Jamie Oliver’s Thai Red Chicken Curry (30-Minute Meals) is a vibrant, creamy, and mildly spicy dish packed with Thai flavors. This quick version of the classic red curry combines tender chicken, aromatic red curry paste, coconut milk, and fresh vegetables to create a rich and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice for an easy, delicious dinner.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Quick and Easy: A bold, flavorful curry ready in just 30 minutes.
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: Coconut milk and red curry paste create a luscious, velvety texture.
- Authentic Thai Flavors: Uses traditional Thai ingredients like kaffir lime, lemongrass, and fish sauce.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the chilies to make them milder or spicier.
- One-Pan Recipe: Everything cooks in a single pan for easy cleanup.

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What is Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry 30-Minute Meals?
Jamie Oliver’s Thai Red Chicken Curry (30-Minute Meals) is a quick and delicious version of the classic Thai red curry. It features chicken simmered in a rich, spiced coconut sauce with fresh vegetables, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights.
Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry 30-Minute Meals Ingredients
For the Red Curry Paste (Homemade Option):
A fresh, homemade curry paste enhances the depth of flavor.
- 2 dried red chilies (soaked in warm water)
- 1 stalk lemongrass (white part only, finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
- 2 kaffir lime leaves (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian version)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
Alternative: Use 3 tablespoons of store-bought Thai red curry paste if short on time.
For the Curry:
A combination of chicken and vegetables adds texture and flavor.
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (sliced into strips)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 100g sugar snap peas or baby corn
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 250ml chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Juice of ½ lime
For Garnish and Serving:
Fresh toppings add extra brightness to the dish.
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Sliced red chili (optional)
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry 30-Minute Meals
Step 1: Make the Red Curry Paste (If Using Homemade)
A homemade paste gives the curry a fresher, more aromatic taste.
- In a food processor, blend soaked chilies, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, kaffir lime leaves, ground coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, fish sauce, lime juice, and olive oil.
- Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Cooking the paste first releases its full depth of flavor.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the red curry paste (homemade or store-bought) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in sliced onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Searing the chicken before simmering locks in flavor.
- Add sliced chicken to the pan and stir well to coat in the curry paste.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
Step 4: Build the Curry Sauce
A creamy, rich sauce brings everything together.
- Pour in coconut milk and chicken stock, stirring well to combine.
- Add fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice for a balanced flavor.
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add Vegetables and Simmer
Vegetables add crunch and freshness to the dish.
- Stir in red bell peppers and sugar snap peas (or baby corn).
- Let the curry simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Final touches elevate the dish’s taste and presentation.
- Sprinkle with fresh coriander leaves and sliced red chili.
- Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice and lime wedges.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry
Pairing the dish with the right sides enhances the meal.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The best accompaniment for soaking up the curry sauce.
- Thai Coconut Rice: Adds a mildly sweet and creamy contrast.
- Crispy Roti or Flatbread: Great for scooping up the curry.
- Mango Salad: A fresh and tangy side to balance the richness.
- Thai Dipping Sauce: For those who love extra spice.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry
These expert tips ensure your curry turns out perfect every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and coriander provide the best flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce or add chilies based on your heat preference.
- Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the coconut milk to maintain a smooth texture.
- Let the Curry Rest Before Serving: This enhances the depth of flavor.
- Make Extra Paste: Store homemade red curry paste in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for later use.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry
This dish can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for tofu, chickpeas, or mushrooms.
- Extra Spicy: Add more red chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a Thai-inspired twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice.
- Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 4-6 hours for an extra tender and flavorful dish.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry 30-Minute Meals?
Proper storage keeps the dish fresh and flavorful for later meals.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Option: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
- Best Storage Tip: Keep the rice and curry separate for better reheating.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry 30-Minute Meals Leftovers?
Reheating properly ensures the dish maintains its flavors and texture.
- Stovetop Method: Heat over medium-low, adding a splash of coconut milk or stock if needed.
- Microwave Approach: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Avoid Boiling: High heat can cause the coconut milk to split.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
This dish provides a well-balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 550mg
FAQs
Can I make Thai Red Chicken Curry milder?
Yes, use fewer chilies and add extra coconut milk to mellow the spice.
Can I use store-bought red curry paste?
Yes, store-bought paste is a great time-saving option while still delivering rich flavor.
What’s the best way to thicken Thai Red Curry?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or add blended cashews for extra creaminess.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Thai Red Chicken Curry 30-Minute Meals is a creamy, aromatic, and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy nights. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s packed with fresh Thai flavors and delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home. Try it today!
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Jamie Oliver Thai Red Chicken Curry 30-Minute Meals
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Thai Red Chicken Curry (30-Minute Meals) is a quick and delicious version of the classic Thai red curry. It features chicken simmered in a rich, spiced coconut sauce with fresh vegetables, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Red Curry Paste (Homemade Option):
A fresh, homemade curry paste enhances the depth of flavor.
-
- 2 dried red chilies (soaked in warm water)
-
- 1 stalk lemongrass (white part only, finely chopped)
-
- 3 cloves garlic
-
- 1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
-
- 2 kaffir lime leaves (finely chopped)
-
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
-
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
-
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian version)
-
- Juice of 1 lime
-
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
Alternative: Use 3 tablespoons of store-bought Thai red curry paste if short on time.
For the Curry:
A combination of chicken and vegetables adds texture and flavor.
-
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (sliced into strips)
-
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
-
- 1 onion (thinly sliced)
-
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
-
- 100g sugar snap peas or baby corn
-
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
-
- 250ml chicken stock
-
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
-
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
-
- Juice of ½ lime
For Garnish and Serving:
Fresh toppings add extra brightness to the dish.
-
- Fresh coriander leaves
-
- Sliced red chili (optional)
-
- Steamed jasmine rice
-
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Red Curry Paste (If Using Homemade)
A homemade paste gives the curry a fresher, more aromatic taste.
-
- In a food processor, blend soaked chilies, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, kaffir lime leaves, ground coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, fish sauce, lime juice, and olive oil.
-
- Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Cooking the paste first releases its full depth of flavor.
-
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
-
- Add the red curry paste (homemade or store-bought) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
-
- Stir in sliced onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Searing the chicken before simmering locks in flavor.
-
- Add sliced chicken to the pan and stir well to coat in the curry paste.
-
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
Step 4: Build the Curry Sauce
A creamy, rich sauce brings everything together.
-
- Pour in coconut milk and chicken stock, stirring well to combine.
-
- Add fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice for a balanced flavor.
-
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add Vegetables and Simmer
Vegetables add crunch and freshness to the dish.
-
- Stir in red bell peppers and sugar snap peas (or baby corn).
-
- Let the curry simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Final touches elevate the dish’s taste and presentation.
-
- Sprinkle with fresh coriander leaves and sliced red chili.
-
- Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice and lime wedges.