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Homemade Panang Curry photo

Panang Curry

This Panang Curry is bursting with flavor! A rich blend of coconut milk and tender chicken makes for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Thai

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 2 tablespoons Panang curry paste *
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
  • 2 pounds chicken breasts cut into pieces against the grain
  • 1 small onion sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 14 oz cans coconut milk (Chaokoh brand is my favorite)
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 cup loosely packed basil leaves roughly chopped
  • Hot cooked rice white, brown, or jasmine

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the sliced bell peppers. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
  3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
  4. Add the Panang curry paste and peanut butter to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables, allowing the flavors to meld for a minute.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry. Add this to the curry to thicken the sauce, stirring well.
  7. Stir in the light brown sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Finally, fold in the chopped basil leaves just before serving.
  8. Serve the Panang Curry hot over a bed of your favorite cooked rice. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen!

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce in place of fish sauce for a vegan version.
  • Adjust the level of spice by reducing the amount of Panang curry paste.