Ingredients
- 2 cups of flavorful chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of freshly minced ginger, split into portions
- A generous tablespoon of roughly chopped cilantro stems
- A single clove of garlic, gently crushed
- Fragrant 2 whole star anise pods
- 1 ½ cups of water for the base
- A pinch of salt, about ½ teaspoon
- 1 cup of aromatic jasmine rice
- 1 pound of thinly sliced, tender chicken thighs
- A touch of heat with 1 teaspoon of Thai red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon of peanut oil for cooking
- 3 small Thai bird chiles, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped shallot
- A clove of garlic, minced finely
- 4 heads of delicate baby bok choy, chopped
- 4 shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch for thickening
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce for depth of flavor
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce for seasoning
- A hint of sweetness with ½ teaspoon of brown sugar
- The zing of a fresh lime
- ½ cup of freshly chopped cilantro for brightness
- 6 leaves of Thai basil, chopped for a touch of herbal aroma
Step 1
In a small saucepan, blend chicken broth with a tablespoon of ginger, cilantro stems, crushed garlic, and star anise pods. Let the mixture come to a boil before lowering the heat to a gentle simmer.
Step 2
In another saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil, then mix in jasmine rice. Reduce the heat, cover, and let the rice soak up the liquid for approximately 15 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 3
Coat chicken thighs with curry paste for a flavor boost.
Step 4
In a wok or large skillet, heat peanut oil until it shimmers. Add the rest of the ginger, chiles, shallot, and minced garlic, cooking until they start to caramelize and soften, usually around 2 to 3 minutes. Toss in the chicken, cooking until it turns opaque, around 3 to 4 minutes. Introduce bok choy and shiitake mushrooms, cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 5
In a bowl, whisk together a cup of the chicken broth mixture with cornstarch.
Step 6
Now pour the cornstarch mixture into the wok. Season with fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Let it simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens, for about 1 to 2 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, adjust by adding more chicken broth. Squeeze in lime juice for a zesty finish.
Step 7
Present the chicken atop the cooked rice, adorned with fresh cilantro and Thai basil for a delightful touch.
Extra Tips & Suggestions
- 1. Keep your pantry stocked with essential Thai ingredients like fish sauce, soy sauce, and red curry paste for easy access when you want to whip up a quick and delicious Thai stir-fry.
- 2. Invest in a good-quality wok or skillet to ensure that your stir-fry cooks evenly and develops that signature smoky flavor.






