Go Back

Thai Red Curry Chicken with Bamboo Shoots

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Curry:
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400ml) coconut milk (full-fat preferred)
  • 1 cup bamboo shoots (canned or fresh, drained)
  • 1 red bell pepper – sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper – sliced
  • 1 small onion – thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar (or palm sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 2–3 kaffir lime leaves (optional but authentic)
  • ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • For Garnish:
  • Fresh Thai basil leaves or cilantro
  • Sliced red chili (optional, for extra heat)
  • To Serve:
  • Steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare Ingredients : Slice the chicken into thin strips. Drain and rinse bamboo shoots. Chop vegetables and keep them ready.
  • Step 2: Heat the Curry Base : In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium heat. Add the red curry paste and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened.
  • Step 3: Add the Coconut Milk : Slowly pour in half of the coconut milk, stirring to blend the curry paste smoothly. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  • Step 4: Cook the Chicken : Add the sliced chicken to the pan. Stir to coat evenly with the curry mixture. Cook until the chicken starts turning opaque, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Step 5: Add Vegetables and Seasoning : Stir in bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and onion. Add the remaining coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Add kaffir lime leaves if using. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
  • Step 6: Finish with Lime Juice : Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice. Adjust seasoning to taste (add more fish sauce for saltiness or sugar for sweetness).