Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting

Creamy Thai Curry Ground Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and comforting one-pan dish. Tender ground chicken is cooked with jasmine rice in a rich, creamy Thai curry sauce, then garnished with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, red chili flakes, and lime wedges for a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness. Every bite is packed with Thai-inspired flavors and satisfying textures. Trust me, you’re going to love this quick and easy weeknight meal.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. By combining ground chicken and rice in a creamy curry sauce, it creates a convenient one-pan meal that is both hearty and aromatic. The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and fresh garnishes gives the dish depth, spice, and freshness in every bite.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Ground chicken Thai curry dishes are a modern adaptation of classic Thai curry meals. Traditionally, Thai curry is served with cooked proteins and rice separately, but this one-pan approach simplifies the process and ensures the flavors are fully integrated.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Thai Curry Ground Chicken and Rice

Versatile: Great for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday ingredients for big flavor.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.

Customizable: Adjust spice levels or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or peas.

Crowd-Pleasing: Aromatic, creamy, and full of flavor.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Can prepare curry sauce ahead and combine with rice and chicken when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully while maintaining creaminess.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use jasmine rice for authentic fragrance and texture.
• Cook ground chicken first until golden for richer flavor.
• Stir gently when combining curry sauce to avoid breaking rice grains.
• Add lime at the end for brightness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet or pan: For cooking curry and rice together.
Mixing bowl: For combining curry sauce ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and folding.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate quantities.

Ingredients in Creamy Thai Curry Ground Chicken and Rice

Ground chicken: 300 g, tender protein base.
Jasmine rice: 1 cup, fragrant rice cooked in curry sauce.
Coconut milk: 1 cup, creamy texture for sauce.
Red curry paste: 2 tablespoons, adds heat and depth.
Fish sauce: 1 teaspoon, savory umami.
Lime: 1 lime, cut into wedges, freshness and tang.
Peanuts: 2 tablespoons, chopped, crunchy garnish.
Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped, fresh herb topping.
Red chili flakes: 1 teaspoon, optional, heat.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, aromatic base.
Onion: 1 small, chopped, adds sweetness.
Vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground chicken: Ground turkey or shrimp.
Jasmine rice: Basmati or long-grain rice.
Coconut milk: Light coconut milk or heavy cream.
Red curry paste: Thai yellow curry paste for a milder version.

Ingredient Spotlight

Coconut milk: Creates creamy sauce and balances spice.
Red curry paste: Provides authentic Thai flavor and vibrant color.

Instructions for Making Creamy Thai Curry Ground Chicken and Rice

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Combine Ingredients: Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Add ground chicken and cook until lightly browned.
4. Assemble the Dish: Stir in red curry paste, coconut milk, and fish sauce. Mix well.
5. Cook to Perfection: Add jasmine rice and simmer until rice is cooked and sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
6. Finishing Touches: Remove from heat, top with chopped peanuts, cilantro, red chili flakes, and lime wedges.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

Creamy sauce coats tender ground chicken and fluffy rice, while peanuts add crunch and lime provides brightness. The combination balances creaminess, heat, and freshness for a complete meal in every bite.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Soak rice briefly for extra fluffy texture.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Garnish with cilantro and peanuts just before serving for best texture.

What to Avoid

• Overcooking coconut milk, which can separate.
• Stirring too vigorously, breaking rice grains.
• Skipping lime wedges, which add essential freshness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 480

Note: Approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prepare curry sauce in advance and store in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat and combine with rice and chicken before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Thai Curry Ground Chicken and Rice

Serve hot in a skillet or bowl, garnished with peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges. Pair with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Use leftovers as a filling for lettuce wraps or combine with cooked noodles for a quick stir-fry.

Additional Tips

Add extra chili flakes for heat or more coconut milk for creamier texture. Fresh herbs like Thai basil elevate flavor.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve directly in the skillet with lime wedges and garnished with peanuts and fresh cilantro for visual appeal and flavor.

Variations to Try

• Add bell peppers or peas for extra vegetables.
• Use shrimp or tofu instead of ground chicken.
• Make spicier with additional red curry paste or chili flakes.
• Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen rice cakes?

Not applicable; use jasmine rice only.

2. Is this dish spicy?

Mild by default; adjust red curry paste or chili flakes for heat.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, coconut milk keeps it naturally dairy-free.

4. Can I make ahead?

Prepare sauce in advance; add rice and chicken before serving.

5. Can I add more protein?

Yes, shrimp or tofu can be added.

6. Can I use another type of rice?

Basmati or long-grain rice works fine.

7. Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, adjust spice level to taste.

8. How long does it take to cook rice in sauce?

Approximately 15 minutes until tender.

9. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, store in airtight container and reheat gently.

10. Can I garnish differently?

Yes, use Thai basil, green onions, or crushed cashews.

Conclusion

Creamy Thai Curry Ground Chicken and Rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings the best of Thai flavors to your plate. Creamy, spicy, and garnished with crunch and freshness, this one-pan dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Once you try it, it will become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

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