This quick and flavorful Pad Krapow Gai brings the bold, aromatic taste of Thailand straight to your kitchen. With tender ground chicken, spicy chilies, and fragrant holy basil, it’s a one-pan wonder perfect for weeknight dinners or a satisfying lunch!
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Pad Krapow Gai (pronounced pud krah-pow gai) is a Thai street food classic. The name translates to "stir-fried holy basil with chicken," and it's loved for its vibrant flavors.
As one of my favorite Thai dishes, it’s a breeze to whip up, especially when I have holy basil on hand. When I’m in the mood for more Thai dishes, I often turn to Pad Thai, Tom Yum, or even Crying Tiger Steak—but Pad Krapow always wins for its simplicity.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe?
- Quick and easy: Ready in 20 minutes with minimal prep, it’s perfect for busy days.
- Authentic flavors: Holy basil adds a unique, bold aroma that sets it apart.
- Healthy: Loaded with protein, fresh herbs, and simple seasonings.
- Perfect with rice: A comforting meal with jasmine rice to soak up the savory sauce
What is Holy Basil?
Holy basil (bai krapow) is a fragrant herb commonly used in Thai cuisine. Its spicy, peppery flavor makes it stand out.
This herb isn’t just for cooking—it’s revered in Thailand for its medicinal properties and connection to traditional healing. Think of it as the feistier cousin of sweet basil, with a flavor punch that transforms dishes like Pad Krapow.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground chicken: Tender and juicy, the base protein for this stir fry.
- Garlic: Minced for an aromatic base.
- Thai chilies: Adds heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Onion: For a mild sweetness and extra texture.
- Fish sauce: Delivers salty umami goodness.
- Oyster sauce: For a touch of savory richness.
- Soy sauce: Adds depth and balances the flavors.
- Sweet soy sauce: For a hint of sweetness that ties everything together.
- Holy basil leaves: The star ingredient with its unique peppery aroma.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps everything cooking smoothly.
- Fried egg (optional): A classic topping for extra richness.
See recipe card for quantities.
Substitution and Additions
- Protein: Swap chicken for ground pork, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Basil: Use sweet basil if holy basil isn’t available.
- Chilies: Replace with red pepper flakes or milder chilies for less heat.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, green beans, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Sauces: Light soy sauce or tamari can replace regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
How to Make Pad Krapow?
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing the garlic. Remove the stems from the Thai chilies and chop them finely.
- Heat the Oil: Place a wok or large skillet over high heat and add oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and chopped Thai chilies. Stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced chicken to the wok and stir-fry until it's almost cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix together fish sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar. Pour this sauce over the chicken in the wok and stir well to coat.
- Toss in the holy basil leaves and stir-fry for another minute until the basil wilts and releases its aroma.
- Serve: Serve the Pad Krapow Gai hot over steamed rice, and if desired, top it with a fried egg for extra indulgence.
Variation
- Beef Pad Krapow: Substitute chicken with ground beef for a heartier option.
- Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or squid for a coastal-inspired variation.
- Vegetarian: Use tofu and swap fish sauce for soy sauce.
- Mushroom Basil Chicken : Load up on shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a meaty texture.
- Low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice.
- Spicy kick: Add more Thai chilies for extra heat.
- Mild version: Use bell peppers instead of Thai chilies for a gentler flavor.
- Extra crunch: Toss in toasted cashews or peanuts for texture.
What to Serve with This
- Jasmine rice: The perfect companion to soak up the savory sauce.
- Sticky rice: For a heartier, traditional pairing.
- Fried egg: A classic Thai topping for creaminess.
- Tom Yum Soup: A spicy, tangy starter to complement the dish.
- Papaya salad: A refreshing side that balances the heat.
- Spring rolls: Light appetizers that is bursting with flavors and freshness.
- Thai Tea iced tea cream: Sweet and creamy, it cools down the spice.
- Cucumber salad: A cooling, crunchy side dish.
- Naan: A soft and buttery bread for scooping up the stir-fry.
- Pickled vegetables: Adds tang and texture.
- Steamed greens: Like bok choy or Chinese broccoli for balance.
- Pad Thai: Another noodle-based favorite for a Thai feast.
- Fresh herbs: Garnish with cilantro or Thai basil (holy basil vs. Thai basil) for extra flavor.
- Crispy tofu: A plant-based protein side.
- Chili vinegar: A tangy condiment to drizzle on top.
Storage Instruction
To store leftover Pad Krapow, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it thoroughly in a pan or microwave until heated through before serving.
Top Tips
- Use fresh holy basil for the best flavor and aroma.
- Cook over high heat for a quick, authentic stir-fry.
- Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing chilies.
- Prep all ingredients before cooking for smooth execution.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
What Else Can You Use Holy Basil For?
You scored some fresh holy basil and have leftovers from your delicious Pad Krapow adventure! Don't let those flavorful leaves go to waste – here are some other delicious dishes where you can use them:
- Curries: Green curry, red curry, and other Thai curries benefit from a sprinkle of fresh holy basil towards the end of cooking, adding a refreshing touch.
- Soups: Elevate your Tom Yum or Tom Kha Gai with a handful of holy basil leaves just before serving. The vibrant green color and unique flavor add a delightful finishing touch.
- Omelets: For a flavorful and healthy breakfast, incorporate chopped holy basil into your omelet mixture. The unexpected twist will surprise your taste buds in the most delightful way.
- Salads: For an extra layer of flavor and aroma, add a few chiffonaded holy basil leaves to your favorite salad. It pairs particularly well with Asian-inspired salads with ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and peanuts.
- Stir-fries: Experiment by incorporating holy basil into other stir-fries besides Pad Krapow. Its subtle sweetness and peppery notes complement various vegetables like mushroom, meats, and sauces.
- Sauces and dips: Infuse homemade sauces and dips with the essence of holy basil by simmering a few leaves along with other ingredients. This can add a unique twist to your favorite dipping sauces and marinades.
Recipe FAQs
Pad Krapow has a savory, slightly sweet, and spicy flavor with a distinct aroma of holy basil.
The English translation of "Krapow" is "holy basil.
Common basil, also known as sweet basil, has a mild, slightly sweet flavor, while holy basil has a more peppery, clove-like taste with hints of sweetness.
While you can substitute common basil for holy basil in some recipes, be aware that they have different flavor profiles, so the dish may taste slightly different.
Holy basil is commonly available in Asian grocery stores, health food stores, or specialty markets, often in fresh or dried form.
Other Asian Recipes
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📋 Recipe
Pad Krapow Gai (Chicken and Holy Basil Stir Fry)
Equipment
- 1 wok
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons neutral oil such as vegetable or canola, divided
- 1 tablespoons garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 3 pieces Thai chile peppers
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis) (optional)
- 1 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup holy basil leaves
- 4 eggs optional
- cooked jasmine rice
Instructions
- Heat oil in a wok over high heat.
- Add garlic and onion, stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add chicken and cook until almost done.
- Mix fish sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sweet soy sauce and sugar in a bowl, then pour over the chicken.
- Add holy basil leaves and stir-fry until wilted.
- Serve hot over rice, optionally topped with a fried egg.
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