Craving a chicken dish that’s anything but boring? Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this Spicy Lemongrass Basil Chicken! This recipe uses a fantastic two-step cooking method that guarantees incredibly tender, juicy chicken with a perfect golden-brown sear. We first simmer the chicken with aromatic lemongrass and garlic, infusing it with flavor from the inside out. Then, a quick, high-heat sear locks in the juices and creates a delicious texture. Finished with fresh basil, a hint of tomato, and a fiery blast of chili, this dish is a vibrant explosion of flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients
• Chicken: 2 lbs / 907 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 4 tbsp
• Lemongrass: 3 stalks, white and light green parts only, finely minced
• Red Chili Flakes: 3 tbsp (Note: This is extremely spicy. We recommend starting with 0.5 tbsp and adjusting to your preference.)
• Garlic: 2.5 tbsp minced
• Water: 2 cups / 475 ml
• Red Tomatoes: 0.25 cup, sliced
• Fresh Basil: 0.5 cup, torn or roughly chopped
• Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Directions
2. Prepare the Chicken: Ensure your chicken thighs are fully thawed. Pat them dry and cut them into uniform 1.5-inch (4 cm) cubes.
3. Infuse with Flavor: Place the chicken pieces into a large skillet. Add the minced garlic, minced lemongrass, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Simmer and Reduce: Pour the 2 cups of water over the chicken. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a steady simmer. Allow the chicken to cook, uncovered, until the water has almost completely evaporated. This process infuses the chicken with the aromatics.
5. Set Aside: Once the liquid is gone, remove the tender chicken pieces from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
6. Sear for Texture: Heat the olive oil in a separate large saucepan or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the boiled chicken to the hot oil.
7. Brown the Chicken: Sear the chicken, turning occasionally, until all sides are beautifully golden-brown and have slightly crispy edges.
8. Combine and Finish: Add the sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and red chili flakes to the saucepan with the chicken. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, just until the basil is fragrant and the tomatoes begin to soften.
9. Serve Immediately: Remove from the heat and serve hot, enjoying the incredible aroma and flavor.
Nutritional Information
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 45 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Note: is an estimate per serving and may vary based on and portion sizes.
Pro Tips
• Control the Heat: The recipe calls for a significant amount of chili flakes. For a milder dish, start with ½ tablespoon and add more to taste during the final step. You can always add heat, but you can’t take it away!
• Don’t Skip the Two-Step Cook: Simmering the chicken first makes it incredibly tender and flavorful. The final sear in a hot pan is crucial for creating the delicious, crispy texture that makes this dish special.
• Lemongrass Prep: To prepare lemongrass, peel away the tough, dry outer layers until you reach the tender, pale core. Finely mince only the bottom 3-4 inches (the white and light green parts) for the best flavor and texture.
• Perfect Pairings: This bold chicken is fantastic served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or rice noodles to soak up all the delicious flavors. A side of steamed greens like bok choy or broccoli also works beautifully to balance the heat.
FAQ
Q: Why do you boil the chicken before searing it
A: This recipe uses a two-step method to guarantee tender, flavorful chicken. Simmering the chicken first with lemongrass and garlic infuses it with flavor and makes it incredibly tender. The final high-heat sear locks in the juices and creates a delicious, golden-brown texture.
Q: How spicy is this dish really
A: As written with 3 tablespoons of red chili flakes, this dish is extremely spicy. We strongly recommend starting with just a half tablespoon (0.5 tbsp) and adjusting to your personal heat preference. You can always add more heat at the end.
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs
A: Yes, you can use chicken breast, but boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended because they remain more tender and juicy with this cooking method. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it to prevent it from becoming dry.
Q: What should I serve with Spicy Lemongrass Basil Chicken
A: This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice or rice noodles, which help soak up all the delicious flavors. For a balanced meal, a side of steamed greens like bok choy or broccoli works beautifully.
