Origins
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, also known as Pad Krapow Gai, is a popular dish that originates from Thailand. It is a staple in Thai cuisine and is commonly enjoyed as a quick and flavorful street food. The dish is known for its bold and aromatic flavors, combining the heat of chili peppers with the freshness of Thai basil. Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a perfect representation of the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of Thailand.
Benefits Summary
This Spicy Thai Basil Chicken recipe offers a delicious and nutritious option for those following a ketogenic diet. It is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein. The dish incorporates lean chicken breast, which is a great source of high-quality protein. The addition of fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions, provides essential vitamins and minerals. The spicy chili peppers not only add a kick of flavor but also contain capsaicin, which has been shown to have potential health benefits, including boosting metabolism and reducing inflammation. Overall, this dish is a satisfying and flavorful choice for a ketogenic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 Thai chili peppers, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free option)
– 1 teaspoon erythritol or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
1. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sliced Thai chili peppers to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced chicken breasts to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Push the chicken to one side of the pan and add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, and erythritol. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the pan.
6. Stir everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves until wilted.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the Spicy Thai Basil Chicken immediately and enjoy the bold and aromatic flavors.
Pairing Suggestions:
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Serve it over cauliflower rice for a complete ketogenic meal. For added freshness, serve with a side of cucumber salad or a bowl of zucchini noodles. To cool down the heat, a side of coconut milk-based soup, such as Tom Kha Gai, would be a perfect complement.
Nutritional Values:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Shopping List:
| Ingredient | Quantity/Size |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 |
| Coconut oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Thai chili peppers | 2 |
| Red bell pepper | 1 |
| Yellow bell pepper | 1 |
| Onion | 1 small |
| Thai basil leaves | 1 cup |
| Fish sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce or tamari | 1 tablespoon |
| Erythritol or keto-friendly sweetener | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Special Tip:
For a seasonal twist, you can add some thinly sliced seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or snow peas, to the dish. This will not only add more texture and flavor but also make the dish more colorful and visually appealing.
Summary
Indulge in the bold and aromatic flavors of Spicy Thai Basil Chicken, a delicious and ketogenic-friendly dinner option. This dish combines tender slices of chicken with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and Thai basil, all sautéed in a flavorful sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a satisfying and low-carb meal that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Thailand.
