The Sizzling Pad Kra Pao Basil Chicken Pizza takes the beloved Pad Kra Pao to new heights, blending the distinctive flavors of stir-fried chicken with fiery chilies and fragrant Thai basil atop a golden, crispy pizza crust. Envision succulent chicken, glistening with a vibrant sauce, paired with the aromatic goodness of fresh basil and a kick of chili that ignites the senses. This delightful twist on a classic Thai dish is perfect for pizza lovers seeking adventurous flavors, making it a popular pick in trendy Thai fusion restaurants like “Pizzeria 360” in Chiang Mai and “Siam Pizza” in Bangkok, typically priced between 200-400 baht ($6-$12). For those following a ketogenic lifestyle, the keto Sizzling Pad Kra Pao Basil Chicken Pizza offers a delectable alternative without compromising the rich flavor profile.
Origin and Inspiration
The roots of the Pad Kra Pao dish lie deep in Thai cuisine, particularly as a beloved street food, where stir-fried chicken, pork, or beef is combined with garlic, bird’s eye chili, and aromatic Thai basil. Traditionally served with a fragrant jasmine rice, the dish showcases how a few fresh ingredients can create an explosion of flavor on your palate. Much like how Italian cuisine loves its pizza, Thai food celebrates its simplicity and robustness in flavors.
In this pizza adaptation, the Sizzling Pad Kra Pao Basil Chicken Pizza embraces the joyous elements of the traditional dish. For the keto version, the traditional flour crust is replaced with a low-carb base like almond flour—allowing the dish to remain guilt-free while keeping the essential flavors intact. This keto adaptation holds true to the taste, delivering both texture and rich flavor without the extra carbohydrates.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 480 kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 680mg | Potassium: 570mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g
Keto Version
Calories: 360 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 680mg | Potassium: 650mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 0g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 400g boneless chicken, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2-3 bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Traditional Version
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Keto Version
- 1 keto pizza crust (almond flour or cauliflower-based)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Base:
Traditional Version:
Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until you reach your desired thickness. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Keto Version:
Prepare your keto pizza crust according to your recipe, baking until golden brown and firm enough to hold toppings.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in the chicken pieces and stir-fry until cooked through and slightly crispy—watch as the meat sears and caramelizes beautifully in the hot pan. Add the chopped chilies, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir everything together, allowing it to cook for another few minutes until well combined. Remove from heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil, letting its aroma envelop you.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread an even layer of the chicken mixture over the pizza crust, ensuring to distribute the vibrant colors and textures. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese atop the chicken masterpiece.
4. Bake the Pizza:
- Both Versions:
Transfer the assembled pizza to a baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and the crust achieves a lovely golden hue.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let it rest for a minute before slicing. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and a dash of extra fish sauce for an authentic touch. Serve hot and enjoy the wonderful aromas.
What Does It Pair Well With?
Traditional Pairing: A glass of Thai iced tea or chilled Singha beer will beautifully balance the spicy, savory flavors of the pizza while refreshing your palate.
- Keto Pairing: Enjoy with a sparkling water infused with lime or a sugar-free Thai iced coffee that complements the bold flavors without adding carbs.
What is the Shelf Life?
Traditional Version: The pizza is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Keto Version: The keto pizza can also be kept in the fridge for 3 days and reheated without losing its integrity.
- Freezing: Both versions can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through without compromising taste.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cook the pizza on a pizza stone for about 8-10 minutes, embracing the authentic char and smoky flavor.
- Air Fryer: For a quick and easy preparation, use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for crispiness, perfect for personal-sized pizzas.
Conclusion
The Sizzling Pad Kra Pao Basil Chicken Pizza offers a modern twist on a classic Thai dish that delights the senses with its spicy, savory, and aromatic flavors. Whether you indulge in the traditional crust or opt for the guilt-free keto version, this pizza is a harmonious blend of diverse culinary influences. With its mouthwatering combination of ingredients and flexibility in preparation, it fits seamlessly into a balanced meal or a creative snack—making every bite feel like a celebration of flavor!
