Name: Chicken Panang Curry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 tbsp oil; 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525g/1.1lbs, chopped into bite-size chunks); Pinch salt and pepper; 1 onion, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced; 1 tbsp ginger paste; 2 tbsp Panang curry paste; 2 tbsp peanut butter; 240 ml (1 cup) chicken stock; 400 ml (14 oz) tin full-fat coconut milk; 1 tbsp fish sauce; 2 tbsp lime juice (juice of approx. 1 lime); 2 tbsp light brown sugar; 10 Thai basil leaves (plus 8-12 more for garnish); 1 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp cold water to form a slurry); Boiled jasmine or long grain rice; 2 tbsp chopped unsalted peanuts; 2 spring onions (scallions), chopped

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 77 reviews

If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors all in one bowl, then you have to try this Chicken Panang Curry Recipe. This Thai-inspired curry is rich and comforting, with tender chicken pieces swimming in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with fragrant Panang curry paste and subtle peanut notes. Every bite delivers a symphony of textures and tastes that make it an absolute favorite for cozy dinners or impressing friends. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that proves authentic Thai cuisine doesn’t have to be complicated to be utterly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

On a white marbled surface, there are several white bowls and glass bowls arranged neatly. The center has a white bowl filled with raw pink chicken chunks. To the right, a glass bowl holds steamed white rice, and next to it is another glass bowl with light golden oil. Above the chicken, a glass bowl contains small black peppercorns. Above that, a white bowl holds garlic cloves with their skins. To the left of the chicken, a small white bowl has granulated white sugar. Below the chicken, a plate with a white interior and light brown edges holds vibrant slices of red and orange bell peppers. Next to it, a glass bowl is filled with pale brown cashews. Fresh green basil leaves lie on the left side with some multicolored peppercorns in a small glass bowl nearby. The whole setup is clean and organized. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to this vibrant, flavorsome dish. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s bringing heat, creaminess, or brightness, and together they create that signature Panang curry experience.

2 tbsp oil: For searing the chicken to a nice golden color that locks in juiciness.

3 chicken breasts (chopped): The main protein, cut into bite-sized chunks for quick, even cooking.
Pinch salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
1 onion (sliced): Adds sweetness and depth to the curry base.

1 red bell pepper (sliced): Introduces crispness and a pop of color.
1 yellow bell pepper (sliced): Balances sweetness and brightens the dish visually.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Essential aromatic that brings warmth.
1 tbsp ginger paste: Adds a zesty, fresh kick to the curry.

2 tbsp Panang curry paste: The heart of the dish offering complex, spicy, and fragrant notes.
2 tbsp peanut butter: Creamy richness with a subtle nutty undertone that makes this curry unique.
240 ml chicken stock: A flavorful liquid base that enhances the sauce’s savory depth.

400 ml full-fat coconut milk: Creates the luxurious, silky texture that balances the curry’s spices.
1 tbsp fish sauce: Adds umami and authentic saltiness.
2 tbsp lime juice: Fresh acidity that brightens and balances the richness of the coconut milk.
2 tbsp light brown sugar: Sweetens gently and smooths out all the bold flavors.

10 Thai basil leaves: Offers an aromatic herbal note essential to traditional Panang curry.
1 tbsp cornflour slurry: Thickens the sauce to the perfect luscious consistency.
Boiled jasmine or long grain rice: The perfect base for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce.

2 tbsp chopped unsalted peanuts: Adds crunch and extra nutty flavor as a garnish.
2 spring onions (chopped): Fresh color and mild oniony bite for garnish.
8-12 extra Thai basil leaves: For finishing the dish with fragrance and beauty.

How to Make Chicken Panang Curry Recipe

A close-up of a black pan with a colorful curry inside, showing three main layers: at the bottom, a creamy orange sauce with a smooth texture; in the middle, bright red and green bell pepper strips with soft white onion pieces; on top, fresh dark green spinach leaves, all mixed together with small pieces of cooked light brown chicken. A wooden spatula is stirring the mixture, positioned on the right side of the pan, partly dipped in the sauce. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating the oil in a large skillet. Add your chopped chicken breasts and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sear the chicken pieces until they develop a light golden-brown crust on the outside. This searing locks in the juices and builds flavor for your curry. Once browned, set the chicken aside temporarily.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, toss in your sliced onion along with the red and yellow bell peppers. Cook them until they soften, releasing their natural sweetness and becoming tender. This step adds wonderful texture and vibrant colors that make the dish visually inviting.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Curry Paste

Now, stir in your minced garlic, ginger paste, and the star ingredient—Panang curry paste. Cook this mixture just until you start to smell the fragrant spices and chili oils releasing their magic. This step is crucial for building that deep, rich curry flavor.

Step 4: Mix in Peanut Butter and Liquids

Add the peanut butter to the pan and stir until it melds smoothly with the other ingredients. Then pour in chicken stock followed by the creamy coconut milk. This creates the silky, luscious sauce that makes the Panang curry so irresistible.

Step 5: Season the Curry

Enhance the sauce by stirring in fish sauce, lime juice, and light brown sugar. These ingredients balance the heat and creaminess with layers of saltiness, acidity, and sweetness. Let everything simmer gently for about five minutes to marry the flavors.

Step 6: Return Chicken and Simmer

Return the seared chicken chunks to your bubbling curry. Continue simmering until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and tender. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and perfectly juicy.

Step 7: Add Basil and Thicken the Sauce

Toss in the Thai basil leaves and your cornflour slurry. Stir gently as the sauce thickens to a rich, glossy finish that will coat your chicken and veggies beautifully.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Dish out the curry piping hot over a bed of steamed jasmine or long-grain rice. This allows the rice to soak up all that incredible sauce for a sublime dining experience.

How to Serve Chicken Panang Curry Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Chicken Panang Curry Recipe, sprinkle chopped unsalted peanuts, sliced spring onions, and extra fresh Thai basil leaves on top just before serving. These garnishes add delightful crunch, vivid color, and an extra punch of herbal aroma that rounds out the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

While the curry is delicious on its own with rice, pairing it with some crispy vegetable spring rolls or a light cucumber salad can add refreshing textures and coolness to balance the richness of the curry. Steamed greens like bok choy or snap peas are also excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Chicken Panang Curry Recipe in small coconut bowls or decorative ramekins, garnished with an edible flower or a lime wedge. This not only looks beautiful but makes for a charming presentation at dinner parties or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Panang Curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it a great option for ready meals or next-day lunches.

Freezing

This curry freezes well, just be sure to cool it completely before packing into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to two months without losing any of its delicious qualities, perfect for meal prepping or saving for busy weeks.

Reheating

Gently reheat your curry on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from separating. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too; cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more tender and flavorful and work beautifully in this Panang curry. Just be mindful they may take a little longer to cook fully compared to breasts.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

You can replace chicken with firm tofu or a mix of mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian variation. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and double-check that your Panang curry paste is free from fish sauce or shrimp paste.

How spicy is Chicken Panang Curry?

This recipe balances heat with creaminess, so it typically has a mild to medium spice level. You can always adjust the amount of curry paste to suit your heat preference.

What can I substitute for peanut butter?

If you have a peanut allergy or want a different twist, try almond butter or cashew butter. They add a similar creamy, nutty texture but with subtle flavor differences.

Can I prepare parts of the recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can chop vegetables and make the cornflour slurry in advance. Even cooking and seasoning the chicken ahead saves time. When ready, just combine everything and finish the cooking process; it’s great for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about sharing a bowl of homemade Chicken Panang Curry Recipe with loved ones. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with complex flavors that make every mouthful a delight. Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or a seasoned fan, I can promise this recipe will become one of your go-tos for an easy yet impressive meal. So gather those ingredients, turn up the heat in your kitchen, and dive into this incredible culinary journey—you won’t regret it!