Thai Chicken Casserole is a tantalizing dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with the heartiness of a classic casserole. This recipe features tender pieces of chicken bathed in a creamy coconut milk sauce, spiced with red curry paste, and balanced with the freshness of lime and the sweetness of brown sugar. Layered with crisp vegetables and baked to perfection, the casserole is topped with crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor and texture. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a flavorful meal prep option, this Thai Chicken Casserole will quickly become a favorite.
Thai Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red curry paste, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Stir in the coconut milk, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together, about 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large casserole dish, spread the cooked jasmine rice evenly on the bottom.
- Layer the browned chicken pieces over the rice.
- Pour the coconut curry sauce over the chicken and rice.
- Arrange the sliced red bell pepper and snap peas on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, peanuts, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy your delicious Thai Chicken Casserole!
