Thai Basil Chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish that is commonly found in Thai cuisine. One cup (212 g) of this delicious dish contains around 250 calories, making it a great option for those who want to indulge without overdoing it.

Thai Basil Chicken is made with boneless chicken, fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs such as basil, garlic and chili. This dish is rich in nutrients and can be easily customized to fit your dietary preferences. It is a perfect combination of spicy, sweet, tangy and savory flavors, making it a popular choice among food enthusiasts.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the nutritional value of Thai Basil Chicken, its health benefits, the recipe and some tips for making it healthier. Whether you are a fan of Thai food or just looking for a new dish to try, this article has got you covered.

Calories in Thai Basil Chicken

As mentioned earlier, one cup (212 g) of Thai Basil Chicken contains around 250 calories. The exact calorie count may vary depending on the ingredients used and the cooking method. If you are watching your calorie intake, it is recommended to pair this dish with a low-calorie side such as steamed vegetables or a side salad. This will help you create a balanced and satisfying meal without going over your daily calorie limit.

Protein Content

Thai Basil Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. One cup (212 g) of this dish contains around 30 grams of protein, making it a great post-workout meal or a protein-rich dinner option. The protein content may vary depending on the type and amount of chicken used in the recipe. To boost the protein content, you can add more chicken or substitute it with tofu or other plant-based protein sources.

Carbohydrate Content

Thai Basil Chicken is a low-carb dish that is suitable for those who follow a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet. One cup (212 g) of this dish contains around 2 grams of carbohydrates, making it a great option for those who want to limit their carbohydrate intake. The carbohydrate content may vary depending on the vegetables and sauces used in the recipe. To reduce the carbohydrate content, you can substitute high-carb vegetables such as carrots and bell peppers with low-carb vegetables such as zucchini and mushrooms.

Fat Content

Thai Basil Chicken is a low-fat dish that can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of heart disease. One cup (212 g) of this dish contains around 10 grams of fat, most of which come from the chicken and vegetable oil used in the recipe. To reduce the fat content, you can use leaner cuts of chicken or substitute it with tofu or other plant-based protein sources. You can also use less oil or substitute it with coconut oil, which is a healthier source of fat.

Calorie Breakdown

The calorie breakdown of Thai Basil Chicken depends on the specific ingredients and cooking method used. However, a typical recipe contains around 35% protein, 37% fat and 28% carbohydrates. You can adjust the calorie breakdown according to your dietary needs and goals. For example, if you are trying to lose weight, you can reduce the fat content and increase the protein content to create a more balanced and healthy meal.

Vitamins and Minerals

Thai Basil Chicken is rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. It contains vitamins A, C and K, as well as minerals such as potassium, calcium and iron. These nutrients can help boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, support bone health and regulate blood pressure. Adding more vegetables to the recipe can further enhance its nutritional value and provide a wider range of nutrients.

Health Benefits of Thai Basil Chicken

Thai Basil Chicken offers a wide range of health benefits, thanks to its nutrient-dense ingredients and flavorful spices. Some of the potential benefits include:

• Weight management: As mentioned earlier, Thai Basil Chicken is a low-calorie and low-fat dish that can help you maintain a healthy weight.
• Improved digestion: The herbs and spices used in the recipe can stimulate digestion and reduce bloating and indigestion.
• Reduced inflammation: Basil and chili peppers contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation and pain in the body.
• Cardiovascular health: The lean protein and healthy fats in the dish can help reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your cholesterol levels.

Thai Basil Chicken Recipe

To make Thai Basil Chicken, you will need the following ingredients: boneless chicken, garlic, onion, bell pepper, basil leaves, chili pepper, fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, vegetable oil and brown sugar. Here is a step-by-step guide to prepare this delicious dish:

1. Thinly slice the chicken and set it aside.
2. Heat a wok or a large frying pan over high heat and add the vegetable oil.
3. Add minced garlic and onion to the heated pan and stir-fry until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced chicken to the pan and stir-fry until it is almost cooked.
5. Add chopped bell pepper and chili pepper to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Add fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce and brown sugar to the pan and stir-fry until the sauce thickens.
7. Add fresh basil leaves to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
8. Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for a Healthier Thai Basil Chicken

Here are some tips to make Thai Basil Chicken even healthier and more nutritious:

• Use leaner cuts of chicken or substitute it with tofu or other plant-based protein sources.
• Use less oil or substitute it with coconut oil, which is a healthier source of fat.
• Substitute high-carb vegetables such as carrots and bell peppers with low-carb vegetables such as zucchini and mushrooms to reduce the carbohydrate content.
• Add more vegetables to the recipe to increase its nutritional value and provide a wider range of nutrients.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Alternatives to Thai Basil Chicken

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Thai Basil Chicken or want to try something new, here are some alternative dishes that you might like:

• Pad Thai: A classic Thai dish made with rice noodles, meat or shrimp, eggs, peanuts, bean sprouts and a tangy tamarind sauce.
• Tom Kha Gai: A flavorful and creamy soup made with chicken, coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime leaves.
• Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet and refreshing dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mangoes and coconut milk.