Creamy Thai Coconut Chicken Curry

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Carly's Cookbook (@carlyscookbook)

This one-pan curry is cozy comfort with a Thai kick - ready in 30 minutes flat. It's a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender chicken. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. Leftovers? They taste even better the next day!

Creamy Thai Coconut Chicken Curry recipe
Prep Time
10min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
40min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)
  • chicken, sliced or cubed
    chicken, sliced or cubed
    1lb
  • onion, sliced
    onion, sliced
    1
  • red bell pepper, sliced
    red bell pepper, sliced
    1
  • garlic, minced
    garlic, minced
    3clove
  • fresh ginger, grated
    fresh ginger, grated
    1tbsp
  • red curry paste
    red curry paste
    1tbsp
  • red pepper flakes
    red pepper flakes
    1tsp
  • coconut milk
    coconut milk
    1can
  • brown sugar
    brown sugar
    1tsp
  • Salt, to taste
    Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
    Pepper, to taste
  • Cumin, to taste
    Cumin, to taste
  • Turmeric, to taste
    Turmeric, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
    Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Thai basil, for garnish
    Thai basil, for garnish
  • Lime, for garnish
    Lime, for garnish

How to make Creamy Thai Coconut Chicken Curry

  1. Step 1

    Season the chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, and turmeric. Cook the chicken in a pan until fully cooked, then set aside.

  2. Step 2

    In the same pan, sauté the red bell pepper, onion, garlic, and ginger in oil until softened.

  3. Step 3

    Stir in the red curry paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to release its flavors.

  4. Step 4

    Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 15–30 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

    Step 1.1: Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer
  5. Step 5

    Top the curry with fresh cilantro, Thai basil, and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

377.5kcal (18.88%)

Protein

30.9g (61.76%)

Carbs

10.3g (3.75%)

Sugars

4.3g (8.6%)

Healthy Fat

2.7g

Unhealthy Fat

22.4g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Adjust the amount of red curry paste and red pepper flakes to control the spice level.

  2. For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk.

  3. Serve the curry over jasmine rice or rice noodles for the best pairing.

  4. Leftovers taste even better as the flavors meld together, so don't hesitate to make extra.

FAQS

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

    Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and add extra juiciness to the curry.

  2. Can I make this curry vegetarian?

    Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or your favorite vegetables.

  3. How do I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

  4. Can I freeze this curry?

    Yes, this curry freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

  5. What can I use if I don’t have Thai basil?

    You can substitute Thai basil with regular basil or even cilantro for a similar fresh flavor.

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