Thai Chicken Coconut Curry

Save this recipe on:

If you’re craving a meal that’s bold, creamy, and full of comfort, Thai Chicken Coconut Curry checks all the boxes. This vibrant dish combines tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with red curry paste, garlic, and ginger. It’s spicy, slightly sweet, and incredibly fragrant—the kind of meal that turns any weeknight into something special.

What sets this curry apart is its balance. The heat of the red curry is softened by the smoothness of the coconut milk, while fresh vegetables like bell peppers and spinach add color and a nutritional boost. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

What Kind of Coconut Milk Should I Use?

Full-fat canned coconut milk is the way to go here. It adds richness and body to the sauce that you just won’t get with the light version. Shake the can before opening to mix the cream and liquid, and avoid boxed coconut beverages—those are better suited for smoothies.

Ingredients for the Thai Chicken Coconut Curry

Chicken breast or thighs – Boneless and skinless, cut into chunks. Thighs will give a juicier bite, while breasts keep it lean.

Red curry paste – The essential ingredient for that signature Thai flavor. You can adjust the amount depending on your heat preference.

Coconut milk – Full-fat, canned. This is the base of the sauce, providing creaminess and a hint of sweetness.

Garlic and ginger – Freshly minced for a fragrant foundation.

Bell peppers – Red or yellow add a pop of sweetness and color.

Baby spinach – Stirred in at the end for a nutritious green element.

Fish sauce – Adds depth and umami. A little goes a long way.

Brown sugar – Balances the heat with just a touch of sweetness.

Onion – Sautéed until soft to add savory depth.

Oil – For sautéing, neutral oils like avocado or canola work best.

---

How To Make the Thai Chicken Coconut Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent. Then, stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add the red curry paste to the skillet and stir it into the aromatics. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to release the oils and deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces and toss them to coat in the curry mixture. Cook until lightly browned on the outside (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet).

Step 4: Add the Coconut Milk and Simmer

Pour in the coconut milk, stir well, and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Add the fish sauce and brown sugar. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 5: Add Veggies

Toss in the sliced bell peppers and let them soften slightly—about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the baby spinach and cook just until wilted.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with more fish sauce or sugar if needed. Serve hot over jasmine rice or rice noodles.

---

Serving and Storing Thai Chicken Coconut Curry

This dish is best served piping hot over freshly steamed jasmine rice, though it’s equally satisfying with rice noodles. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—perfect for make-ahead meals.

What to Serve With Thai Chicken Coconut Curry?

Coconut Rice

Boost the tropical flavors with fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk.

Thai Cucumber Salad

A refreshing, crunchy contrast to the creamy curry.

Spring Rolls

Serve crispy or fresh spring rolls as a fun starter or side.

Mango Sticky Rice

A classic Thai dessert that cools the palate after the spice.

Steamed Broccoli

Simple and clean, to balance the richness.

Naan or Roti

Unconventional, but excellent for soaking up all that luscious sauce.

Thai Iced Tea

Cool and creamy, this drink is the perfect pairing.

---

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Thai Chicken Coconut Curry won your heart, you might fall in love with these cozy, satisfying dishes too:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a quick yet indulgent meal.
• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken with a golden crust and melty cheese.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta when you want creamy comfort in every bite.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that’s perfect for a family-style dinner.
• Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti when you need a little weeknight joy.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go spicy or mild? Add extra veggies? Pair it with something unexpected?

I love seeing the twists you bring to each dish. And if you’re looking for more flavor-packed ideas, check out my daily recipe shares on Pinterest.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: