Authentic Thai Red Chicken Curry Recipe - Easy & Quick!

Updated at: 19/02/2025

Craving a vibrant and flavorful Thai red chicken curry but intimidated by complex recipes? Fear not! This authentic yet surprisingly easy recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Thailand. We'll guide you through creating a rich and creamy curry brimming with tender chicken, fragrant spices, and the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times – this recipe is designed for busy weeknights, delivering incredible results without the fuss.

This simple yet delicious Thai red chicken curry recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and a straightforward method, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. Get ready to savor the explosion of flavors in every bite! To embark on this culinary adventure, let's dive into the detailed step-by-step instructions below.

Tools Needed

  • Knife
  • Chopping board
  • Pot or Wok

Ingredients

  • Red curry paste: 5 tablespoons
  • Boneless chicken thighs: 1 kg
  • Bamboo shoots: 2
  • Coconut milk: 800ml (2 cans)
  • Basil leaves: a handful
  • Thai basil leaves
  • Kaffir lime leaves: a few
  • Palm sugar: 2 tablespoons (or brown sugar)
  • Red chili: 1 large
  • Fish sauce: 2 teaspoons
  • Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Sauté Aromatics & Build the Curry Base

  • Chop a few kaffir lime leaves for enhanced flavor. Add the whole remaining leaves.
  • Chop the red chili into angular shapes (or as desired).
  • Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a pot or wok. Add 5 tbsp of red curry paste. If it splatters, add a little water and mix. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Chop a few kaffir lime leaves for enhanced flavor. Add the whole remaining leaves.Chop the red chili into angular shapes (or as desired).Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a pot or wok. Add 5 tbsp of red curry paste. If it splatters, add a little water and mix. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics & Build the Curry Base

Step 2. Cook the Chicken

  • Add one can of coconut milk and mix well.
  • Add the chicken pieces, mix well, cover, and cook for 4-5 minutes until almost done.
Add one can of coconut milk and mix well.Add the chicken pieces, mix well, cover, and cook for 4-5 minutes until almost done.
Cook the Chicken

Step 3. Add Vegetables & Simmer

  • Chop the bamboo shoots into small pieces.
  • Add the bamboo shoots and the second can of coconut milk. Add the chopped kaffir lime leaves and palm sugar.
  • Cover and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Chop the bamboo shoots into small pieces.Add the bamboo shoots and the second can of coconut milk. Add the chopped kaffir lime leaves and palm sugar.Cover and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Add Vegetables & Simmer

Step 4. Finish & Garnish

  • Add the remaining lime leaves, fish sauce, basil leaves, and some chilies (save some for garnish). Mix and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Serve and garnish with remaining chilies.
Add the remaining lime leaves, fish sauce, basil leaves, and some chilies (save some for garnish). Mix and cook for another 2-3 minutes.Serve and garnish with remaining chilies.
Finish & Garnish

Read more: Easy Ground Beef Curry: A Delicious Asian Home-Style Recipe

Tips

  • If you can't find palm sugar, use brown sugar as a substitute.
  • Adjust the amount of palm sugar to your liking.
  • The curry paste already contains salt, so you may not need to add extra.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts?

Yes! Bone-in thighs will add more flavor and richness to the curry. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly, as they'll take longer to cook through.

2. What can I do if my curry is too spicy?

Add a spoonful of coconut milk or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the heat. A touch of sugar can also help mellow the spice.


This authentic Thai red chicken curry recipe delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures without the usual complexities. Enjoy the fragrant aromas and vibrant taste, perfect served with steamed rice or fluffy naan bread. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound Thai cooking skills!