Thai Stir-Fried Chicken is my go-to recipe when I’m craving something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. I learned this recipe during a cooking class in Bangkok, and I’ve simplified it for home cooking without losing any of its charm. The mix of fresh herbs, zingy lime, and three different sauces creates layers of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.
About the Recipe
This recipe strikes a perfect balance between authentic Thai flavors and everyday cooking ease. The toasted rice powder (a traditional Thai ingredient) gives the dish a subtle crunch and nutty flavor. Fresh herbs like mint and coriander add brightness, while the trio of sauces creates that characteristic Thai taste that’s both savory and slightly tangy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together – perfect for busy weeknights. The ingredients list might look long, but most are just sauces and herbs that you dump and stir. The chicken stays juicy, and the flavors are bright and fresh. If you’re new to Thai cooking, this recipe is a great starting point. Plus, it’s flexible – add green beans for extra crunch or throw in some basil leaves for more Thai flavor.
Cooking Tips
– Don’t skip the toasted rice powder – it’s worth the extra 2 minutes
– Cut chicken pieces roughly the same size for even cooking
– Have all ingredients ready before you start cooking – it moves fast.
– If using green beans, add them with the garlic
– Toast the rice until golden but not brown, or it’ll taste bitter
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 3-4 people. Total prep and cooking time: 20 minutes. Serve hot over jasmine rice or rice noodles. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 2 days – just reheat in a pan until hot. Garnish with fresh herbs and cashews just before serving.
Similar Recipes
- Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Kra Pao)
- Thai Garlic Pepper Chicken
- Stir-Fried Chicken with Cashews
Nutrient Benefits
This dish is packed with lean protein from chicken. Fresh herbs provide vitamins A and C, while garlic offers immune-boosting compounds. The dish is relatively low in calories but high in flavor. If you add green beans, you’ll get extra fiber and vitamins.
Thai Stir-Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- 300 gms Chicken (chopped, boneless, skinless)
- 1 to 2 Sambar Onions (Shallots, sliced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tbsp Fish Sauce
- 1/2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
- Juice and Zest of 1/2 Lime
- 1/4 cup Coriander Leaves (chopped)
- 1/4 cup Mint Leaves (chopped)
- 1 Red Chilli (small, sliced)
- 1/4 tsp Sea Salt
- 2 tsp Rice
- 3 tsp Oil
Optional:
- 1/4 cup Green Beans (sliced)
- 3 tbsp Basil Leaves (chopped)
- 2 to 3 tbsp Cashewnuts (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Dry roast the rice until golden and remove.
- Allow it to cool.
- Once cooled, grind it coarsely and keep aside.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium flame.
- Add the chicken pieces and onions.
- Stir-fry for 5 minutes or until the onions are browned.
- Add garlic, salt and cook for 3 more minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, lime juice and grated lime zest.
- Mix well.
- Add the coriander leaves and mint leaves.
- Add the red chillies and ground rice.
- Mix well and remove after a minute.
- Serve with rice or noodles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes. Skip the red chili or use just half. The dish will still taste great with all the other flavors from herbs and sauces.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Both pork and shrimp work great in this recipe. Just adjust cooking time – pork needs about the same time as chicken, shrimp needs just 2-3 minutes.
What can I substitute for fish sauce?
Use extra soy sauce and add a pinch more salt. The taste won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be delicious.
