I absolutely love Thai cuisine, but living in a small mountain town means I can’t always get my hands on authentic ingredients. That said, I’ve learned that you don’t need a perfect pantry to make a delicious, satisfying Thai-inspired meal at home. This Easy Thai Green Curry recipe is proof! It’s packed with bold, aromatic flavors, and while it might not be totally traditional, it will definitely scratch that curry itch.
This recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy, fragrant coconut sauce, but you can also make it with shrimp. Or, if you prefer a plant-based version, you can easily swap in tofu and omit the fish sauce. Any way you make it, it’s a flavorful, cozy meal that comes together with simple techniques.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Thai Green Curry
Big, Bold Thai Flavors – This dish captures the balance of salty, sweet, sour, spicy, and bitter that makes Thai food so addictive.
Customizable & Adaptable – Use chicken, shrimp or tofu, switch up the veggies, and adjust the spice level to your liking.
Easy to Make at Home – No need for hard-to-find ingredients! This recipe works with pantry-friendly swaps.
Meal-Prep Friendly – Chop the veggies in advance, and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day!
Instant Pot or Stovetop Options – Whether you want a quick pressure-cooked version or prefer a traditional stovetop simmer, both methods work beautifully.
Flavor Profile
Thai cuisine is known for its balanced blend of five essential flavors: salty, sweet, sour, spicy and bitter. Every ingredient plays a role in achieving this harmony, making each bite complex and satisfying.
- Salty: Fish sauce is a key ingredient providing saltiness
- Sweet: Provided by the sugar and natural sweetness of the coconut milk
- Sour: Achieved with the lime juice and fish sauce
- Spicy: The Serrano pepper and green curry paste bring the heat (I like these brands: Mae Ploy, Aroy-D, and Maesri)
- Bitter: Thai basil and certain vegetables like eggplant contribute slightly bitter notes
Health Benefits
- Rich, Creamy Coconut Milk: Contains healthy fats that support brain function and energy
- Thai Curry Paste: The blend of chili, lemongrass, galangal, and spices delivers deep, aromatic heat and contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties
- Chicken/Shrimp/Tofu: All are a good source of protein
- Fish Sauce: Provides essential amino acids and minerals
- Coconut and Palm Sugars: Both have a lower glycemic index than refined sugar
- Vegetables: Offer fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, with each one contributing a different texture and taste to balance the dish
- Serrano and Bell Peppers: These peppers are high in vitamin C, boosting immune health
- Thai Basil: A source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants; may support healthy digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties
- Lime: A great source of vitamin C for immune support; the zest and juice brighten the dish and balance the richness of the coconut milk
This Easy Thai Green Curry is rich, cozy, and packed with flavor—even if you have to make a few ingredient swaps. Whether you’re cooking it up with chicken, shrimp, or making it vegan with tofu, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a favorite.
