Name: Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 20 green chilies; 1 tsp Kaffir lime zest; 1 tsp sliced galangal; ½ tsp salt; ½ tbsp shrimp paste; 2 tbsp sliced shallots; ½ tsp coriander seeds; 1 ½ tbsp sliced garlic; ½ tsp white peppercorns; ½ tsp cumin seeds; 3 coriander roots; 2 tbsp sliced lemongrass; 100 g green curry paste; 200 g chicken (breast or thigh), cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 red spur chilies sliced diagonally; 25 g Thai sweet basil leaves; 1 cube chicken blood (optional; this is a traditional Thai ingredient); 2 tbsp palm sugar; 4 tbsp fish sauce; 250 ml coconut cream; 1 l coconut milk (or water, if preferred); 250 g winter melon cut into bite-sized pieces

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s nothing like the vibrant flavors of Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry to transport you straight to the streets of Thailand. I remember the first time I tried this dish; it was at a small, bustling restaurant tucked away in a busy market. The aroma of the spices wafted through the air, luring me in. I watched as the chef expertly blended fresh ingredients, creating a beautiful green paste that would soon envelop tender pieces of chicken and melt-in-your-mouth winter melon. Every bite was an explosion of flavor, and I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen.

The key to this dish lies in the homemade curry paste. It might seem intimidating, but trust me, it’s worth every moment of effort. When you make it from scratch, you unlock a depth of flavor that pre-packaged pastes simply can’t match. Plus, you can customize it to your own taste preferences! This dish is not just food; it’s a celebration of life and culture, and it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Imagine gathering your friends around the table, serving steaming bowls of Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry, and watching their faces light up with delight. This dish is a true showstopper, and it will undoubtedly impress anyone lucky enough to share a meal with you. So roll up your sleeves, gather those fresh ingredients, and let’s bring a little piece of Thailand to your home!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
490 kcal

Protein:
29 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
39 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

What Sets This Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry Apart

It’s All About Fresh Ingredients

When it comes to Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry, the freshness of the ingredients makes all the difference. Nothing beats the vibrant green of fresh green chilies and Thai basil in this dish. They provide a level of brightness that can’t be replicated with dried spices.

Homemade is Best

Making your own curry paste is a game changer. It’s surprisingly simple and allows you to control the heat level and flavor profile. The combination of galangal, lemongrass, and coriander roots creates a fragrant and complex base that elevates this curry.

A Comforting Dish

This curry is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly comforting. The creamy texture of coconut milk paired with tender chicken and winter melon creates a warm hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect remedy after a long day.

Versatile and Adaptable

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Substituting the chicken for tofu or other vegetables can create a delightful vegetarian option without losing any flavor.

Sharing and Celebrating

Lastly, Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry is best enjoyed with others. Gather your family and friends, serve it with a side of Thai rice noodles, and enjoy the experience of sharing a meal together. The joy of cooking and eating is magnified when it’s done in good company.

What You Need for Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry

The ingredients for Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry are what bring this dish to life. Each element plays a crucial role, balancing flavors and textures to create a harmonious bite. The key players include fresh green chilies, which provide the signature heat, and coconut milk, which adds richness and creaminess.

20 green chilies
1 tsp Kaffir lime zest
1 tsp sliced galangal
½ tsp salt
½ tbsp shrimp paste
2 tbsp sliced shallots
½ tsp coriander seeds
1 ½ tbsp sliced garlic
½ tsp white peppercorns
½ tsp cumin seeds
3 coriander roots
2 tbsp sliced lemongrass
100 g green curry paste (see above)
200 g chicken (breast or thigh), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 red spur chilies sliced diagonally
25 g Thai sweet basil leaves
1 cube chicken blood (optional; this is a traditional Thai ingredient)
2 tbsp palm sugar
4 tbsp fish sauce
250 ml coconut cream
1 l coconut milk (or water, if preferred)
250 g winter melon cut into bite-sized pieces

Putting Together Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry

Making Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry is a delightful journey into the heart of Thai cuisine. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started! Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will impress everyone.

Pound the green chilies with salt until smooth. This will be the base of your curry paste, so take your time and ensure everything is well combined.
Add the galangal, lemongrass, lime zest, coriander roots, and white peppercorns into your mortar and pound until well combined. You should start to smell the fragrant oils being released.
Next, add the shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, cumin, and shrimp paste; pound everything into a uniform, smooth paste. This is where the magic happens!
Store your curry paste in an airtight container. It holds up in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you have extra, don’t hesitate to make a double batch for future meals.
Cut the winter melon into bite-sized pieces. This ingredient adds a lovely texture and absorbs the flavors of the curry beautifully.
Now, cut the chicken (breast or thighs) into bite-sized pieces. The uniform size ensures even cooking throughout.
Heat the coconut cream in a pot over medium heat along with the green curry paste until fragrant and the oil begins to separate. This step intensifies the flavors of your curry.
Add the chicken and stir-fry until the surface turns opaque. This should take a few minutes.
Then add the winter melon and pour in the coconut milk. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
Season the curry with fish sauce and palm sugar. Taste as you go to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Simmer the curry until the chicken is tender and the melon is fully cooked. This should take about 10 to 15 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember, you want a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy!
Turn off the heat and garnish with Thai basil leaves and sliced red chili for a pop of color.
Serve hot with Thai rice noodles (Khanom Jeen) and fresh vegetables on the side. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Texture Matters: When preparing your curry, the texture of the vegetables is crucial. You want them to be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on cooking times.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat of your curry by varying the number of green chilies you use. If you prefer it milder, you can remove the seeds before pounding.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs, especially Thai basil, are key to adding depth to your dish. Always opt for fresh over dried for the best flavor.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Make-Ahead: The curry paste can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. This makes the cooking process quicker and easier.

Tips for Success

To ensure you create the best Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry, here are my top tips!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the dish even more delicious the next day.
Freezing: You can freeze the curry for up to three months. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or Thai rice noodles (Khanom Jeen) to soak up the rich sauce.
Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to adjust the seasonings. If it’s too spicy, add a bit more coconut milk or sugar to balance the heat.
Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients. The quality of your coconut milk and chicken will significantly affect the final dish.

What to Pair With Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry

Pairing is an essential part of enjoying Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry. Here are some wonderful suggestions:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This is the classic accompaniment that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Spring Rolls: Crisp and fresh, they make for a delightful starter or side.
Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber or papaya salad can balance the richness of the curry.
Thai Rice Noodles: Serve with Khanom Jeen, which adds a lovely texture contrast.
Occasions: Perfect for a casual family dinner, a cozy night in, or even a festive gathering.
Drinks: Serve with chilled herbal tea or a refreshing lemon soda to complement the dish.

FAQ

The secret behind Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry lies in the fresh ingredients and the homemade curry paste. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe allows you to control the flavor and heat, providing a personalized touch to the dish. The balance of spices, combined with creamy coconut milk, creates a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Absolutely! You can easily adapt Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry to a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables. Just ensure to use a plant-based shrimp paste or omit it altogether for a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy.

The spice level in Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry can be adjusted to suit your taste. The amount of green chilies used will determine the heat. If you prefer a milder curry, feel free to reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds before using them in the paste. Remember, you can always start mild and increase heat gradually.

This curry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or Thai rice noodles (Khanom Jeen). You can also serve it alongside fresh vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, consider adding Thai spring rolls as an appetizer!

Conclusion

In summary, Authentic Thai Green Chicken Curry is a true masterpiece of flavor, bringing the essence of Thai cuisine right into your kitchen. The combination of fresh ingredients, homemade curry paste, and the comforting creaminess of coconut milk makes it a standout dish. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and try this recipe today; you won’t regret it. Share it with friends and family, and watch as they fall in love with the vibrant tastes that make Thai food so special.