Thai Basil Chicken Noodles are a fun and tasty dish! It features tender chicken, fresh basil, and stir-fried noodles all mixed in a yummy sauce that makes your taste buds happy.
Making this dish is like a mini cooking adventure. I love how quick it comes together—it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Noodles: These are essential for texture. If you can’t find rice noodles, you can use other types of noodles, like egg noodles or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time so they stay al dente.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. You can swap in chicken thighs for a juicier option. For a vegetarian alternative, try tofu or tempeh—just ensure they are well pressed and cubed.
Thai Basil: The star of this recipe! If Thai basil is unavailable, sweet basil works too, but you’ll miss that unique flavor. You could also use cilantro or mint for a different twist.
Chili Peppers: Adjust the number based on your spice preference. If you want less heat, use bell peppers or omit them completely. Sriracha sauce can also be added for a spicy kick.
How Do I Get the Noodles Just Right?
Cooking noodles properly is key to this recipe. Here are some tips:
- Follow package instructions carefully—don’t overcook! They should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- After draining, rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Try to toss them with a little oil before adding to the stir-fry to help them separate.
Getting the noodles right will ensure they absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce and other ingredients!
How to Make Thai Basil Chicken Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz rice noodles (about 1/4 inch wide)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
For the Flavor:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 large handful fresh Thai basil leaves (or sweet basil if unavailable)
- 3 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional for extra brightness)
For Garnishing:
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes on preparation (slicing chicken and veggies) and another 10 minutes cooking! It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Once they are ready, drain them and set them aside. Rinse under cold water to prevent sticking if desired.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice (if you’re using it). Mix well and set the sauce aside to let the flavors blend.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, sliced red chilies, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry everything for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep an eye on it to prevent the garlic from burning!
5. Combine Chicken and Noodles:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Then add the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together until well coated and combined. You want every bite to be flavorful!
6. Add Basil and Green Onions:
Add the fresh basil leaves and the green parts of the green onions to the skillet. Stir gently just until the basil wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This step adds that fresh aroma we all love!
7. Serve It Up:
Once everything is mixed well, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Thai Basil Chicken Noodles to plates or bowls. If desired, garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a bit of crunch.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s hot and savor the delicious flavors of your homemade Thai Basil Chicken Noodles!
Can I Use Different Noodles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rice noodles are traditional for this dish, you can substitute them with other types like egg noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t become mushy.
What Can I Substitute for Thai Basil?
If you can’t find Thai basil, sweet basil works in a pinch—though it has a slightly different flavor. Other herbs like cilantro or mint can also provide a fresh taste, but they’ll change the overall flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth or additional soy sauce instead of fish sauce. It will still be packed with flavor and delicious!