
why make this recipe
Thai Basil Spicy Fried Rice is a flavorful and easy dish that can be made quickly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without too much fuss. The combination of jasmine rice, fresh vegetables, and spicy sauces gives it a unique taste that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—you can easily make it vegetarian or adjust the spice level to what you like best.
how to make Thai Basil Spicy Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 cup chicken, diced (or tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
Directions:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sauté until translucent.
- Add diced chicken (or tofu) and cook until browned.
- Stir in bell pepper and carrot, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add the cooked jasmine rice and mix well.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili sauce; stir to combine.
- Add Thai basil leaves and toss everything together until the basil is wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
how to serve Thai Basil Spicy Fried Rice
Serve the Thai Basil Spicy Fried Rice hot, right from the skillet. Place lime wedges on the side for added flavor. You can serve it as a main dish or as a side alongside other Thai dishes.
how to store Thai Basil Spicy Fried Rice
If you have leftovers, let the rice cool and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or microwave until hot.
tips to make Thai Basil Spicy Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice for the best texture; it’s less sticky and fries up better.
- Adjust the chili sauce according to your spice preference.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you like, such as peas or corn.
- For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting chicken with tofu or omitting it altogether. This recipe is also great with shrimp or beef if you prefer a different protein.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice?
While jasmine rice is traditional for Thai fried rice, you can use any long-grain rice. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before frying.
Is Thai basil necessary for this recipe?
Thai basil adds a unique flavor, but if you can’t find it, you can use regular basil or substitute it with cilantro for a different taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Thai Basil Spicy Fried Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 cup chicken, diced or tofu for a vegetarian option
Sauces and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili sauce adjust to taste
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sauté until translucent.
- Add diced chicken (or tofu) and cook until browned.
- Stir in bell pepper and carrot, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add the cooked jasmine rice and mix well.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili sauce; stir to combine.
- Add Thai basil leaves and toss everything together until the basil is wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.