Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls with Peanut Chili Sauce

Lora Lopez

Posted on July 12, 2025

Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls with Peanut Chili Sauce

Looking for a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Thailand to your table? Look no further than these Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls with Peanut Chili Sauce. This recipe encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, featuring tender chicken thighs stir-fried with aromatic garlic, fresh Thai basil, and a spicy kick from bird’s eye chilies. To elevate this dish even further, we drizzle it with a creamy peanut chili sauce that perfectly balances the savory notes of the chicken. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Join me on this culinary journey, as we explore how to make these delicious rice bowls from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls with Peanut Chili Sauce are not just another weeknight dinner; they are a celebration of bold flavors and comforting ingredients. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of Thai basil, garlic, and spicy chilies creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes your taste buds. The peanut chili sauce adds a creamy texture and nutty taste that complements the dish perfectly.
Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time!
Customizable: Whether you like it mild or spicy, you can easily adjust the amount of chilies in the recipe. You can also swap chicken for tofu or shrimp if you prefer a different protein.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the peanut butter, these bowls are not only delicious but also nutritious. Serve with a side of fresh veggies for added fiber.
Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well, making them a great choice for meal prep. Prepare a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week for a quick lunch or dinner option!

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re on the fence about trying out this Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls with Peanut Chili Sauce recipe, let me give you a few compelling reasons to dive in:

Authentic Thai Flavors: This dish is a delightful homage to Thai street food, combining fresh herbs, savory sauces, and a touch of heat that is characteristic of authentic Thai cuisine.
Family-Friendly: The flavors are approachable and mild enough for kids while still being exciting for adults. It’s a great way to introduce your family to new cuisines.
One-Pan Wonder: With only one skillet needed for cooking the chicken, and a simple bowl for the sauce, cleanup is a breeze. Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal!
Versatile Serving Options: These bowls can be enjoyed on their own or paired with fresh vegetables, salad, or even in a wrap. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with a dish that looks as good as it tastes. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a centerpiece on any dinner table.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients for Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls

For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
For the Peanut Chili Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin)
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust for spice preference)
- Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish

Recommended Tools or Utensils

Large skillet or frying pan
Small mixing bowl for the sauce
Whisk or fork for mixing the sauce
Knife and cutting board for slicing chicken and vegetables
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving bowls for plating

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the cooking process for these incredible Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls with Peanut Chili Sauce.

Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sliced chilies, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step releases the aromatic flavors of the garlic and chilies, creating a wonderful base for your chicken.
Cook the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly by stirring to avoid any pieces sticking to the pan.
Add Sauces: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken. The sugar will help caramelize the chicken, adding a beautiful glaze.
Add Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves. Allow them to wilt in the residual heat, which will enhance their flavor without overcooking them.
Make the Peanut Chili Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and chili paste. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and pourable, perfect for drizzling.
Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, place a generous scoop of jasmine rice. Top with the Thai basil chicken and drizzle with the peanut chili sauce. This layering not only looks appealing but also allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful crunch.
Serve: Enjoy your Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls with Peanut Chili Sauce warm and savor the delicious combination of flavors. Don’t forget to share this delightful meal with friends and family!

FAQs

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

You can easily substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even beef based on your preference. Each protein will bring a unique flavor to the dish.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The peanut chili sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to make sure it’s well mixed.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! These bowls can be made in advance and stored in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, making them perfect for meal prep.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the spice level, add extra bird’s eye chilies or a dash of chili flakes to the chicken while cooking. You can also increase the chili paste in the peanut sauce.

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it may require a longer cooking time.

Conclusion

In summary, the Thai Basil Chicken Rice Bowls with Peanut Chili Sauce are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand right to your kitchen. With tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and a creamy peanut sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below, and feel free to share this recipe with friends and family! For more delicious recipes, check out our Pinterest page and explore similar meals like Thai Chicken Rice Bowls with Coconut Lime Sauce or Crispy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Sweet Chili Dip. Enjoy your cooking!