Creamy Thai Coconut Curry Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors yet incredibly comforting, then this Creamy Thai Coconut Curry Pasta is about to become your new favorite. It’s a beautiful fusion of rich coconut milk, spicy red curry, and tender chicken that hugs every strand of pasta with a luscious sauce. The fresh crunch of snap peas and sweetness from the red bell peppers add layers of texture and brightness, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish delivers that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory notes with minimal fuss.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Creamy Thai Coconut Curry Pasta recipe strikes the perfect chord between indulgence and freshness. What sets it apart is the use of coconut milk, which creates a silky, dairy-free sauce that’s rich without being heavy. The red curry paste adds a vibrant kick that complements the subtle sweetness from brown sugar and bell peppers. Plus, tossing in snap peas gives it a fresh snap that elevates the dish visually and texturally. I also love how versatile it is—you can swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp to suit your preferences. It’s a quick, one-pot wonder that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for those nights when you want something special without the stress.

What’s in the Bowl

• 8 oz pasta of choice – I recommend linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for this recipe.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil – Adds a subtle tropical aroma and helps sauté the chicken and veggies.
• 1 cup diced chicken breast – Tender protein that soaks up the curry flavors beautifully.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Brings a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
• 1 cup snap peas – For freshness and a slight crisp bite.
• 1 tablespoon red curry paste – The spicy and aromatic heart of the sauce.
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk – Creates the creamy and luscious base.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds the perfect salty umami depth.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Balances the heat with subtle sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For aromatic depth and savory warmth.
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated – Adds a zingy brightness.
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish – Brightens and freshens the final dish.
• Lime wedges, for serving – A squeeze of lime juice intensifies the flavors.

Appliances & Accessories

• Large pot – To cook the pasta al dente.
• Large skillet or wok – For sautéing chicken, veggies, and making the curry sauce.
• Grater or microplane – To grate fresh ginger.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping chicken and vegetables.
• Colander – To drain the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce evenly.

Step-by-Step: Creamy Thai Coconut Curry Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of 8 oz pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more coconut oil if needed. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and snap peas. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Build the Curry Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1 tablespoon red curry paste and cook for another minute to release its flavors.

Step 5: Add Coconut Milk and Seasonings

Pour in the entire can of coconut milk, stirring to combine with the curry paste. Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the pasta. The citrusy zing perfectly balances the creamy, spicy sauce.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

• Spring: Swap snap peas with asparagus tips or sugar snap peas for fresh crunch.
• Summer: Add thinly sliced zucchini or fresh corn kernels for sweetness.
• Fall: Use butternut squash cubes roasted until tender instead of bell peppers for a cozy twist.
• Winter: Substitute red bell pepper with roasted red peppers or sautéed kale for warmth and color.

Method to the Madness

This dish thrives on layering flavors and textures. First, cooking the chicken separately allows it to develop a golden crust, which adds depth. Sautéing the vegetables just until crisp retains their vibrant color and fresh bite. The magic happens when you bloom the red curry paste in the oil, releasing its aromatic oils to infuse every spoonful.

Using coconut milk instead of cream gives the sauce that luscious creaminess without heaviness, making it feel light yet indulgent. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar brings the perfect balance of salty and sweet, rounding out the spice from the curry paste. Tossing the pasta in the sauce ensures every strand is coated, while a touch of reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency to your liking.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Leftovers of this Creamy Thai Coconut Curry Pasta store beautifully. Place any uneaten portions in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce, warming gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for best results. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Questions People Ask

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken breast for firm tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant to keep it hearty. Make sure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly, and the dish remains just as delicious.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Long noodles like linguine or fettuccine work perfectly because they capture the creamy curry sauce well. However, short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni are great if you prefer more bite-sized pieces. Choose your favorite shape to personalize the dish.

How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?

This Creamy Thai Coconut Curry Pasta has a moderate level of heat thanks to the red curry paste. If you prefer it milder, start with half the amount of curry paste and add more to taste. For extra spice, you can add fresh chili slices or a dash of chili flakes.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance to save time. Cook the pasta and make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best texture. Leftovers also reheat well, making it a convenient meal for busy days.

Weekend Projects

• Try making your own Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta for a different creamy pasta experience.
• Whip up some crispy Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes to serve alongside your pasta for a hearty meal.
• Experiment with homemade curry paste from scratch to intensify the flavors.
• Make your own coconut milk at home to elevate the creaminess and freshness of the sauce.

Before You Go

This Creamy Thai Coconut Curry Pasta is one of those recipes that brings together the best of both worlds: the comforting familiarity of pasta with the exciting, bold flavors of Thai cuisine. It’s a quick, nourishing, and utterly satisfying meal that fits seamlessly into any weeknight or weekend dinner rotation. The balance of creamy coconut, spicy curry, fresh veggies, and tender chicken makes this dish a crowd-pleaser every time. Don’t forget to garnish with cilantro and squeeze fresh lime juice for that extra pop of brightness that ties everything together beautifully.

Give this recipe a try and watch how it effortlessly becomes a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it up for family or meal prepping for the week, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and full plates. Enjoy!

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