Authentic Thai Green Curry Chicken

This recipe brings an authentic taste of Thailand right to your kitchen. Despite its complex flavors, this dish is surprisingly easy to make at home, and it’s also gluten-free and adaptable for vegans!

Let’s dive into the ingredients, the cooking process, and some interesting facts about this delicious dish.

Why Thai Green Curry Chicken?

Thai green curry chicken is beloved for its vibrant color and the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors.

The dish gets its name from the green curry paste that forms its base, a mixture of green chilies, garlic, lemongrass, and other aromatic ingredients.

Combined with creamy coconut milk, tender chicken, and fresh herbs, this curry is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Whether you’re new to Thai cuisine or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients and Their Roles

To create an authentic Thai green curry, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in developing the dish’s signature flavor:

• Thai basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the curry.
• Bamboo shoots: Common in green curry, offering a crunchy texture. You can substitute with Thai eggplant or winter melon if preferred.
• Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a mild sweetness.
• Green curry paste: The heart of the dish, either store-bought or homemade, providing the curry’s distinctive flavor.
• Makrut lime leaves: Infuses the curry with a citrusy aroma and depth.
• Full-fat coconut milk: Creates the rich, creamy base of the curry.
• Fish sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to balance the flavors.
• Palm sugar: Provides sweetness, balancing the spice and salt.
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The preferred protein for a tender and juicy curry.
• Chicken stock: Enhances the curry’s flavor and helps to create the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s go through the steps to make this delicious Thai green curry:

1. Reduce Coconut Milk: Start by reducing ¾ cup of coconut milk in a pan until it becomes thick and the oil begins to separate.
2. Sauté Curry Paste: Add the green curry paste and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes aromatic.
3. Add Chicken: Stir in the chicken thigh pieces, coating them well with the curry paste.
4. Add Liquids: Pour in the remaining coconut milk, chicken stock, palm sugar, and 1 tablespoon of fish sauce.
5. Add Makrut Lime Leaves: Tear the makrut lime leaves to release their aroma and add them to the pot.
6. Simmer: Let the curry simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
7. Add Bamboo Shoots and Peppers: Stir in the bamboo shoots and red bell pepper, then bring the curry to a boil.
8. Taste and Adjust: Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce or sugar if needed.
9. Finish with Basil: Stir in the Thai basil leaves just before serving, and serve the curry with jasmine rice.

If Using Chicken Breast: After sautéing the curry paste, add the coconut milk, chicken stock, palm sugar, and fish sauce; simmer for 5 minutes. Then, add the marinated chicken breast and cook until it’s about 70% done. Stir in the bamboo shoots, bring to a boil, adjust seasoning, and finish with basil before serving.

Making Green Curry Vegan

For those who prefer a vegan option, making Thai green curry vegan is simple:

• Vegan Protein: Substitute the chicken with tofu or hearty vegetables like Asian mushrooms or Japanese eggplant.
• Replace Fish Sauce: Use soy sauce, salt, or vegan fish sauce instead of traditional fish sauce.
• Vegetable Broth: Replace chicken stock with vegetable broth or dried shiitake soaking water.

Interesting Facts About Thai Green Curry

Did you know that Thai green curry is traditionally spicier than its red counterpart? The heat comes from the fresh green chilies used in the curry paste. However, the addition of coconut milk helps to mellow out the spiciness, making it palatable even for those who aren’t big fans of spicy food.

Thai green curry is also a very versatile dish – while chicken is the most common protein used, you can also make it with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Another interesting aspect of Thai green curry is its vibrant color, which comes from the fresh green chilies and Thai basil used in the curry paste.

The use of makrut lime leaves and lemongrass adds layers of flavor, making it a complex yet harmonious dish.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to bring the authentic taste of Thailand into your kitchen, this Thai green curry chicken recipe is a must-try. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to impress your family and friends.

Perfect with a side of jasmine rice!