Introduction
Discover a savory delight with this easy chicken stir-fry featuring wide rice noodles and fragrant Thai basil. This dish marries the richness of oyster sauce with the fresh flavors of garlic, chilies, and basil, creating a meal that is both satisfying and full of flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Noodles:
7 oz (200g) dried wide rice noodles
For the Stir-Fry:
2 tablespoons oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola)
3 large cloves of garlic, minced
2 bird’s eye chilies or Thai chilies, deseeded and finely chopped
1/2 onion, sliced
7 oz (200g) chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (breast is also acceptable)
2 teaspoons fish sauce (or soy sauce)
2 green onions, cut into 3 cm (2-inch) pieces
1 cup Thai or Thai Holy Basil leaves (substitute with regular basil if unavailable)
For the Sauce:
3 tablespoons oyster sauce
1.5 tablespoons light soy sauce
1.5 tablespoons dark soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon water
Prep Time
Preparation for this dish takes about 10-15 minutes, ensuring that all ingredients are prepped and ready for a quick stir-frying process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time is approximately 10 minutes, bringing the total time to around 25 minutes. This recipe yields 2-3 servings, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Noodles
Cook the dried rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are tender. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and set the sauce aside.
Heat the Oil
In a wok or large heavy-based skillet, heat the oil over high heat until it is shimmering.
Sauté Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies to the hot oil, cooking for about 10 seconds until fragrant.
Add Onion
Incorporate the sliced onion into the wok and cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally until slightly softened.
Cook Chicken
Add the chicken pieces and fish sauce to the wok. Fry the chicken for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the prepared noodles, green onions, and the mixed sauce to the wok. Cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed and reduces slightly.
Add Basil
Remove the wok from heat and immediately add the Thai basil leaves. Toss the mixture until the basil is just wilted and fragrant.
Serve
Serve the dish immediately while hot, ensuring that each bowl is generously garnished with the stir-fry ingredients.
Notes
Alternative Protein
You may substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast if preferred.
Basil Substitution
If Thai basil is not available, regular basil can be used as a substitute.
Adjusting Spice Level
For a milder taste, reduce the number of chilies or deseed them before chopping. For extra heat, consider adding additional chilies or using chili flakes.
Cook Techniques
Preparing Dried Rice Noodles
To prepare dried rice noodles, soak them in hot water or boil them according to the package instructions until they are tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Mixing the Sauce
Combine the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and water in a small bowl. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
Heating Oil
Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until it shimmers. This ensures an effective stir-frying process, giving the dish a nice sear.
Sautéing Aromatics
Add minced garlic and chopped chilies to the hot oil, cooking for about 10 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This technique extracts flavors that will infuse the dish.
Cooking Chicken
Add chicken pieces and fish sauce to the wok. Stir-fry for approximately 2 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned, ensuring even cooking.
Combining Noodles and Sauce
To combine, add the pre-cooked noodles, green onions, and prepared sauce to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute, allowing the sauce to evenly coat the noodles while reducing slightly.
Adding Basil
Remove the wok from heat and immediately toss in the basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil without losing its vibrant flavor.
FAQ
Can I substitute rice noodles with other types of noodles?
Yes, you can use other types of noodles, but the texture and cooking time may vary. Adjust cooking according to the type you choose.
What if I can’t find Thai basil?
You can substitute Thai basil with regular basil; however, the flavor will be different, as Thai basil has a distinctive taste.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it can be prepared ahead, it’s best to serve immediately after cooking for optimal flavor and texture. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated.
How can I make it spicier?
To increase the heat, add more bird’s eye chilies or add a dash of chili paste or hot sauce in the sauce mixture.
Conclusion
This delicious stir-fried noodle dish captures the essence of Thai flavors with its aromatic garlic, fiery chilies, and fragrant basil. The combination of chicken and rice noodles coated in a rich sauce creates a satisfying meal that is quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy this recipe any day of the week for an authentic taste of Thai cuisine!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Stir-Fry Noodles
Swap the chicken for your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for a delightful vegetarian meal.
Shrimp Pad See Ew
Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist, maintaining the same cooking method and sauce for a Pad See Ew-inspired dish.
Tofu and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
Use firm tofu instead of chicken thighs, and include bok choy for a nutritious, meat-free option.
Spicy Beef Noodles
Substitute chicken with thinly sliced beef and add extra chili for a spicier flavor profile.
Coconut Curry Noodles
Incorporate coconut milk into the sauce and add curry powder for a creamy, rich noodle dish with a hint of Thai curry flavor.
Peanut Butter Chicken Noodles
Mix in a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
