If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors, a touch of crunch, and fresh herbal brightness, you are going to love this Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Recipe. With juicy ground chicken mingling beautifully with aromatic garlic and ginger, crunchy cashews, vibrant bell peppers, and that signature hit of Thai basil, it’s a meal that feels like an exciting flavor party with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this recipe brings together simple ingredients with unmistakable Thai flair to create a dish that’s both comforting and lively.

Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Recipe right means choosing fresh, vibrant ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Each component adds an essential layer of flavor, texture, or color, making the cooking process straightforward yet incredibly rewarding.

500g ground chicken or pork: A tender and juicy protein base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
4cm x 4cm piece fresh ginger, grated: Adds warmth and a subtle zing, refreshing every bite.
6 garlic cloves, grated: Infuses the dish with savory depth and irresistible aroma.
1 brown onion, diced: Provides sweetness and texture as it softens during cooking.
1 large red bell pepper, sliced: Brings vibrant color and a mild crunch to the dish.
100g green beans, cut into 2cm pieces: Adds fresh crispness and a pop of green for balance.
100g cashews: Delivers toasty crunch and richness that elevates the texture profile.
60ml cooking oil (avocado oil recommended): A healthy, neutral oil that helps sear the proteins and aromatics evenly.
1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, roughly torn: The star herb with its unique, slightly peppery fragrance that defines this recipe.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors into perfect harmony.
1 tablespoon hot chili sauce (or 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce for milder flavor): Adds a spicy kick or gentle sweetness, depending on your preference.
3 tablespoons gluten-free kecap manis (sweet soy sauce): Contributes a luscious, caramel-like sweetness and depth.
1 tablespoon gluten-free fish sauce: Provides authentic umami flavor and salty balance.
60ml fresh lime juice: Brightens the dish with refreshing acidity and a citrusy punch.
1 tablespoon gluten-free chicken powdered stock/broth: Enhances the savory backbone and rounds out the sauce.

How to Make Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Mince

Begin by heating your preferred cooking oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken or pork, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 6 minutes. This step ensures your meat is perfectly juicy and ready to soak up the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the meat is cooking, mix the chili sauce (or sweet chili sauce), kecap manis, fish sauce, fresh lime juice, and chicken powdered stock together in a small bowl. Whisking these ingredients now will make the sauce smooth and ready to pour into your stir-fry without missing a beat.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Vegetables

Season the cooked mince with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of sea salt to taste. Toss in the grated ginger, garlic, and diced onion, stirring rapidly for about one minute until everything becomes fragrant. Then, add your sliced red bell pepper, green beans, and crunchy cashews. Keep stir-frying for roughly 3 minutes so the vegetables stay crisp yet tender, blending beautifully with the meat.

Step 4: Add Sauce

Pour the freshly prepared sauce mixture over the contents in your wok or pan. Turn the heat up to high and bring everything to a boil. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken as you stir-fry for 4 minutes, ensuring every ingredient is coated with that irresistible, sticky glaze laden with sweet, spicy, and umami flavors.

Step 5: Add Basil and Serve

Once your sauce is glossy and thickened, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the torn Thai basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil just enough to release those wonderful aromatic oils without losing its freshness. Serve immediately, ideally alongside fragrant steamed rice, and for an extra special touch, top with a crispy fried egg and a squirt of fresh lime juice.

How to Serve Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Add finishing touches like chopped fresh coriander, extra torn Thai basil, or a scattering of toasted cashews. These simple garnishes boost the dish’s look and add layers of fresh, nutty, and herbal notes that your guests will adore.

Side Dishes

This Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Recipe shines alongside steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice, which soak up the flavorful sauce perfectly. A light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables also bring crispness and balance, making for a refreshing complement to the rich, saucy chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry in lettuce cups or on a bed of coconut rice to elevate presentation and add further texture. You can even turn leftovers into a vibrant rice paper roll filling, wrapping all those amazing flavors into handheld bites perfect for snacking or entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making the second-day meal just as delicious, if not better!

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish longer, it freezes well in a sealed container for up to one month. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing and label it to enjoy a quick, tasty meal anytime you need.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warmth. Add a dash of water or a splash of lime juice when reheating to keep the dish moist and fresh-tasting.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of cashews?

Absolutely! While cashews are traditional and add a creamy crunch, you can experiment with peanuts or almonds for different textures and flavors. Just toast them lightly for the best result.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and swap fish sauce for tamari or soy sauce to keep the umami depth. Adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain texture.

What can I do if I don’t have Thai basil?

If Thai basil is unavailable, you can use sweet basil, though the flavor will be milder and less peppery. Adding a small amount of fresh mint can also bring a refreshing element closer to the original taste.

How spicy is this dish and can I adjust it?

The heat level depends on your choice of chili sauce; hot chili sauce will deliver a noticeable kick, while sweet chili sauce keeps it mild and approachable. Feel free to add more or less according to your preference.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients like chopping vegetables and mixing the sauce ahead, but it’s best to cook and toss everything together just before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say that this Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Recipe has earned a permanent spot in my go-to dinner repertoire. Its blend of fresh herbs, crunchy cashews, and perfectly balanced sauce never fails to impress and deliver comfort on a plate. I encourage you to give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every vibrant, delicious bite that captures the heart of Thai cooking.