Thai yellow curry brings the warmth of sunlit markets to your kitchen with a golden blend of spices in creamy coconut milk. Turmeric, ginger, and garlic infuse tender chicken or tofu with gentle, earthy sweetness, while carrots and potatoes soak up the rich, comforting sauce. A splash of soy and a squeeze of lime brighten each bite, keeping the flavors lively and balanced. Easy to make and deeply cozy, this curry turns weeknights into something special and leaves the kitchen smelling irresistible long after the last spoonful.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This thai yellow curry
- It’s a creamy delight that warms your soul.
- Packed with vibrant flavors that dance on your palate.
- Quick and easy to whip up for any weeknight dinner.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!

thai yellow curry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Step 2: Add garlic, ginger, and yellow curry paste. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 3: Pour in half the coconut milk, stir, and bring to a simmer.
- Step 4: Add chicken pieces and cook for 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Add potatoes and onion. Pour in the remaining coconut milk.
- Step 6: Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Step 7: Season with fish sauce and sugar, stirring to combine.
- Step 8: Serve garnished with cilantro leaves and lime wedges.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Fat | 25g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 20g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Thai yellow curry at home!

- 2 tbsp yellow curry paste – adds authentic flavor
- 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk – for creaminess
- 500 g chicken thighs – sliced, tender protein
- 2 potatoes – peeled and cubed, adds heartiness
- 1 onion – sliced, for sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic – minced, aromatic
- 1-inch piece ginger – grated, for warmth
- 1 tbsp fish sauce – enhances umami
- 1 tsp sugar – balances flavors
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil – for cooking
- fresh cilantro leaves – for garnish
- lime wedges – for serving
How to Make Thai Yellow Curry
This delightful Thai yellow curry is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy to whip up. With a preparation time of about 10 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add garlic, ginger, and yellow curry paste. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Coconut Milk
Pour in half the coconut milk, stir, and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook Chicken
Add chicken pieces and cook for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
Add potatoes and onion. Pour in the remaining coconut milk.
Step 6: Simmer
Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: Season
Season with fish sauce and sugar, stirring to combine.
Step 8: Serve
Serve garnished with cilantro leaves and lime wedges.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Thai |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Dietary | Contains chicken |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | With fresh cilantro and lime wedges |
Pro Tips for Making thai yellow curry
- Use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less curry paste.
- Let the curry simmer longer for deeper flavor.
- Serve with jasmine rice for the perfect pairing.
- Add a splash of coconut milk at the end for extra creaminess.
How to Serve this thai yellow curry
- Serve over fluffy jasmine rice for a classic pairing.
- Pair with warm naan or roti for a delightful twist.
- Add a side of fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Top with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra zing.
- Enjoy with crispy spring rolls for a fun appetizer combo.
- Serve alongside a light coconut soup for a complete meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your Thai yellow curry later is easy and convenient:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the curry to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the curry completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Leave some space for expansion when sealing.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen curry in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess if needed.
- Ensure it’s heated through before serving.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What goes in a Thai yellow curry?
A traditional Thai yellow curry typically includes a variety of ingredients such as coconut milk, yellow curry paste, vegetables like potatoes and carrots, and a protein source like chicken, tofu, or shrimp. You can also add herbs like cilantro and lime for extra flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a creamy and aromatic dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
2. Is Thai yellow curry very hot?
Thai yellow curry is generally milder compared to other Thai curries, such as red or green curry. The heat level can vary depending on the amount of curry paste used and the specific brand. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can adjust the amount of curry paste or add more coconut milk to balance the heat. It’s all about finding the right balance for your taste buds!
3. What is the difference between red and yellow Thai curry?
The main difference between red and yellow Thai curry lies in the ingredients used in the curry paste. Yellow curry paste typically contains turmeric, which gives it a distinct yellow color and a slightly sweet flavor, while red curry paste is made with red chilies, resulting in a spicier and more robust flavor. Additionally, yellow curry often has a creamier texture due to the use of coconut milk, making it a comforting choice for many.
4. Is yellow curry hotter than green?
Generally, green curry is considered to be hotter than yellow curry. Green curry paste is made from fresh green chilies, which pack a spicier punch compared to the milder ingredients in yellow curry paste. However, the heat level can vary based on the specific recipe and the amount of curry paste used, so it’s always a good idea to taste as you go and adjust according to your preference!
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the recipe for this delightful Thai yellow curry, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Remember, it’s all about the joy of creating something delicious. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!

