Thai Chicken Coconut Curry

Thai Chicken Coconut Curry is a rich, creamy, and aromatic dish that brings the bold flavors of Thai cuisine right into your kitchen. Tender pieces of chicken are simmered in a fragrant coconut milk-based curry sauce with vibrant vegetables and Thai spices, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy with authentic Thai flavors
• Easy to make in one pan
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables
• Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free
• Perfect for meal prep or batch cooking
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Pairs beautifully with rice or noodles
• A great introduction to Thai cooking at home
• Adjustable spice level to suit your taste
• Comforting, warming, and packed with flavor

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Coconut oil or vegetable oil
• Onion (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh ginger (grated)
• Thai red curry paste
• Full-fat coconut milk
• Chicken broth or water
• Fish sauce
• Brown sugar or coconut sugar
• Red bell pepper (sliced)
• Carrot (sliced)
• Baby spinach or Thai basil
• Lime juice
• Salt and pepper
• Cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles (for serving)

directions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add Thai red curry paste and stir to coat the aromatics.
5. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on the outside.
6. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
7. Add fish sauce and sugar. Bring to a simmer.
8. Add the bell pepper and carrots. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
9. Stir in spinach or Thai basil and cook until wilted.
10. Squeeze in fresh lime juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a pescatarian or vegetarian option
• Swap red curry paste for green or yellow curry paste for a different flavor
• Add bamboo shoots, zucchini, or mushrooms for more veggie variety
• Use lite coconut milk for a lighter version
• Add a spoonful of peanut butter for a creamy, nutty twist
• Garnish with chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro for added texture

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. This curry also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What kind of coconut milk should I use?

Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the richest, creamiest texture.

Is Thai red curry paste spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less paste.

Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

What’s a good substitute for fish sauce?

Soy sauce or tamari can work, though fish sauce adds authentic umami flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just add them during the last 5–7 minutes of cooking so they don’t overcook.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free curry paste and fish sauce.

What can I serve with Thai Chicken Coconut Curry?

Steamed jasmine rice, rice noodles, or cauliflower rice are great options.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use tofu instead of chicken and substitute fish sauce with soy sauce.

How do I thicken the curry?

Simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid, or add a cornstarch slurry if needed.

Can I use curry powder instead of curry paste?

No, Thai curry paste and curry powder are different—use Thai paste for authentic flavor.

Conclusion

Thai Chicken Coconut Curry is a delicious, comforting dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your table with ease. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking to impress guests with a restaurant-quality meal, this creamy, spiced curry is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it over fluffy rice or noodles and enjoy the warmth in every bite.

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