Authentic Chicken Panang Curry is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of Thai cuisine, bringing together rich flavors and comforting aromas. In just 30 minutes, you can create a meal that is both quick and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy coconut milk base, aromatic spices, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Chicken Panang Curry
This Authentic Chicken Panang Curry recipe is not just any ordinary curry; it has unique flavors that will transport you to Thailand with every bite. Here are a few reasons to adore it:
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 30 minutes.
- Rich and creamy texture from authentic coconut milk.
- Adjustable spice levels for all palates.
- Packed with nutrients, making it a healthy dinner option.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
- Versatile—can be served with rice, noodles, or on its own.
- Features authentic Thai ingredients for genuine flavor.
- Great for beginners looking to explore Thai cuisine.
With its genuine Chicken Panang Curry taste, this dish showcases the best of Thai cuisine, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion.
Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Panang Curry
Gather these items:
- 5 pieces Dried red chilies (soaked in hot water)
- 1/4 cup Roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon Coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon Black peppercorns
- 4 pieces Cardamom pods
- 1 pinch Mace
- 3 pieces Kaffir lime leaves (fresh)
- 1/4 cup Chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon Shrimp paste (optional)
- 1 inch Galangal (sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 medium Onion (chopped)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 large Red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 large Yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 14 ounces Coconut milk
- 3 pieces Chopped kaffir lime leaves
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Thai fish sauce (or soy sauce)
- 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
How to Make Authentic Chicken Panang Curry Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Soak the dried red chilies in hot water for about 20 minutes, until they’ve softened.
- Step 2: Blend the soaked chilies with roasted peanuts, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, cardamom, mace, kaffir lime leaves, cilantro, shrimp paste, galangal, garlic, onion, and lemongrass until smooth.
- Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add the prepared Panang curry paste to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Step 5: Incorporate the chicken thighs into the pan and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Step 6: Stir in the chopped red and yellow bell peppers, coconut milk, chopped kaffir lime leaves, salt, sugar, and Thai fish sauce.
- Step 7: Simmer the curry on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Step 8: Finish by adding Thai basil leaves just before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Authentic Chicken Panang Curry
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients for the most authentic flavor.
- Adjust the chili quantity based on your heat preference.
- Let the curry simmer gently to enhance the flavors.
- Consider adding vegetables like bamboo shoots or eggplant for extra texture.
Best Ways to Serve Authentic Chicken Panang Curry
This curry pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Rice noodles for a different texture experience.
- Fresh cucumber salad to balance the dish’s richness.
How to Store and Reheat Authentic Chicken Panang Curry
To store, allow the curry to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This is a great homemade Chicken Panang Curry preparation that’s perfect for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Authentic Chicken Panang Curry
What’s the secret to perfect Authentic Chicken Panang Curry?
The secret lies in the balance of flavors and using fresh, quality ingredients. Make sure to blend the spices well to release their full flavors for a truly traditional Chicken Panang Curry.
Can I make Authentic Chicken Panang Curry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the curry ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat before serving!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Authentic Chicken Panang Curry?
To avoid common pitfalls, make sure not to overcook the chicken and always taste as you go to adjust seasoning. This will ensure a delicious real Chicken Panang Curry.
Variations of Authentic Chicken Panang Curry You Can Try
Here are some tasty variations:
- Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
- Add more vegetables like spinach or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Make it vegan by omitting the shrimp paste and using plant-based protein.
Whether you stick to the classic or mix it up, this original Chicken Panang Curry recipe is sure to impress!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler or Pumpkin Coffee Cake. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cookies and Irresistible Peach Upside Down Mini Cakes. You can also learn more about the health benefits of coconut milk to enhance your culinary experience.
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Authentic Chicken Panang Curry in 30 Minutes to Savor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Create an Authentic Chicken Panang Curry in just 30 minutes for a delightful and flavorful dinner experience.
Ingredients
- 5 pieces Dried red chilies (soaked in hot water)
- 1/4 cup Roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon Coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon Black peppercorns
- 4 pieces Cardamom pods
- 1 pinch Mace
- 3 pieces Kaffir lime leaves (fresh)
- 1/4 cup Chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon Shrimp paste (optional)
- 1 inch Galangal (sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 medium Onion (chopped)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 large Red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 large Yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 14 ounces Coconut milk
- 3 pieces Chopped kaffir lime leaves
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Thai fish sauce (or soy sauce)
- 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
Instructions
- Soak the dried red chilies in hot water for about 20 minutes, until they’ve softened.
- Blend the soaked chilies with roasted peanuts, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, cardamom, mace, kaffir lime leaves, cilantro, shrimp paste, galangal, garlic, onion, and lemongrass until smooth.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the prepared Panang curry paste to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the chicken thighs into the pan and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped red and yellow bell peppers, coconut milk, chopped kaffir lime leaves, salt, sugar, and Thai fish sauce.
- Simmer the curry on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Finish by adding Thai basil leaves just before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg