Basil Chicken Recipe
Delve into the culinary simplicity and robust flavors of our Basil Chicken recipe, a dish that promises not only to satiate your taste buds but also to introduce you to the aromatic world of holy basil. This recipe harnesses the unique characteristics of holy basil, which offers a peppery kick compared to the sweeter notes of its common cousin, making it a standout ingredient in our kitchen.
Ingredients Breakdown
For this dish, you’ll need 12 to 15 fresh basil leaves—holy basil if available—for its distinctive flavor. You’ll also use 1 lb. of ground chicken breast, 3 tablespoons of cooking oil, 2 tablespoons of fish sauce for umami depth, 1 1/2 tablespoons of brown sugar to balance the savory with a hint of sweet, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of chili flakes to add a little heat, and ground black pepper to taste. If you’re looking to meet specific dietary needs, feel free to substitute the chicken for a plant-based mince and use tamari instead of fish sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by heating the cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, then stir in the chili flakes to let the flavors meld. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart as it cooks. After about 3 minutes, as it starts to gain some color, pour in the fish sauce and sprinkle in the brown sugar. Let this simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked yet tender. To finish, fold in the fresh basil and a dash of black pepper, cooking just until the basil is wilted and aromatic. This sequential method ensures each flavor component melds beautifully while maintaining the integrity of each ingredient.
Recipe Tips
Selecting Basil: Opt for vibrant green leaves that show no signs of wilting to ensure the freshest flavor.
Spice Adjustments: Tailor the chili heat to suit your palate by increasing or decreasing the flakes as you see fit.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Complement the bold flavors of Basil Chicken with a side of jasmine or basmati rice, which not only soaks up the rich sauce but also contrasts beautifully with the dish’s spicy notes. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or sautéed vegetables to add a fresh component to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Preparation Tips: If the sauce is too runny, let it simmer for an additional few minutes. If too dry, add a splash of water.
Advance Preparation: This dish can be made ahead of time and gently reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Variations of the Basic Recipe
Experiment with adding crunchy bell peppers or sweet onions to introduce a textural element, or swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist. Each variation allows you to personalize the dish to your dietary preferences or simply to use what you have on hand.
Our Basil Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a versatile base that invites culinary creativity. Whether you stick to the recipe or make it your own, it’s sure to bring a touch of cultural flair to your dining table. Embrace the opportunity to experiment with flavors and ingredients, making each cooking experience uniquely yours.
Ingredients:
12 to 15 fresh basil leaves (preferably holy basil)
1 lb. ground chicken breast
3 tablespoons of cooking oil
2 tablespoons of fish sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons of brown sugar
2 teaspoons of minced garlic
1 teaspoon of chili flakes
Ground black pepper, as desired
Instructions:
- Begin by heating the cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan, sautéing until fragrant, then incorporate the chili flakes to infuse the oil.
- Introduce the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it apart as it cooks for about 3 minutes, until it starts to brown slightly.
- Mix in the fish sauce followed by the brown sugar, stirring well. Allow the mixture to simmer on medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Fold in the fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of ground black pepper, cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the basil is wilted and aromatic.
- Remove from heat and transfer the basil chicken to a serving dish.
- Serve warm and enjoy with family and friends!
Basil Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 to 15 fresh basil leaves preferably holy basil
- 1 lb. ground chicken breast
- 3 tablespoons of cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon of chili flakes
- Ground black pepper as desired
Instructions
- Begin by heating the cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan, sautéing until fragrant, then incorporate the chili flakes to infuse the oil.
- Introduce the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it apart as it cooks for about 3 minutes, until it starts to brown slightly.
- Mix in the fish sauce followed by the brown sugar, stirring well. Allow the mixture to simmer on medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Fold in the fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of ground black pepper, cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the basil is wilted and aromatic.
- Remove from heat and transfer the basil chicken to a serving dish.
- Serve warm and enjoy with family and friends!