If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, then you’re in for a treat with this Red Thai Coconut Curry Chicken recipe. Bursting with vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, this dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.
It’s a fusion of vibrant spices, succulent chicken, and creamy coconut milk, delivering a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Bangkok.
With soft chicken, rich coconut milk, and a special mix of Thai herbs and spices, this curry will make your mouth water and make you want more.
This recipe is easy to follow and will take your taste buds to the streets of Thailand, no matter how much experience you have in the kitchen.
History and Origin of Red Thai Curry
Thai cuisine is known for its bold and complex flavors, and Red Thai Curry is no exception. Originating from the central region of Thailand, this curry has a rich history dating back centuries. The use of red chilies gives this curry its vibrant color and fiery heat.
Traditionally, red chilies, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, galangal, and shrimp paste were pounded together to make Thai curry pastes.
However, with the availability of pre-made curry pastes in stores today, it has become much easier to recreate this delicious dish at home.
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Step-by-Step Instructions: Red Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 907 grams Chicken Thighs (skinless, boneless)
- 1/4 cup Thai Red Curry Paste (divided)
- 1 tbsp Coconut Oil
- 1/2 cup Red Onion (finely diced)
- 1 1/4 cups Canned Coconut Milk (Full fat)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400oF (204oC).
- Rub the chicken thighs with half of the Thai red curry paste.
- Heat the coconut oil in a cast iron or oven-safe skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. Saute the red onions in the remaining Thai red curry paste for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and sear for 3 minutes per side. Add the coconut milk and bring it to a simmer.
- Once the coconut milk is simmering, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, divide the chicken onto plates, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute tofu or your favorite vegetables for the chicken.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add more Thai red curry paste to suit your taste.
- You can serve it with rice, quinoa and cauliflower rice.
- Don’t skip the garnishes! They add an extra layer of flavor and freshness to the dish. Garnish with sea salt, pepper, lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Feel free to get creative with your choice of vegetables, such as wilted kale, roasted asparagus and green peas. Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas are all delicious additions to this curry.
Why This Dish is Great
The combination of Thai red curry paste, coconut milk, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Feel free to customize this dish to suit your taste preferences. Add extra vegetables for a boost of nutrition or adjust the level of spice to suit your palate.
This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
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Health Benefits of Red Thai Coconut Curry Chicken
Not only is Red Thai Coconut Curry Chicken a burst of flavor, but it also offers several health benefits. Coconut milk is a rich source of healthy fats that can aid in weight management and promote heart health.
The combination of aromatic herbs and spices used in Thai curries, such as lemongrass and ginger, has anti-inflammatory properties and may help boost the immune system.
Chicken provides a good source of protein, while the addition of vegetables makes this dish a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair this Red Thai Coconut Curry Chicken with a refreshing Thai iced tea or a crisp white wine, such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.
For dessert, indulge in a slice of mango sticky rice or coconut ice cream to round out your Thai-inspired feast.
Closing Thoughts
Bursting with bold flavors and easy to make, this Red Thai Coconut Curry Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to a taste of Thailand tonight.
Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family.
Happy cooking!