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Coconut Curry Chicken With Rice Noodles

A creamy, comforting coconut curry made with tender chicken, soft rice noodles, red curry paste, ginger, garlic, and fresh lime. This beginner-friendly dinner comes together in about 40 minutes and makes a flavorful meal for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 590

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 tbsp neutral cooking oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced or finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt, plus more to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro or sliced green onion, for serving
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium pot or large heatproof bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp kitchen knife
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Tongs or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Colander
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry and cut it into roughly 1-inch bite-size pieces.
  2. Combine the coconut milk, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and salt in a medium bowl until smooth.
  3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side and about 2 minutes on the second. Transfer it to a plate.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Cook the onion for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly golden.
  5. Add the garlic, ginger, and red curry paste. Stir constantly for 45 to 60 seconds, until fragrant.
  6. Pour the coconut milk mixture into the skillet. Stir along the bottom of the pan and bring it to a gentle simmer.
  7. Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Simmer for 6 to 8 minutes, until the thickest pieces reach 165°F (74°C).
  8. Prepare the rice noodles according to the package directions, usually about 4 to 6 minutes. Drain as soon as they are tender.
  9. Add the drained noodles to the curry. Toss gently for 1 to 2 minutes until coated. Add 1 to 3 tablespoons extra chicken broth if the sauce feels too thick.
  10. Turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice. Taste and adjust the salt or lime as needed. Serve with cilantro or green onion and lime wedges.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness. They stay juicy during simmering and are more forgiving if cooked a little longer.
  • Choose full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce. Light coconut milk works, but the curry will be thinner.
  • Adjust the curry paste to taste. Start with 1½ tablespoons if you prefer mild heat.
  • Do not overcook the noodles. Drain them while they are still slightly springy because they continue softening in the hot curry.
  • Keep the curry at a gentle simmer. A hard boil can make coconut milk look oily or separated.
  • Thin leftover curry with broth. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons broth or water while reheating.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat.