Name: Green Thai Chicken Coconut Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2-3 tablespoons Coconut Oil (or olive oil); 1 medium Onion (sweet Vidalia or yellow); 1 pound Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless, diced); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Ginger (ground or fresh); 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander; 14 ounces Coconut Milk (full-fat); 1 cup Shredded Carrots; 1 medium Zucchini (diced); 2 tablespoons Green Curry Paste (adjust to taste); to taste Kosher Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (fresh); 1 bunch Cilantro (for garnish); 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar (optional); to serve Rice or Naan (jasmine or basmati)

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If you’re searching for a comforting dish that bursts with flavor and is simple to prepare, look no further than this vibrant Green Thai Chicken Coconut Curry. With a creamy coconut milk base, a kick of zesty lime, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite. The combination of fragrant Thai green curry paste and tender chicken makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or naan for a complete meal. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get started!

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Green Thai Chicken Coconut Curry deserves a spot in your dinner rotation for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup while maximizing flavor. The rich and creamy coconut milk creates a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken and vegetables, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Moreover, it’s versatile! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you like it mild or spicy, this dish is fully customizable. Finally, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies, making it a wholesome choice for everyone at the table.

Ingredient Notes

Coconut Oil: Rich in flavor, coconut oil adds a touch of tropical goodness. You can substitute with olive oil if desired.
Onion: A medium to large sweet Vidalia or yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the curry.
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast diced into bite-sized pieces ensures quick cooking and tender bites.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic imparts a wonderful aromatic base.
Ginger: Ground or fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Ground Coriander: This spice enhances the overall flavor profile, giving it that authentic Thai essence.
Coconut Milk: A 14-ounce can of full-fat coconut milk provides creaminess; however, lite coconut milk can be used for a lighter option.
Shredded Carrots: These add natural sweetness and a pop of color.
Zucchini: Diced zucchini adds texture and absorbs the delicious sauce.
Green Curry Paste: The star of the show! Adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: These seasonings enhance the flavors.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the coconut milk.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a fragrant touch for garnishing, while basil can be used as an alternative.
Granulated Sugar: Optional, balances the flavors if needed.
Rice or Naan: Serve this curry with jasmine or basmati rice, or warm naan to soak up the sauce.

What’s in the Gear List

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for cooking the curry evenly.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring the ingredients without scratching your pot.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the vegetables and chicken.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Serving Bowls: For plating and serving the curry and rice.

Stepwise Method: Green Thai Chicken Coconut Curry

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice your onion, chicken, zucchini, and shred the carrots. Mince the garlic and ginger, and set everything aside for easy access.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked through, add the shredded carrots and diced zucchini to the pot. Stir well to combine, allowing the vegetables to soften for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Coconut Milk and Curry Paste

Pour in the can of coconut milk and add the Thai green curry paste. Stir until the paste is fully incorporated into the coconut milk. If you enjoy bolder flavors, feel free to add more curry paste at this point.

Step 6: Simmer the Curry

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help meld the flavors together while the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Final Touches

After simmering, taste the curry and adjust the seasoning. Add lime juice for brightness and granulated sugar if desired. Cook for an additional 2 minutes after adjustments.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and stir in chopped cilantro for freshness. Serve your Green Thai Chicken Coconut Curry hot, garnished with extra cilantro, alongside jasmine rice or naan for dipping.

Make It Diet-Friendly

Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free due to the coconut milk.
Low-Carb: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
Gluten-Free: All ingredients used are gluten-free; just double-check your curry paste for assurance.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

When making your Green Thai Chicken Coconut Curry, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

Too Spicy: If your curry turns out spicier than expected, add a bit more coconut milk to mellow the heat.
Too Thick: If the curry is too thick, simply add a splash of water or additional coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
Overcooked Vegetables: To prevent mushy vegetables, add them later in the cooking process.
Flavorless Curry: Always taste and adjust seasoning towards the end; a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of salt can make a world of difference.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Your Green Thai Chicken Coconut Curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. If the curry thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or coconut milk to restore the creamy consistency.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my curry is too spicy?

If you find your curry too spicy, you can add more coconut milk to dilute the heat or serve it with a side of rice to balance the flavors.

Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Absolutely! This curry can be made ahead of time and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or any other protein of your choice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for the protein you choose.

How do I make it more flavorful?

To make your curry more flavorful, consider adding additional spices such as turmeric or more herbs like basil. Adjusting the quantity of green curry paste can also enhance the overall taste.

What to Make After This

Make It Tonight

With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this Green Thai Chicken Coconut Curry is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish brings warmth to the table. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for a special occasion. So gather your ingredients, and create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the aromatic journey of making this curry, and savor every delicious bite!