Easy Green Curry Chicken with Rice Noodles
Generated with the assistance of Pantry Bliss AI
Last updated on
4
20 minutes
Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
10 minutes
In the heart of Southeast Asia, the vibrant culinary traditions find their roots in layers of flavor, culture, and simplicity. The dish you are about to dive into—Easy Green Curry Chicken with Rice Noodles—draws inspiration from the scattered street food stalls of Bangkok, where aromatic green curry is served with rice noodles, creating a harmonious marriage of textures and tastes. This recipe pays homage to my admiration for chefs like David Thompson, whose profound understanding of Thai cuisine translated traditional recipes into modern culinary experiences. By leveraging store-bought green curry paste, this recipe embodies the convenience of today while embracing the richness of age-old techniques and flavors.
At the core of this dish, we find delicate chicken breast, which partners beautifully with a vibrant green curry paste, imparting a fusion of spicy, herbal, and slightly sweet notes. The use of coconut milk not only adds creaminess but also balances the heat from the green curry. Enhance this with a splash of fish sauce and a touch of lime juice, forging an intricate dance of savory and acidic elements that will captivate your palate. Every bite will be an exploration of lush, fragrant notes typically found in a traditional Thai kitchen, yet approachable enough for home cooks to master.
The cooking techniques in this recipe are key to crafting its unmistakably delightful flavors. Searing the chicken pieces properly allows them to develop a golden crust, creating a depth of flavor that permeates the dish. Then, by incorporating the green curry paste early in the cooking process, we unlock its full aromatic potential, allowing it to bloom in the warm embrace of the hot oil before being met with the soothing presence of coconut milk. This conscious layering of flavors ensures that nothing competes but rather complements, guiding your taste buds through an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Presentation plays an essential role in the enjoyment of this dish. Imagine serving the vibrant green curry over a bed of tender, fluffy rice noodles—a neutral canvas to absorb the colorful sauce. A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves atop the dish not only adds a fragrant herbal aroma but also elevates the visual appeal with a burst of green. Serve alongside lime wedges; their zesty brightness invites diners to customize their experience, encouraging a squeeze of freshness with each bite.
To enhance the overall dining experience, consider pairing the Easy Green Curry Chicken with a side of crispy spring rolls or an Asian-inspired salad, bringing textural variety to the table. A chilled Thai iced tea or a light citrus-infused cocktail would beautifully complement the warm, rich notes of the curry. This dish is not merely a meal; it is an invitation to gather, enjoy, and explore the beauty of Thai cuisine within the comfort of your own kitchen.
This recipe and its accompanying image were generated by Pantry Bliss AI. Please use your discretion, verify ingredients for allergies and safe consumption, and follow safe cooking practices.
Ingredients
-
500 grams chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
-
3 tablespoon green curry paste (store-bought)
-
400 milliliters coconut milk (canned)
-
2 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
-
2 tablespoon fish sauce
-
1 teaspoon brown sugar
-
1 tablespoon lime juice
-
250 grams rice noodles (dry)
-
1 liter water (for boiling)
Instructions
-
1.
Prepare the Noodles:
Bring 1 liter of water to a boil in a medium pot. Once boiling, add 250 grams of rice noodles. Cook according to the package instructions (about 6-8 minutes) until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the noodles and set aside.
Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be tender but not mushy.
-
2.
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 500 grams of cut chicken breast and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, stirring occasionally.
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C.
-
3.
Add the Curry Sauce:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, add 3 tablespoons of green curry paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine for about 1 minute to release the aroma. Then, pour in 400 milliliters of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Be careful as the mixture can bubble up. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
-
4.
Combine and Serve:
Divide the cooked rice noodles among four bowls. Ladle the green curry chicken over the noodles, ensuring even distribution of chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Ensure each bowl has a balanced amount of noodles and curry.
Tips and Variations
- Substitute chicken breast with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option, ensuring to pre-cook them for a nice texture.
- Experiment with different proteins like shrimp or beef to customize the dish according to your taste preferences.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach to the curry for added nutrition and color, adding them after the chicken is cooked.
- For a spicier kick, include sliced fresh Thai chilies or a dash of chili flakes when adding the curry paste.
- Use whole wheat or other flavored noodles instead of traditional rice noodles for a unique twist.
- Prepare the curry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; just heat it up when needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts to enhance presentation and flavor.
- For a deeper flavor, toast the green curry paste in the pan for an extra minute before adding coconut milk.
- Use low-fat coconut milk for a lighter version without sacrificing too much creaminess.
- Pair with a side salad with a lime vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the curry.
Equipment Required
Suggested Pairings
Sides
-
These spring rolls add a crunchy texture to balance the creaminess of the curry.
-
The refreshing and tangy notes of the cucumber salad help cut through the richness of the green curry.
-
While rice noodles are used in the dish, steamed jasmine rice can serve as an additional base for those wanting a more traditional pairing.
-
This side adds a nutritious and vibrant green element, complementing the flavors without overpowering them.
-
A platter of Thai herbs like cilantro, mint, and basil allows guests to customize their flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Drinks
-
The creamy and sweet flavors of Thai iced tea provide a perfect balance to the spicy curry, enhancing the meal experience.
-
This light lager is refreshing and pairs excellently with the complexity of the green curry, elevating the flavors.
-
This non-alcoholic option cleanses the palate and offers a refreshing contrast to the rich curry, making it a great pairing.
-
The subtle sweetness and refreshing quality of coconut water complements the coconut milk in the curry subtly.
-
This sweet and creamy yogurt drink balances the heat of the curry, providing a cooling effect while also enhancing flavors.
Other Food Dishes
-
This classic Thai dessert offers a sweet end to the meal, providing a delightful contrast to the savory curry.
-
Starting with a spicy and sour soup sets the tone for a full Thai dining experience, enhancing the green curry's bold flavors.
-
This famous Thai noodle dish can be a wonderful alternative entree for guests, showcasing the versatility of Thai cuisine.
-
Serving a different curry allows for a variety of flavors on the table without much additional preparation effort.
-
The sweet and savory profile of this fried rice complements the green curry while adding a fun tropical twist.