Go Back

Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) — The Ultimate Saucy, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 21 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken thighs finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small shallot minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon Trader Joe’s Chili Onion Sprinkle
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1½ teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce for color + depth
  • 7 tablespoon chicken broth or water
  • 1 large handful Thai basil leaves
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon more Chili Onion Sprinkle
  • Optional: Fried egg
  • Steamed jasmine or coconut rice for serving

Instructions

  • Prep First Have everything chopped and measured before you start. This dish moves fast once the pan is hot.
  • Bloom the Aromatics Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add garlic, shallot, red pepper flakes, and Chili Onion Sprinkle. Sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the Chicken Add chopped chicken thighs. Let them sear for 1–2 minutes before stirring. Cook until mostly browned.
  • Add the Sauce Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and dark soy sauce. Mix well to coat the chicken.
  • Add Broth and Reduce Pour in the chicken broth. Simmer for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken.
  • Taste and Adjust If you want a touch more sweetness, add ½–1 teaspoon honey at the end.
  • Finish with Thai Basil Turn off the heat. Fold in the Thai basil and let it wilt in the residual heat. Add a final sprinkle of Chili Onion Sprinkle if desired.
  • Serve Spoon over hot jasmine or coconut rice. Top with a fried egg for the ultimate finish.