Summary

Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
12 minutes
Total time
22 minutes
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Estimated cost
£7-£10
Cuisine
Thai
Inspired by
Bangkok street food

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 500g chicken mince or finely chopped chicken thighs
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 red chilli, sliced, or chilli flakes
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce or extra soy sauce
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • A large handful of basil
  • Cooked rice and fried eggs, to serve

Method

  1. 1

    Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan until hot.

  2. 2

    Add the chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through.

  3. 3

    Add garlic and chilli, then cook for 30 seconds.

  4. 4

    Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce or extra soy sauce, and brown sugar.

  5. 5

    Turn off the heat and fold through the basil so it wilts without losing freshness.

  6. 6

    Serve with rice and a fried egg if you like.

Easy UK & European Ingredient Swaps

IngredientEasy swap
Thai holy basilBasil with a little mint
Fresh Thai chilliesRed chilli or chilli flakes
Oyster sauceSoy sauce with a tiny pinch of sugar
Fish sauceSoy sauce with lime juice

Budget Cooking Tips

  • Chicken mince is usually cheaper than diced breast and cooks quickly.
  • Serve with rice and an egg to make a small amount of meat go further.
  • Use basil stems finely chopped in the stir-fry to reduce waste.
  • Frozen chopped garlic can save time and money if you cook stir-fries often.

Plan the Holiday Behind This Dish

This dish is inspired by quick Bangkok street-food lunches where rice, stir-fried meat, herbs and chilli come together fast. Use it as a weeknight taste of Thailand, then explore confirmed Thailand and Asia travel guides.

Thailand Thailand holidays from the UK Explore guide → Asia Browse Asia holiday guides Explore guide → Vietnam Vietnam budget travel guide Explore guide → Cambodia Cambodia budget travel guide Explore guide →
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FAQs

Can I make Thai basil chicken without Thai basil?

Yes. Ordinary basil with a small amount of mint is a useful UK supermarket swap.

Can I make this less spicy?

Use half a chilli or skip it completely, then add chilli flakes at the table.

What should I serve with Thai basil chicken?

Plain jasmine rice and a fried egg make it filling and close to a simple street-food style meal.