Ground Chicken & Holy Basil Stir Fry (Pad Kra Pao)

Okay, if you’ve never had Pad Kra Pao, you’re about to be introduced to your new favorite stir fry. Seriously, this dish is a flavor explosion that combines savory ground chicken, fragrant holy basil, and just the right amount of spice. Imagine this: tender chicken sizzling in a hot pan with garlic, chilies, and that distinct herby kick of basil, all mingling in a perfect sauce that coats every bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

The beauty of this stir fry is how simple it is, yet how much punch it packs. It’s quick, comforting, and so delicious—whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with family or friends. You’ll have this dish on repeat because it’s the perfect combination of bold flavors and easy prep. Once you try it, you’ll understand why Pad Kra Pao is a beloved dish in Thai cuisine. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Ground Chicken & Holy Basil Stir Fry (Pad Kra Pao)

This dish isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about bringing a little bit of Thailand to your kitchen and having a blast while you do it. Here’s why Pad Kra Pao is a go-to:

Versatile: It’s perfect for everything—busy weeknight dinners, a meal prep staple, or a dish to impress friends at your next gathering. It’s so satisfying, and you can even adjust the spice level to match your mood.

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need fancy ingredients—just a few basics and that holy basil, which really takes this dish to the next level. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you probably already have lying around.

Quick and Easy: This stir fry takes minimal time to cook, so you’ll be sitting down to a delicious, home-cooked meal in no time. It’s perfect for when you’re hungry and don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Customizable: While this recipe is amazing as-is, it’s also so easy to make it your own. Want extra heat? Throw in more chilies. Not a fan of chicken? Swap it out for ground pork, beef, or even tofu. The possibilities are endless.

Crowd-Pleasing: I promise this dish will be a hit with everyone. It’s flavorful, comforting, and just the right amount of spicy, which means it’s perfect for family dinners or a casual dinner party.

Ingredients in Ground Chicken & Holy Basil Stir Fry (Pad Kra Pao)

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering stir fry:

• Ground Chicken: The lean protein that makes up the base of this dish. It’s quick to cook and so tender, absorbing all the bold flavors beautifully.
• Holy Basil: The hero ingredient! This fragrant basil gives the dish its distinct flavor, which is essential to Pad Kra Pao. If you can find it, great—but if not, Thai basil will do in a pinch!
• Garlic: We’re talking about garlic that gets sautéed to golden perfection, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma.
• Bird’s Eye Chilies: These tiny powerhouses bring a spicy kick to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance!
• Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and depth to the sauce.
• Oyster Sauce: A key player in the umami department, giving the dish its savory flavor.
• Fish Sauce: Adds that signature Thai salty, umami richness.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance the heat and bring everything together.
• Vegetable Oil: For sautéing everything and getting that perfect sear on the chicken.

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

Instructions

Let’s dive into making this flavorful masterpiece:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you get cooking, make sure your garlic is minced, chilies are chopped (or left whole for a more subtle heat), and the holy basil is ready to go. This dish comes together quickly, so having everything prepped ahead of time will save you.

Cook the Garlic & Chilies: Heat a little vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies, and sauté for a minute or two until fragrant. This is where the magic begins—the aroma is about to hit you, and you’ll know you’re on the right track!

Add the Ground Chicken: Toss in the ground chicken and cook until it’s fully browned and cooked through. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks to ensure you get that beautiful, crumbled texture.

Season the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and a bit of sugar. Stir everything together so the chicken gets coated in that savory sauce. Let it simmer for a minute or two so all the flavors meld together.

Add the Basil: Now it’s time to bring in that holy basil! Add it in and stir until it wilts down and becomes fragrant. Holy basil wilts quickly, so don’t overdo it—just enough for that beautiful herby aroma to fill the dish.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve this stir fry with a side of hot jasmine rice. If you like, top it with a fried egg for that authentic touch. The crispy edges of the egg pair perfectly with the savory chicken and basil, creating the ultimate bite. You can also add a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor!

How to Serve Ground Chicken & Holy Basil Stir Fry (Pad Kra Pao)

This dish is perfect on its own or paired with simple sides. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your meal:

• Rice: Serve over steaming jasmine rice to balance out the bold flavors. You could also go for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Fried Egg: For the ultimate comfort food experience, top the stir fry with a fried egg. The crispy edges and runny yolk just take it to the next level!
• Fresh Vegetables: A side of sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or bok choy complements this dish beautifully and adds some color to the plate.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop and prep everything the night before to make cooking even faster when you’re hungry.
• Adjust the Spice: If you’re not into super spicy food, use fewer chilies or even omit them for a milder version.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It also reheats beautifully!
• Make it Your Own: Swap the chicken for ground pork or beef if you prefer. You can also try adding more vegetables for extra crunch.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the ground chicken with another protein?
A1: Absolutely! Ground pork, beef, or even tofu will work perfectly in this dish. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, this stir fry keeps well in the fridge. Just reheat it in a pan over medium heat before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan to retain the texture.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! This stir fry freezes well. Just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

Q5: How can I make this dish healthier?
A5: Try using ground turkey or chicken breast instead of ground chicken thigh for a leaner option. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.

Conclusion:

This Ground Chicken & Holy Basil Stir Fry is everything you could want in a meal—flavor-packed, comforting, and quick to make. Whether you’re whipping it up on a weeknight or serving it to guests, it’s sure to be a hit every time. Enjoy the bold flavors, the satisfying spice, and that aromatic basil—because once you try this, you’ll be hooked.

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