Name: Thai Peanut Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 carrots, cut into bite-size pieces; 2 medium potatoes, cut into bite-size pieces; 1/2 yellow onion, diced; 2 chicken breasts, cubed; 2 Tbsp. olive oil; 2 tsp. ground ginger; 2 tsp. minced garlic; 1 – 4oz. jar red curry paste; 4 tsp. soy sauce; juice from 1 lime; 2 cans coconut milk; 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp. Peanut butter; 5 Tbsp. brown sugar

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 5 reviews

If you’re craving cozy comfort food with a twist, this Thai Peanut Curry Recipe will absolutely steal your heart (and your taste buds). Creamy coconut milk, tender chicken, colorful veggies, and that signature peanutty richness all come together in one glorious skillet. The best part? You can have this wholesome, flavor-packed dinner on the table in just 30 minutes. Trust me, if you’re a fan of Thai flavors and want something that feels both exotic and homestyle, this curry is the answer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of simple but essential ingredients is all it takes to whip up the unforgettable flavors of this Thai Peanut Curry Recipe. Each item plays a special role, from adding depth and creaminess to bringing a pop of color or a burst of freshness.

Carrots: Their sweetness and snap are perfect for soaking up all that luscious curry sauce.
Potatoes: Creamy and mild, potatoes balance the bold flavors and add comforting texture.
Yellow onion: Diced onion brings savory, aromatic depth right from the start.
Chicken breasts: For tender, protein-packed bites that cook up in minutes.
Olive oil (or coconut/vegetable oil): Essential for sauteing—the oil you choose subtly influences the final flavor.
Ground ginger: Lends unmistakable warmth and gentle spice, key to authentic Thai-inspired taste.
Minced garlic: That familiar garlicky punch is a must for any great curry.
Red curry paste: The heart of this dish; it’s where you get that deep, complex curry flavor.
Coconut milk: The classic ingredient for creamy, slightly sweet curry sauce that makes each bite luxurious.
Peanut butter: This is what makes our Thai Peanut Curry Recipe unique—creamy, nutty, and unforgettable!
Brown sugar: A little sweetness ties everything together, balancing heat and savory notes.
Soy sauce: Adds that robust, umami dimension that rounds out every spoonful.
Lime juice: Just a squeeze for a burst of tangy brightness that wakes up the whole dish.

How to Make Thai Peanut Curry Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies

Start by heating your oil of choice in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion, chopped carrots, and potatoes. Give them a good stir and let them sauté for about 4-5 minutes. You want those veggies to just begin softening and for the onion to get fragrant—this is where that rich, savory base begins.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices

Next, drop in the cubed chicken, ground ginger, minced garlic, and red curry paste. Mix everything together thoroughly to coat the chicken and veggies in that fiery red spice. Let them sauté for another couple of minutes so the chicken just starts to firm up and all the flavors get a head start mingling.

Step 3: Pour in Coconut Milk and Simmer

Now pour both cans of coconut milk over the sizzling mixture. Lower the heat to medium-low and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let this bubble away for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until your carrots and potatoes are soft and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Make it Peanutty and Sweet

Here’s where the magic really happens. Stir in the peanut butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, and lime juice. Watch the sauce turn velvety and rich as it blends together. Simmer for another 4-5 minutes—just long enough for everything to thicken and take on that distinct, craveable Thai Peanut Curry Recipe flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Scoop generous ladlefuls over fluffy jasmine, white, or brown rice, then dive right in. Get ready for those compliments to start rolling in—no one will believe you whipped this up in just half an hour.

How to Serve Thai Peanut Curry Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing transforms your Thai Peanut Curry Recipe from simple dinner to restaurant-worthy experience. Scatter a handful of chopped peanuts on top for irresistible crunch, and maybe add fresh cilantro or a few slices of red chili for color and zest. A wedge of lime on the side invites everyone to customize each bite with extra brightness.

Side Dishes

This curry pairs famously with any steamed rice you love, but fluffy jasmine rice is my personal go-to for soaking up every bit of sauce. You might also try it with warm naan or roti for mopping up the curry, and a cool cucumber salad or quick pickled veggies make the flavors pop even more.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Thai Peanut Curry Recipe in individual bowls over rice, or make a DIY curry bar with toppings like fresh herbs, sliced scallions, or crushed peanuts so everyone gets to customize. It’s fantastic tucked into lettuce wraps for a lighter meal, or even spooned over roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty, wholesome variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Thai Peanut Curry Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and meld beautifully overnight, and the sauce gets even creamier.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze your curry! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll keep its magic for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your curry gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s a bit too thick, splash in a spoonful of coconut milk or water to revive that velvety sauce. The microwave works fine too—just cover and use short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I make this Thai Peanut Curry Recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for tofu or just add more veggies like bell peppers and snap peas. Make sure your curry paste is vegan (some brands contain shrimp paste), and use your favorite plant-based protein for a fully vegan feast.

Is this curry very spicy?

The red curry paste adds a moderate heat level, but it’s easy to adjust. Use less paste for a milder curry, or add extra if you like things fiery. For little ones or spice-sensitive eaters, start on the lower end and let everyone add chili flakes or hot sauce to taste.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, and it’s delicious! Crunchy peanut butter gives the sauce extra texture and little bursts of nutty flavor. If you prefer an ultra-smooth sauce, stick with creamy—but honestly, both work wonderfully.

What kind of potatoes are best?

Yukon golds or red potatoes are my top picks because they hold their shape nicely and absorb the flavors beautifully. Russets work in a pinch, but they might break down a bit more in the sauce.

Can I double this Thai Peanut Curry Recipe?

Definitely! This recipe easily doubles if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for the week. Use a bigger pot and maybe add a splash more coconut milk if things start looking too thick.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Peanut Curry Recipe is the kind of dish that turns any weeknight into a little celebration. It’s quick, satisfying, and brimming with inviting Thai flavors. I can’t wait for you to try it—don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!