Easy Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry Recipe

Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry

If you’re in search of a quick, vibrant, and utterly delicious dinner, this Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with authentic Thai flavors, it delivers the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness, all while keeping preparation simple and fast. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a busy weeknight warrior, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something exotic and comforting without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Flavors Made Easy: Experience the true taste of Thai cuisine using straightforward ingredients and a simple method.
  • Quick Weeknight Solution: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something tasty but hassle-free.
  • Healthy & Lean Protein: Ground chicken keeps the dish light yet filling, making it a nutritious choice.
  • Customizable Heat Level: Easily adjust the spice to your liking, from mild and creamy to fiery and bold.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan for convenience and flavor blending.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry are simple but essential, each playing a crucial role in delivering vibrant flavor, creamy texture, and that beautiful green hue. From fragrant herbs to the perfect balance of spice and sweetness, these components come together to create a hearty and soul-satisfying meal.

  • Ground Chicken: The base protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the flavors perfectly.
  • Green Curry Paste: The heart of the dish, bringing authentic Thai heat and aromatic spices.
  • Coconut Milk: Adds creamy richness that balances the curry’s spice and tones down acidity.
  • Fresh Thai Basil: Brings a sweet, peppery aroma and fresh green color to the curry.
  • Lime Leaves or Zest: Infuses a bright citrus note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
  • Fish Sauce: Provides that essential umami and saltiness characteristic of Thai dishes.
  • Vegetables (optional): Bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini add crunch and nutrition.
  • Fresh Chilies or Chili Flakes: Customize heat intensity to your taste.
  • Garlic and Ginger: Foundational aromatics that create depth in the curry base.
  • Brown Sugar or Palm Sugar: Balances savory and spicy notes with a slight sweetness.

Variations for Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry

One of the best things about this Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry is how flexible it is. You can easily adapt it based on taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the dish uniquely yours.

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap ground chicken for tofu or tempeh and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
  • Extra Veggies: Add eggplant, bamboo shoots, or baby corn for a more substantial meal.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice to cut down on carbs.
  • Mild Curry: Use less green curry paste and more coconut milk to tone down the spice without losing flavor.
  • Protein Swap: Replace ground chicken with ground turkey or lean pork for a different protein profile.
Easy Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry Recipe

How to Make Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant and golden, about 1 to 2 minutes, which forms the aromatic base of your curry.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook thoroughly until no longer pink, allowing it to soak up the flavors from the garlic and ginger.

Step 3: Add Green Curry Paste

Stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of green curry paste, depending on your spice preference. Cook for another minute to release the paste’s essential oils and deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Pour in Coconut Milk

Pour a can of full-fat coconut milk into the skillet, stirring to combine and creating a creamy curry sauce. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Season and Add Vegetables

Add fresh vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas if using, fish sauce, a pinch of sugar, and lime leaves or zest. Stir and simmer until the vegetables are tender yet crisp, and the seasoning is perfectly balanced.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Turn off the heat and fold in fresh Thai basil leaves for a burst of bright, peppery flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality curry paste make a world of difference in flavor.
  • Balance Heat and Sweetness: Adjust the amount of green curry paste and sugar to suit your spice tolerance and palate.
  • Don’t Skip the Basil: Thai basil adds an authenticity that other herbs can’t replicate.
  • Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the curry aggressively to keep coconut milk smooth and prevent separation.
  • Cook in Batches: For larger quantities, cook the ground chicken separately before combining to ensure even cooking.

How to Serve Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can transform your curry. Sprinkle chopped cilantro, extra Thai basil leaves, or thinly sliced fresh red chilies on top for a colorful and flavorful finish.

Side Dishes

Traditionally, this curry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the luscious sauce perfectly. For a lower-carb approach, serve with coconut cauliflower rice or a crisp cucumber salad for contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, serve your Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry in individual bowls garnished with lime wedges and a drizzle of coconut cream. Pairing it with a side of crispy spring rolls or fresh mango salad enhances the Thai dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This curry freezes well in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent the coconut milk from separating, cool it completely before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating and to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in this recipe and offers a similar lean protein profile with a slightly different flavor.

Is green curry paste very spicy?

Green curry paste has a medium heat level but you can control the spice by adjusting how much paste you use or by adding more coconut milk.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Replace ground chicken with tofu or tempeh and substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative.

What rice pairs best with this curry?

Jasmine rice is the classic choice thanks to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, which complements the curry beautifully.

How do I store leftover curry properly?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage, making sure to cool completely before freezing.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry is a wonderful, approachable way to bring bold Thai flavors to your dinner table with ease. It’s fast, flavorful, and totally comforting—a perfect meal to share with friends and family or simply enjoy as a delicious treat for yourself. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight dinner!

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Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry

A quick, vibrant, and delicious Ground Chicken Thai Green Curry packed with authentic Thai flavors, balanced spice, creamy coconut milk, and fresh herbs. This easy one-pot dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy, customizable, and comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

  • Author: Nina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb ground chicken

Base and Aromatics

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped

Currents and Sauces

  • 2 to 3 tablespoons Thai green curry paste (adjust based on spice preference)
  • 1 can (13.5-14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar or palm sugar

Herbs and Citrus

  • Fresh Thai basil leaves, handful
  • 2 to 3 lime leaves or 1 teaspoon lime zest

Vegetables (Optional)

  • Bell peppers, sliced
  • Snap peas
  • Zucchini, sliced

Spices

  • Fresh chilies or chili flakes (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and ginger and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and golden to create the aromatic base of your curry.
  2. Cook the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook thoroughly until no longer pink, letting it absorb the garlic and ginger flavors.
  3. Add Green Curry Paste: Stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of green curry paste based on your desired spice level. Cook for an additional minute to release the paste’s essential oils and deepen the flavor.
  4. Pour in Coconut Milk: Add one can of full-fat coconut milk to the skillet and stir to combine, creating a creamy curry sauce. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to meld flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
  5. Season and Add Vegetables: Add any fresh vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, fish sauce, a pinch of sugar, and lime leaves or zest. Stir and simmer until the vegetables are tender yet crisp and the seasoning is well balanced.
  6. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and fold in fresh Thai basil leaves for a bright, peppery flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs and quality green curry paste for authentic flavor.
  • Adjust green curry paste and sugar amounts to balance heat and sweetness.
  • Don’t skip Thai basil—it adds a unique and authentic aroma.
  • Simmer gently to keep coconut milk smooth and prevent separation.
  • For larger batches, cook ground chicken separately before combining.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: ground chicken Thai green curry, quick Thai curry, easy green curry, healthy dinner, one-pot Thai meal

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