Protein Sparing Thai Green Chicken Curry
Protein Sparing Thai Green Chicken Curry is a easy Thai recipe that serves 6. 265 calories per serving. Recipe by Cook with Mel on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 25 min
Cost: $13.80 total, $2.30 per serving
Ingredients
- 650 g Skinless Chicken Breast (Dice into bite‑size pieces; can use pre‑diced chicken)
- 84 g Thai Green Curry Paste (Store‑bought; 3 tablespoons)
- 12 g Fish Sauce (Thai fish sauce; 1 tablespoon)
- 400 ml Coconut Cream (Full‑fat coconut cream, not coconut milk)
- 10 g Fresh Cilantro Leaves (Chopped; optional garnish)
Instructions
Dice Chicken
Dice 650 g skinless chicken breast into bite‑size pieces.
Time: PT5M
Sauté Chicken
Heat the non‑stick pan over medium heat, add the chicken, and cook for about 5 minutes until the pieces turn white or develop a light golden color.
Time: PT5M
Add Curry Paste and Fish Sauce
Add 3 Tbsp Thai green curry paste and 1 Tbsp fish sauce to the pan and toss to coat the chicken evenly.
Time: PT1M
Simmer with Coconut Cream
Reduce the heat to medium‑low, pour in 400 ml coconut cream, stir, and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Time: PT10M
Season and Serve
Turn off the heat, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 265
- Protein
- 25 g
- Carbohydrates
- 2.7 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Keto, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Paleo‑Friendly
Allergens: Fish, Coconut
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Skinless Chicken Breast: Turkey breast, Firm tofu (for vegetarian version)
- Instead of Thai Green Curry Paste: Homemade green curry paste, Red curry paste (different flavor)
- Instead of Fish Sauce: Soy sauce (for non‑fish version), Tamari
- Instead of Coconut Cream: Coconut milk (thinner), Heavy cream (non‑keto)
- Instead of Fresh Cilantro Leaves: Thai basil, Fresh parsley
Equipment Needed
- Non‑Stick Pan
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- Small Bowl (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensuring chicken pieces are uniformly diced for even cooking.
- Cooking chicken until fully white/golden before adding paste.
- Gentle simmer with coconut cream to avoid curdling.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a high‑quality Thai green curry paste for authentic flavor.
- Choose full‑fat coconut cream; low‑fat versions will produce a watery sauce.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime juice for extra brightness if desired.
Troubleshooting
Sauce is too thin.
Continue simmering uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce, or stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra thickness.
Sauce curdles or separates.
Lower the heat immediately and whisk gently; add a splash of warm water or broth to bring it back together.
Chicken is still pink after simmering.
Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portion‑sized bags for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Do not keep at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Double the recipe and freeze individual portions; reheat gently on the stove.
- Add fresh cilantro after reheating to retain its bright flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Thai Green Curry in Thai cuisine?
Thai green curry (Gaeng Keow Wan) originates from Central Thailand and is traditionally made with fresh green chilies, herbs, and coconut milk. It reflects the Thai love for balancing spicy, sweet, salty, and aromatic flavors in a single dish.
What are the traditional regional variations of Thai Green Curry in Thailand?
In the north, green curry may be milder and use more fresh herbs, while in the south it often includes additional shrimp paste and a higher proportion of coconut milk for richness. Some regions add eggplant or bamboo shoots for texture.
How is Thai Green Curry traditionally served in Thailand?
Thai Green Curry is traditionally served hot over steamed jasmine rice or with rice noodles, accompanied by fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sometimes a side of sliced chilies for extra heat.
What occasions or celebrations is Thai Green Curry traditionally associated with in Thai culture?
Green curry is a common everyday family meal but is also served at gatherings, festivals, and celebrations because its bright color and aromatic profile are considered uplifting and festive.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Thai Green Curry versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include fresh green chilies, Thai basil, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and coconut cream. Substitutes like red curry paste or coconut milk can be used, but they change the flavor and texture of the classic green curry.
What other Thai dishes pair well with Keto Thai Green Curry?
Keto Thai Green Curry pairs nicely with cauliflower rice, steamed bok choy, or a simple cucumber‑lime salad. For a fuller meal, serve alongside Thai‑style grilled lemongrass chicken or a low‑carb papaya salad.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Keto Thai Green Curry?
Common mistakes include over‑cooking the curry paste, which can become bitter, letting the coconut cream boil vigorously (causing curdling), and not seasoning enough after simmering. Follow the gentle simmer step and taste before serving.
Why does this Keto Thai Green Curry recipe use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
Coconut cream provides a richer, thicker base that keeps the dish satisfying on a keto diet while delivering the authentic silky texture of traditional green curry. Coconut milk would be thinner and increase the carb count.
Can I make Keto Thai Green Curry ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the curry can be prepared in advance. Cool it to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on low heat and add fresh cilantro just before serving.
What does the YouTube channel Cook with Mel specialize in?
The YouTube channel Cook with Mel focuses on quick, health‑focused recipes such as keto, low‑carb, and high‑protein meals, often using minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques for busy home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Cook with Mel's approach to Thai cooking differ from other Thai cooking channels?
Cook with Mel adapts traditional Thai flavors to fit keto and low‑carb lifestyles, emphasizing ingredient swaps like coconut cream for milk and limiting carbs, whereas many Thai channels stick to classic, higher‑carb preparations.
Last updated: September 4, 2026
