Go Back
Simple Chicken Basil Recipe

Simple Chicken Basil Recipe - Comfort Food Meals

Let me tell you about a dish that's bright, flavorful, and oh-so-simple – Simple Chicken Basil. As a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, I’m always on the lookout for meals that are not just tasty but also healthy. 
This dish checks all the boxes. It’s a delightful combination of succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and tangy sauces that can transform any dinner into a special occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Rest Time 24 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 301
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large skinless, boneless chicken breast, diced into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • small onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 2 small red chile peppers, thinly sliced Optional
  • 1/3 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup dark soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 pinch of white sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1/2 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
  1. First things first, gather all your ingredients. The efficiency of this dish depends on prepping beforehand. Dice the chicken into 1-inch pieces, mince the garlic, slice the onion and chile peppers, and grate the ginger.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
  1. In a large skillet or wok, pour in the canola oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that a drop of chicken sizzles when it touches the oil. This step is crucial for a nice sear.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
  1. Add the diced chicken to the hot skillet, spreading it out to ensure even cooking. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it's golden brown and no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
  1. Now, toss in the minced garlic, sliced onion, ginger, and optional chile peppers. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 5: Mix the Sauces
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the dark soy sauce, low-sodium soy sauce, fish sauce, water or broth, and a pinch of sugar. Pour this mixture over your chicken in the skillet.
Step 6: Let It Simmer
  1. Bring the dish to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Add Fresh Basil
  1. Just before serving, stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves. They’ll wilt slightly, releasing their aromatic oils and enhancing the dish.
Step 8: Serve It Up
  1. Serve your Simple Chicken Basil hot over a bed of rice or noodles. Garnish with extra basil leaves if you like. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Notes

  • Marinate Longer: For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for an hour before cooking.
  • Add Veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can add color and nutrition.
  • Adjust Spice: If heat isn’t your thing, skip the chile peppers entirely or substitute with bell peppers.
  • Create a Sauce: Add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the simmer for a thicker sauce.
  • Use Leftovers: This dish is fantastic for meal prep. Leftovers can be used in wraps or salads, making them versatile.