Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors and vibrant aromas, and our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken recipe captures that essence perfectly. This dish combines tender chicken with a fragrant garlic sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet, making it a favorite in Thai households and beyond.
We love how simple ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar come together to create a mouthwatering meal that’s quick to prepare yet packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or looking to add a reliable recipe to your collection, this garlic chicken will become a go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s authentically Thai and irresistibly delicious, bringing a taste of Thailand right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken, we focus on fresh quality ingredients that bring out the signature bold and vibrant flavors. Below is a detailed breakdown of all components you’ll need to craft this delicious dish.
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8-10 cloves garlic, finely minced for that punch of flavor
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or any neutral oil for frying
Marinade Ingredients
Our marinade is simple yet essential to infuse the chicken with deep savory notes.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons | Use light soy sauce for authentic taste |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tablespoons | Adds richness and umami |
| White pepper powder | ¼ teaspoon | Enhances warmth without overwhelming |
| Brown sugar | 1 tablespoon | Balances saltiness with subtle sweetness |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon | Helps tenderize and creates a slight crust |
Sauce Ingredients
The sauce blends the fundamental Thai flavors of salty, sweet, and aromatic garlic.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons | Adds saltiness |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon | Deepens umami layer |
| Fish sauce | 1 teaspoon | Classic Thai seasoning for authenticity |
| Granulated sugar | 1 tablespoon | Balances savory notes |
| Water or chicken broth | ¼ cup | Creates saucy consistency |
Garnishes and Optional Toppings
Finish our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken with these fresh and flavorful accents:
- Fresh green onions, thinly sliced
- Crispy fried garlic for extra crunch and aroma
- Red chili flakes or sliced fresh chili to add heat (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for brightness and fragrance
Using these ingredients ensures that every bite captures the essence of traditional Thai cuisine, bringing a perfect balance of garlic-rich savory goodness.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken Recipe perfectly, having the right equipment streamlines the process and enhances the cooking experience. Here’s a clear breakdown of the essential tools we’ll need:
- Wok or Large Skillet: We use a wok or large skillet for quick, even cooking and to develop that signature sear on the chicken that locks in juicy flavors.
- Mixing Bowls: Several mixing bowls come in handy for marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce separately to keep flavors vibrant.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements of ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar ensure consistent flavor balance.
- Garlic Press or Mince Knife: Fresh garlic is crucial in this recipe. A garlic press or a sharp knife makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
- Tongs or Spatula: For turning the chicken pieces efficiently without breaking the meat, helping to maintain optimal texture.
- Whisk: To blend the sauce ingredients smoothly, creating a perfectly emulsified glaze.
- Serving Platter or Large Plate: For garnishing and serving our dish beautifully.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wok or Large Skillet | Fast, even cooking and searing |
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating and mixing sauces |
| Measuring Spoons/Cups | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Garlic Press/Knife | Efficiently mince fresh garlic |
| Tongs or Spatula | Safely handle chicken during cooking |
| Whisk | Smoothly blend and emulsify sauces |
| Serving Platter | Present finished dish attractively |
Pro Tip: Using a cast iron skillet can also work well if a wok is unavailable, as it retains heat evenly for a nice sear.
Having this equipment ready before we start cooking ensures a smooth workflow and helps us deliver the authentic bold flavors that make this Thai Garlic Chicken irresistible.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken with bold flavors and a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Prep Work
- Trim excess fat from 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince 8 cloves of fresh garlic finely using a garlic press or knife.
- Chop green onions and cilantro for garnish.
- Measure all marinade and sauce ingredients accurately for best flavor results.
| Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | Trimmed and cut in pieces |
| Garlic | Minced |
| Green onions | Sliced |
| Cilantro | Chopped |
Marinating the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add half of the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown, about 30 seconds.
Be careful not to burn the garlic. - Add the marinated chicken to the wok in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir-fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes until cooked through and lightly caramelized on all sides.
- Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside, leaving garlic-infused oil in the pan.
Preparing the Garlic Sauce
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- Pour the sauce mixture into the wok with the remaining minced garlic.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Allow the sauce to thicken lightly, about 1-2 minutes.
Combining and Finishing the Dish
- Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the sauce.
- Toss well to coat each piece evenly in the savory garlic sauce.
- Cook together for an additional 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld perfectly.
- Transfer the chicken to a serving platter.
- Garnish generously with sliced green onions, crispy fried garlic, red chili flakes (optional), and fresh cilantro.
“The aroma of garlic combined with the balanced sauce layers makes this Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken a standout dish for any occasion.“
Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice to experience the rich and vibrant flavors in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken, we recommend pairing it with accompaniments that complement its rich garlic aroma and savory-sweet sauce. Follow these steps to create a well-rounded meal experience:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice
Serve the dish over fluffy steamed jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce and balances the bold garlic notes.
- Fresh Vegetable Sides
Add crisp textures and freshness with sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or a simple Thai-style papaya salad (Som Tum). These sides provide a refreshing contrast.
- Herb Garnishes
Sprinkle extra fresh cilantro and thinly sliced green onions on top just before serving. Their bright flavors uplift the dish.
- Spicy Kick
Offer Thai bird’s eye chilies or crushed red chili flakes on the side for those who enjoy added heat. This allows customization of spice levels.
- Additional Sauces
Present a small dish of lime wedges and a tangy dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar to enhance the savory layers.
| Serving Component | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | Absorbs sauce and balances flavors | Use freshly steamed for best taste |
| Fresh Vegetables | Adds texture and freshness | Choose cucumbers, carrots, or Som Tum |
| Fresh Cilantro & Onions | For bright, herbal notes | Sprinkle just before serving |
| Red Chili Flakes | Adds customizable heat | Serve on the side for optional use |
| Lime Wedges & Sauce | Enhances savory and tangy elements | Encourage guests to squeeze lime |
By following these Serving Suggestions, we elevate the experience of the Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken and transform it into a vibrant, memorable meal.
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time and maximize flavor when preparing our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken, follow these strategic make-ahead tips for a seamless cooking experience and a dish bursting with vibrant aromas.
Marinate the Chicken in Advance
Marinating is crucial for infusing rich garlic and savory notes deep into the chicken. We recommend marinating the boneless skinless chicken thighs at least 1 hour ahead, but for the best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This process allows the garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar to fully penetrate, tenderizing the meat and enhancing flavor complexity.
| Step | Details | Timeframe | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken marinate | Combine chicken with marinade ingredients | Minimum 1 hour | Refrigerate |
| Best flavor | Marinate chicken overnight | 8-12 hours | Refrigerate |
Prepare Garlic Ahead
Since garlic is the star of our recipe, we suggest mincing fresh garlic in advance and storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. This saves prep time and keeps garlic potent. Use within 24 hours for best aroma and taste.
Make Sauce in Advance
Blend the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar mixture ahead of time and keep it in a sealed jar or bowl. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also allows the sugar to dissolve fully, balancing the flavors. Store refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Tips for Reheating
If preparing the chicken in advance is necessary, cook it fully and store it in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist and prevent the garlic sauce from drying out. Avoid microwave reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
“Marinating ahead and thoughtful prep work are key to unlocking the full depth of flavor in our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken.“
By implementing these make-ahead techniques, we ensure a quick final assembly while preserving the dish’s signature balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic garlic flavors. This approach makes the recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining where flavor cannot be compromised.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating are essential to preserve the vibrant flavors and tender texture of our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken. Follow these guidelines to enjoy the dish fresh even after cooking.
Storing Thai Garlic Chicken
- Cool Down Completely: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation that can lead to sogginess.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the chicken with sauce into an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent odors from other foods seeping in.
- Refrigeration Timeframe: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to keep the chicken safe and flavorful.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Storage Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | 3-4 days | Best for quick access |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe container | Up to 2 months | Defrost overnight before use |
Reheating Instructions
To reheat Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken without compromising its juicy texture and rich flavor, we recommend the following methods:
Stovetop Reheating
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add a small splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
- Gently reheat the chicken pieces, stirring occasionally, until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
- This method preserves the garlic aroma and prevents the chicken from drying out.
Microwave Reheating
- Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Reheat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring gently between each interval.
- Total reheating time should be approximately 2-3 minutes depending on portion size.
- Avoid overheating to prevent rubbery texture.
Oven Reheating
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover tightly with foil.
- Heat for 15-20 minutes or until hot throughout.
- This method is ideal for large batches and helps maintain crispness if garnished with fried garlic.
Key Tips for Best Results
- Reheat only the portion you plan to consume to minimize repeated heat exposure.
- Add a few drops of fresh lime juice or sprinkle fresh cilantro after reheating to revive the bright flavors.
- Avoid overcooking during reheating as garlic can turn bitter and chicken may dry out.
“Proper storage and gentle reheating keep our Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken bursting with its signature bold garlic aroma and savory-sweet sauce.“
By following these practices, we preserve the authentic taste and texture of this beloved Thai dish, making every bite just as delightful as when freshly prepared.
Conclusion
This Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken recipe brings bold flavors and simplicity together in a way that’s perfect for any home kitchen. With just a handful of quality ingredients and straightforward steps, we can create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Whether we’re cooking for family, friends, or just ourselves, this recipe offers a delicious taste of Thailand that’s sure to impress. It’s a versatile meal that fits effortlessly into busy schedules without sacrificing flavor or authenticity. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant, savory goodness that only Thai garlic chicken can deliver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need for Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken?
You need boneless, skinless chicken thighs, garlic, vegetable oil, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, white pepper, cornstarch, water or chicken broth, and garnishes like green onions, fried garlic, chili flakes, and cilantro.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but preferably overnight to enhance the flavor depth.
Can I use a pan instead of a wok to cook this dish?
Yes, a cast iron skillet or large frying pan works well if you don’t have a wok. It retains heat and ensures even cooking.
What’s the best way to serve Authentic Thai Garlic Chicken?
Serve it over steamed jasmine rice with fresh vegetable sides such as sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots. Add garnishes like cilantro and green onions and offer lime wedges and chili flakes for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers properly?
Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months to maintain freshness.
What’s the best method to reheat the chicken?
Reheat gently on the stovetop, in the microwave, or oven. Only reheat the portion you need and add fresh lime juice or cilantro afterward to revive the flavors.
Can I prepare any parts of the recipe ahead of time?
Yes, mince garlic and prepare the sauce ahead. You can also marinate the chicken in advance and cook ahead, reheating gently before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for beginner cooks?
Absolutely! The recipe uses simple ingredients and clear steps, making it easy for novice cooks to prepare delicious Thai garlic chicken.