Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice

There’s something about the combination of tender chicken, fragrant basil, and savory seasonings that makes Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice an absolute winner. Trust me, you’re going to love this dish – it’s like a flavor-packed hug for your taste buds! The stir-fry method ensures the rice gets those crispy bits of golden goodness while maintaining a satisfying balance of fresh and bold flavors. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this fried rice is bound to impress. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients, it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: You can easily adjust the spice level or toss in extra veggies based on what’s in your fridge.

Budget-Friendly: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so you won’t have to spend much to create this flavorful dish.

Quick and Easy: In just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a hot, flavorful meal ready to go – perfect for those busy nights when you still want something tasty.

Customizable: Add extra protein or veggies to suit your preferences, or even make it vegetarian – this dish is totally adaptable.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this fried rice – it’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:

Chicken: The tender chicken pieces are the base of this dish. They absorb all those wonderful flavors and become juicy and delicious in every bite.

Basil: Thai basil has a fragrant, slightly peppery flavor that brings authenticity to the dish. It’s the star herb that gives the fried rice its signature taste.

Rice: Day-old rice works best for fried rice because it’s drier and less likely to get mushy.

Garlic and Onion: The savory backbone of the dish. The garlic adds a rich depth, while the onion brings a slight sweetness when it caramelizes.

Fish Sauce: This adds that irresistible umami flavor that makes Thai food so special. It’s the secret ingredient that takes this fried rice from good to great.

Soy Sauce: To balance out the fish sauce and add that perfect salty flavor to the rice.

Chili: If you like a bit of heat, toss in a few chopped chilies to really bring the spice.

Egg: Scrambled into the rice, the egg gives a rich, comforting texture to the dish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by heating a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. A hot cooking surface will give your rice that crispy edge we all love.

Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the pan and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. This will give your fried rice its main protein, full of flavor.

Sauté the Garlic and Onion: Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the garlic and onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.

Scramble the Eggs: Push the chicken and veggies to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked, then mix them back into the chicken mixture.

Add the Rice: Add the day-old rice to the pan and break it up with your spatula. Stir it around, ensuring the rice gets coated in all the wonderful flavors.

Season the Rice: Pour in the fish sauce, soy sauce, and any optional chili. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.

Toss in the Basil: Finally, toss in the fresh Thai basil. Stir until the basil wilts and infuses the rice with that fragrant, peppery aroma.

Finishing Touches: Remove the pan from heat and let the fried rice rest for a minute before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and intensify.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side of cucumber salad or enjoyed on its own, this dish is sure to impress.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 400

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a side of fresh cucumber salad to balance the heat and add some crunch.
• Pair with a refreshing Thai iced tea for the ultimate Thai meal experience.
• Add some steamed vegetables or a simple green salad to complete the meal.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Day-Old Rice: Use day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice can be too soft and sticky for fried rice.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili to your preference – a little goes a long way.
• Protein Options: Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a variation on the dish.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use fresh rice for this recipe?
   Yes, but day-old rice is preferred as it doesn’t become too mushy when fried.
2. Is Thai basil different from regular basil?
   Yes! Thai basil has a slightly spicy, peppery flavor, which is key to the authentic taste of this dish.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or just load it up with extra veggies.
4. How do I make this dish spicier?
   Add more fresh chopped chilies or a dash of chili paste to crank up the heat.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Fried rice is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
6. What kind of rice should I use?
   Jasmine rice is perfect for this dish because it’s aromatic and light.
7. How do I get crispy rice?
   Let the rice sit undisturbed in the pan for a minute or two to get those crispy bits. Don’t stir too often!
8. Can I add more veggies?
   Definitely! Bell peppers, peas, and carrots would all be great additions.
9. Do I have to use fish sauce?
   Fish sauce is what gives this dish its authentic Thai flavor, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a vegetarian fish sauce alternative.
10. Can I freeze Thai basil chicken fried rice?
    While fried rice is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just reheat it in a pan with a little oil.

Conclusion

Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice is a perfect blend of savory, spicy, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a dinner party, this dish is sure to win over your guests and become a go-to favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every bite – and don’t forget to let the basil do its magic!

Print