Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Thailand right to your kitchen. This easy-to-make recipe offers a rich and creamy experience, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a fragrant coconut milk sauce, this curry is sure to impress anyone at your table.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- For the Vegetables
- For the Sauce
- How to Make Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
- Step 2: Add Spices
- Step 3: Incorporate Coconut Milk
- Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Step 5: Final Touches
- How to Serve Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Over Steamed Rice
- With Rice Noodles
- Topped with Fresh Herbs
- With Lime Wedges
- Accompanied by Papadums
- How to Perfect Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Best Side Dishes for Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Reheating Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk unique?
- Can I customize my Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk?
- How spicy is this Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk?
- What should I serve with Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk?
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk can be made in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of yellow curry powder and red curry paste creates a complex flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp, making this dish suitable for various dietary preferences.
- Comfort Food: The creamy coconut milk base provides a comforting richness that warms you up from the inside out.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good curry! This recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without crowding them, ensuring perfect results.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps combine the corn starch and water smoothly, preventing lumps in your curry sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (or boneless skinless thighs, thinly sliced into 1/2-inch pieces)
For the Vegetables
- 3 red bell peppers (chopped)
- 1 white or yellow onion (chopped)
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- ½-1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (more to taste)
- 26 ounces unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- ¼ cup cold water + 2 tablespoons corn starch
How to Make Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine chicken, peppers, and onions. Drizzle with oil, give it a good stir to coat, and cook for 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is just cooked through.
Step 2: Add Spices
Sprinkle yellow curry powder over everything and stir for about 1 minute to release its flavors.
Step 3: Incorporate Coconut Milk
Add coconut milk, red curry paste, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Bring the mixture to a low boil while stirring gently.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Whisk corn starch into cold water until dissolved. Add this mixture to the pan and stir for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste the sauce and add more salt if needed. Serve immediately over steamed white rice or rice noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for an extra burst of flavor!
How to Serve Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it over rice or noodles, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.
Over Steamed Rice
- Steamed white rice pairs perfectly with the rich sauce, allowing each bite of chicken and vegetables to shine through.
With Rice Noodles
- Light and chewy rice noodles absorb the flavors beautifully, making for a satisfying meal that’s easy to slurp!
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your curry with fresh cilantro or basil for a burst of freshness. This adds color and enhances the overall flavor profile.
With Lime Wedges
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over your serving for a zesty kick that balances the richness of the coconut milk.
Accompanied by Papadums
- Crunchy papadums add texture and are perfect for scooping up the curry. They bring a delightful contrast to the dish.

How to Perfect Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
Creating the perfect Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk requires a few simple tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your dish is full of flavor and texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables enhance the taste significantly, making your curry taste authentic.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes or even fresh chili peppers for an extra kick.
Balance Flavors: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, sweetness, or acidity as needed to achieve a harmonious flavor profile.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: This step thickens the sauce, giving it a luxurious texture that clings beautifully to chicken and veggies.
Best Side Dishes for Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
Pairing side dishes with your Thai Chicken Curry can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and herbs provides a crunchy contrast.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or snap peas lightly steamed brings color and nutrients alongside your rich curry.
Thai Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables create an exciting starter that complements the main dish.
Jasmine Rice: Fragrant jasmine rice is an excellent base for soaking up all that delicious curry sauce.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat is a delightful way to finish off your meal on a high note.
Chili Jam: A spicy-sweet condiment served on the side adds depth and enhances flavors in every bite of your curry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Using the wrong type of chicken: Opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Using bone-in chicken can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not measuring spices accurately: Spices can drastically change the taste. Always measure your yellow curry powder and red curry paste for the best results.
- Skipping the thickening step: Adding corn starch is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Forgetting this can leave your curry too watery.
- Ignoring personal spice preference: Start with crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat tolerance. You can always add more later if you prefer it spicier.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cook veggies just until tender. Overcooked peppers and onions lose their crunch and color.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Freeze in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container.
- It lasts up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place curry in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk unique?
The combination of creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices creates a rich flavor profile that’s distinctively Thai.
Can I customize my Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or snap peas, or substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
How spicy is this Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk?
The spice level depends on how much crushed red pepper flakes you use. Start small and adjust based on your preference.
What should I serve with Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or rice noodles, which soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance, store it properly, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is not only a delightful dish but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this recipe is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level!
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Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Thai Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is a quick and delicious dish that brings the warmth of Thailand to your dinner table. This creamy curry combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a fragrant coconut milk sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The harmonious blend of spices will tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 3 red bell peppers (chopped)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 26 ounces unsweetened coconut milk
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Corn starch for thickening
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the chicken, bell peppers, and onion with oil. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in yellow curry powder and cook for another minute.
- Add coconut milk, red curry paste, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Bring to a low boil while stirring.
- Mix corn starch with cold water until dissolved, then stir into the pan until thickened.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg





