Little does he know this recipe doesn’t actually have to have zucchini in it. You can use almost any vegetable and still get great results. I used zucchini, mushrooms, and bell pepper as you can see in the picture. Other great veggie choices for this Amazing Thai Basil Chicken could be eggplant, sliced potato, yellow squash, broccoli, cauliflower, bamboo shoots, snap peas, and green beans. I don’t think carrots or corn would go very well in this, but just about anything else would be awesome. It makes this the perfect meal to use up whatever veggies you have in your fridge or freezer.
One ingredient that you might not have on hand if you don’t cook Asian-inspired meals regularly is Fish Sauce. The fish sauce is a vital part of what makes this recipe to.die.for. You might also not keep fresh basil on hand. Make sure you grab some. You can get regular Italian basil, or if you can find Thai basil, grab that. Either will work great.
I am literally soooooo excited for you to try this delicious and actually very simple dinner. It is our new favorite and I think it will be yours, too!
My favorite Asian Recipes
- The Best Asian Style Green Beans
- Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps
- Easy Homemade Pot Stickers
- Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Korean Beef Bowls
- Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs
- Beef Broccoli Fried Rice
step-by-step photos for how to make Amazing Thai Basil Chicken
Frequently Asked Questions about how to make Thai Basil Chicken
is there a SUBSTITUTE I can use for Fish Sauce?
Unfortunately, the unique flavor is fish sauce is hard to replicate. There isn’t a good substitute. The fish sauce is also a really important part of this recipe, so I suggest waiting to make it until you can get some fish sauce.
is this recipe gluten- and dairy-free?
Yes. If you use a gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe is gluten- and dairy-free.
where can I find Thai Basil?
Some larger grocery stores might carry it, but the only place I can find it is at the Asian store near me. Don’t stress if you can’t find it. Regular basil works great.
is it okay to use regular Basil in this recipe?
Yes. Regular basil works really well in this recipe.
Can I use pork or beef instead of Chicken?
Using thin slices of pork or beef in this recipe in place of chicken is absolutely fine. Make sure to try it with chicken at least once, though. We think it’s the best!
chef’s tools:
Chicken Dinners You'll Love
- 2 lbs chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp pepper
- 4 cups vegetables of your choice (I used mushrooms, zucchini, and bell pepper. Other great options are green beans, eggplant, potato, broccoli...I don't suggest carrots or sweet potatoes.)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 6-7 large garlic pieces
- 1 jalapeno, deseeded and finely diced
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 1½ tbsp soy sauce (I used La Choy.)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 can coconut milk
- 3-4 tbsp chopped basil
- Cooked jasmine rice for serving
- In a large deep skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken pieces. Add salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is turning white and is mostly cooked.
- Next, add the onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Cook for 3-4 more minutes or until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
- Next, add the 4 cups of vegetables, chopped basil, and the coconut milk. Stir, bring to a boil, and then turn down to a simmer. Allow to simmer for 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve while fresh and hot over cooked rice.
- Enjoy!
and for Dessert...
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