Thai Yellow Curry Chicken is the mildest and most comforting of all Thai curries, known for its golden-yellow color, silky coconut sauce, and gently spiced warmth. Influenced by Indian cuisine, yellow curry gets its beautiful hue and flavor from turmeric, cumin, and coriander, making it aromatic rather than fiery.

The rich coconut milk blends perfectly with tender chicken, soft vegetables, and warming spices to create a curry that is soothing, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. This dish is ideal for those who love bold flavor without extreme heat. Whether you are new to Thai cooking or simply craving a cozy, creamy meal, Thai Yellow Curry Chicken is the perfect introduction to authentic Thai comfort food.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Thai Yellow Curry Chicken because it is incredibly comforting yet full of layered flavors. The gentle warmth from turmeric and spices makes it soothing rather than overwhelming. The coconut milk creates a velvety texture that coats every piece of chicken beautifully.

I especially love how family-friendly this curry is—kids, spice-sensitive eaters, and curry lovers all enjoy it equally. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for relaxed dinners and cozy evenings.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Perfect introduction to Thai curries for beginners
Mild spice level with deep flavor
Creamy, rich, and comforting
Easy to cook in one pan
Highly customizable with vegetables and protein
Great for meal prep and leftovers

If you enjoy warm, aromatic dishes without heavy heat, this curry is absolutely essential to try.

Recipe Overview

Dish Name: Thai Yellow Curry Chicken

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories (Approx): 440–460 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Curry

500 g boneless chicken (thigh or breast), sliced
2–3 tbsp Thai yellow curry paste
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 can (400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
1 cup chicken stock or water
1 medium onion, sliced
2 medium potatoes, cubed
1 carrot, sliced
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tsp brown sugar or palm sugar
½ tsp turmeric powder (optional for deeper color)
1 cinnamon stick (optional, for warmth)
2–3 kaffir lime leaves (optional)

Optional Garnish

Fresh cilantro
Red chili slices
Lime wedges

Cooking Directions (Quick Overview)

Fry yellow curry paste in oil until aromatic.
Add chicken and coat with curry paste.
Add coconut milk and stock.
Add vegetables and seasonings.
Simmer until chicken and potatoes are tender.
Garnish and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare All Ingredients

Slice chicken into thin strips. Peel and cube potatoes, slice carrot and onion, and measure all ingredients before starting.

Step 2: Fry the Yellow Curry Paste

Heat oil in a deep pan or heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Add yellow curry paste and fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. This step is essential to release the spices.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Add sliced chicken to the paste. Stir and cook for about 3–4 minutes until the chicken turns white and gets coated with the curry paste.

Step 4: Add Coconut Milk and Stock

Pour in coconut milk and chicken stock. Stir gently and bring to a slow simmer.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Add potatoes, carrots, onion, fish sauce, sugar, turmeric, cinnamon stick, and kaffir lime leaves. Simmer for 15–18 minutes until the potatoes are soft and chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Final Taste and Rest

Taste and adjust salt or sweetness as needed. Remove from heat and let it rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Thai Yellow Curry Chicken

Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice
Pair with roti, naan, or flatbread
Serve with sticky rice for Thai authenticity
Add a side of fresh cucumber salad
Finish with lime juice and cilantro garnish

Recipe Tips

Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness
Do not rush the simmer—slow cooking makes richer flavor
Full-fat coconut milk gives the best texture
Cut potatoes into even-sized cubes for uniform cooking
Adjust sweetness carefully—yellow curry should be gently sweet, not sugary

Variations (In Detail)

1. Vegetarian Yellow Curry

Replace chicken with tofu, chickpeas, cauliflower, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.

2. Seafood Yellow Curry

Use shrimp, white fish, or scallops. Add seafood at the last 5 minutes of cooking.

3. Pineapple Yellow Curry

Add pineapple chunks for a sweet tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with turmeric spices.

4. Extra Creamy Version

Add 2–3 tablespoons of coconut cream along with coconut milk.

5. Low-Carb Yellow Curry

Replace potatoes with zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheat slowly on the stove or microwave

Freezing:

Freeze for up to 2 months
Use freezer-safe airtight containers
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating

Note: Potatoes may change texture slightly after freezing but the flavor remains excellent.

Special Equipment Needed

Heavy-bottom pan, wok, or deep pot
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

No special appliances required—just everyday kitchen tools.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Is Thai Yellow Curry spicy?
No, it is the mildest Thai curry and perfect for people who prefer gentle heat.

Q2. Can I use store-bought yellow curry paste?
Yes, it works perfectly and saves time.

Q3. Can I make this curry dairy-free?
Yes, coconut milk is naturally dairy-free.

Q4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.

Q5. What can I substitute for potatoes?
You can use sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or baby corn.

Conclusion

Thai Yellow Curry Chicken is the ultimate comfort curry—warm, creamy, aromatic, and gently spiced. It delivers rich Thai flavors without overpowering heat, making it ideal for family dinners, beginners, and anyone who loves soothing, flavorful food. The tender chicken, soft potatoes, and velvety coconut sauce create a dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Whether paired with jasmine rice, flatbread, or sticky rice, this curry promises pure comfort in every spoonful. Once you try it, Thai Yellow Curry Chicken is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.