Chili basil chicken fried rice.

A nutritionist-approved protein-packed Asiandelight.

If you’re craving bold Asian flavours with a fiery kick, this chili basil chicken fried rice is the perfect way to elevate your dinner table. Instead of ordering takeout, certified nutritionist and chef Aathira Sethumadhavan invites you to transform your kitchen into a flavour playground with this wholesome, protein-rich recipe.

Aathira, known for her calorie-conscious yet indulgent creations, describes the dish as a fusion of Pad Krapow, Bibimbap, and desi fried rice. This one-pan wonder balances taste and nutrition. Each serving delivers 31 grams of protein and 410 calories, making it ideal for those who want a satisfying meal without compromising on health.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the chicken:

• 200 g chicken breast, bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp cornflour
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• Salt and black pepper
• 2 tsp oil

For the vegetables:

• ½ cup carrot, finely minced
• 1 cup cabbage, finely minced
• ½ cup cucumber, finely minced
• Pinch of salt

For the sauce and rice:

• Oil spray
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 bird’s eye or regular chillies, chopped
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp chilli crisp
• 1 tsp gochujang
• 1 tsp vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 packed cup fresh basil leaves, shredded
• 1 cup cooked, cooled rice

Method

1. Marinate chicken with cornflour, baking soda, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sear chicken until golden. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté carrot, cabbage, and cucumber with a pinch of salt until softened. Remove and set aside.
4. Add oil spray, garlic, and chillies. Sauté until fragrant. Return chicken and vegetables to the pan.
5. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, chilli crisp, gochujang, vinegar, and sugar. Season well.
6. Toss in basil leaves and rice. Mix gently until evenly coated and heated through. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Serve hot and enjoy a flavour-packed, nourishing dinner.

Nutrition (per serving, 300 g)

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 31 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fat: 14 g

This recipe perfectly balances spice, freshness, and nutrition- ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet indulgent.