Thai Basil Chicken Noodles are a tasty, quick dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh basil, and colorful veggies all on a bed of noodles. It’s savory and fragrant, making every bite a delight!
When I make this, I love how the basil adds a bright punch! Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, so clean-up is a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something yummy! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Noodles: Flat rice noodles, like pad thai noodles, are ideal for this dish. They soak up the flavors beautifully. If you can’t find them, consider using linguine or even whole wheat noodles for a healthier version.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work best. For a quicker option, you could use rotisserie chicken or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian choice.
Thai Basil: This herb is the star of the dish! Its peppery flavor is unique. If it’s hard to find, substitute with regular basil, but know the flavor may change a bit.
Sauces: Soy sauce gives great umami. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead. For the oyster sauce, try a vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms if needed.
How Do I Make Sure My Noodles Aren’t Soggy?
Cooking noodles perfectly is key for Thai Basil Chicken Noodles. Here’s how to get it right:
- **Cook Al Dente**: Follow package directions but stop cooking a minute early. The noodles will continue to cook when added to the hot pan.
- **Rinse in Cold Water**: After draining, rinse your noodles under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps keep them separate.
- **Toss with Oil**: Toss the noodles with a little oil before adding them to the stir-fry. This keeps them from sticking together while cooking.
Try to toss everything gently in the pan; it’s okay if some of the noodles clump, just keep stirring until they break apart. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Thai Basil Chicken Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz flat rice noodles (e.g., pad thai noodles)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, sliced (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves, loosely packed (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 green onions, sliced on the diagonal
- Optional: 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers or other preferred veggies
Time Needed:
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time soaking and cooking the noodles, stir-frying the chicken and veggies, and mixing everything together for a flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles:
Start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Make sure not to overcook them! Drain the noodles and set them aside to get ready for the stir-fry.
2. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. This high heat is key for a good stir-fry!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced red chili to the hot oil. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Next, toss in the sliced chicken. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. It’s important to cook the chicken well to ensure it’s safe to eat!
5. Add the Sauces:
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix everything together so that the chicken is well coated in the sauce.
6. Combine Noodles:
Add the cooked rice noodles to the skillet along with the chicken broth or water. Toss everything gently to combine and warm through, ensuring the noodles soak up all those delicious flavors!
7. Finish with Veggies and Herbs:
Now, add the sliced green onions, Thai basil leaves, and any optional veggies if you’re using them. Stir-fry for about another minute until the basil is wilted and everything is mixed well.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and serve the noodles hot. Garnish your dish with extra Thai basil leaves for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious homemade Thai Basil Chicken Noodles!
This dish beautifully combines smoky grilled chicken flavor, aromatic Thai basil, and savory sauces over comforting rice noodles. It’s a wonderful meal full of vibrant colors and tastes!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp cooks quickly while beef may take a bit longer to get tender.
What If I Can’t Find Thai Basil?
If Thai basil is unavailable, you can substitute it with regular basil or even mint. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still provide a nice aroma and taste to the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. Make sure to check that your oyster sauce is also gluten-free or find a vegan alternative.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen it up.
