How to Cook Thai-Style Chicken with Red Chili Paste
If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, cooking Thai-style chicken with red chili paste is a fantastic option. This dish is not only flavorful but also simple to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps you need to follow to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 500g of chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons of Thai red chili paste (Nam Prik Pao)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green for color)
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into thin strips. This allows for even cooking and better absorption of the flavors. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add the Chili Paste and Vegetables
Once the chicken is cooked, add the Thai red chili paste to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the paste. Next, incorporate the sliced bell pepper. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pepper is tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Season the Dish
Pour in the fish sauce and sprinkle the brown sugar over the mixture. Stir everything together to combine the flavors, cooking for another minute to meld the ingredients.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves. Serve your Thai-style chicken with jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for the Best Thai-Style Chicken
- Adjust the level of spiciness by using less red chili paste for a milder flavor, or add more for a hotter dish.
- For added vegetables, consider incorporating carrots, snap peas, or baby corn into the mix.
- Make sure to use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor.
Cooking Thai-style chicken with red chili paste is a perfect way to enjoy a taste of Thailand at home. This dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights while still being a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy your flavorful journey into Thai cuisine!