Thai Basil Chicken Noodles are a tasty one-pan meal featuring chicken, fresh basil, and colorful veggies. The combination of simple ingredients makes this dish full of flavor and fun!
Making this dish is a breeze! I love how the basil adds a sweet twist. Serve it with extra lime juice for a zingy finish. You’ll keep wanting more of this yummy combo! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flat Rice Noodles: These are key for the right texture. If unavailable, you can use spaghetti or another noodle shape, but cooking times may vary. I love using fresh noodles when I can find them!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is perfect for quick cooking. You can swap it with tofu for a vegetarian option or use ground chicken for a different texture.
Thai Basil: Fresh Thai basil gives this dish its unique crowd-pleasing aroma and flavor. If you can’t find it, sweet basil works as a substitute, though the flavor will be milder.
Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms add a wonderful umami flavor. If you can’t find them, feel free to use button or oyster mushrooms instead, which are more common.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the dish. You can use hoisin sauce or a vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms as a substitute for a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Noodles?
Cooking noodles just right is essential for this dish. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and lose the texture needed. Here’s how to get them perfect:
- Follow the package instructions closely. Cook until they are al dente, which means they should retain a slight firmness.
- After cooking, drain and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents stickiness.
- Add a little oil to separate the noodles if you’re not using them right away.
Taking these steps will leave you with beautifully cooked noodles to soak up all the flavors in your Thai Basil Chicken Noodles! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🌿
Thai Basil Chicken Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Noodles & Protein:
- 8 oz flat rice noodles (wide noodles)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly
Vegetables & Seasonings:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (or sweet basil if unavailable)
Sauces:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
For Serving:
- Fresh lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious meal option perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles:
Start by cooking the flat rice noodles according to the package instructions. You want them to be just tender. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop them from cooking further. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. This will be the tasty sauce that brings everything together!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Veggies:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, the white parts of the green onions, and the sliced onion. Stir-fry for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Now it’s time to add the colorful veggies!
5. Add the Pepper and Mushrooms:
Add the sliced bell pepper and shiitake mushrooms to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. This will enhance their flavors and make the dish vibrant!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and then add the drained noodles. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the entire dish. Toss everything together quickly to ensure all the ingredients are well combined and heated through for about 2-3 minutes.
7. Finish with Fresh Basil:
Stir in the fresh basil leaves and the green parts of the green onions. Mix everything until the basil wilts—it will add a delightful freshness to your dish.
8. Serve:
Scoop the Thai Basil Chicken Noodles into bowls or plates. For an extra touch, garnish with any remaining basil and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Now you’re ready to dive into your flavorful Thai Basil Chicken Noodles—a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and fresh tastes that will have everyone wanting seconds! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While flat rice noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with spaghetti or any other noodle of your choice. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time to allow for the tofu or tempeh to brown nicely.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Use Instead of Thai Basil?
If Thai basil isn’t available, sweet basil can be a good substitute, although it has a milder flavor. You can also try using a mix of mint and regular basil for a fresh twist.