This Thai-inspired chicken thigh bake is packed with bold flavors from coconut milk, red curry paste, and lime juice. It’s an easy, oven-baked dish that delivers a delicious balance of spice, sweetness, and tang. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the coconut milk mixture over them, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

The Appeal of Thai Chicken Thigh Bake

What makes this dish so popular is its simplicity and bold flavors. It requires minimal effort but delivers a restaurant-quality experience.

• Easy to Prepare – This is a one-pan recipe that requires only a few steps, making it ideal for beginners and busy home cooks.
• Rich and Creamy Texture – Thanks to the coconut milk, the chicken turns out tender and moist, with a luscious sauce that pairs perfectly with rice.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The combination of red curry paste, lime juice, and fish sauce brings out a wonderful mix of heat, tanginess, and umami.
• Great for Meal Prep – This dish stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for leftovers and packed lunches.

Origins and Inspiration

This recipe is inspired by traditional Thai curry dishes, which often use coconut milk as a base to create a creamy and flavorful sauce. Thai red curry paste, a key ingredient in this dish, is made from a blend of red chilies, garlic, lemongrass, and other aromatic spices. It provides the signature spicy and slightly sweet taste that makes Thai curries so irresistible.

While traditional Thai curries are typically cooked on the stovetop and served as a stew, this recipe adapts the flavors into a baked dish that requires less active cooking time. The result is a tender, juicy chicken dish infused with the rich flavors of Thailand.

Why Chicken Thighs?

Chicken thighs are the perfect cut of meat for this dish because they remain moist and flavorful, even after baking. Here’s why:

• Higher Fat Content – Unlike chicken breasts, thighs contain more fat, which keeps them juicy and adds a depth of flavor.
• Better Texture – The dark meat stays tender and doesn’t dry out easily.
• More Affordable – Chicken thighs are often cheaper than breasts, making this dish budget-friendly.

If you prefer a leaner option, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may need less baking time to prevent them from drying out.

How to Serve Thai Chicken Thigh Bake

This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – The creamy coconut sauce soaks into the rice, making every bite flavorful.
• Thai Sticky Rice – For a more traditional touch, serve it with sticky rice, which complements the rich sauce.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry – A side of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots adds color and crunch.
• Fresh Herbs and Garnishes – Topping the dish with fresh cilantro, Thai basil, or a squeeze of lime enhances the flavors.
• Noodles – Try serving this dish over rice noodles for a fun twist.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily modify it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Make It Spicier – If you love heat, add extra red curry paste or a pinch of chili flakes.
• Add Vegetables – Throw in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Use Different Proteins – While chicken thighs work best, you can substitute them with tofu, shrimp, or even salmon.
• Make It Dairy-Free – This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but always check your curry paste and fish sauce to ensure they don’t contain any dairy ingredients.
• Lower the Sodium – If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium fish sauce or use soy sauce as a substitute.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This dish is great for meal prep because it stores well and reheats beautifully.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it with the sauce to prevent it from drying out.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

Health Benefits of Thai Chicken Thigh Bake

Not only is this dish delicious, but it also comes with some great health benefits:

• Rich in Protein – Chicken is a great source of protein, which helps in muscle building and repair.
• Good Fats from Coconut Milk – Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support heart health and metabolism.
• Anti-Inflammatory Spices – Ingredients like red curry paste and garlic have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
• Gluten-Free – This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

The Thai Chicken Thigh Bake is a fantastic dish that brings together the bold flavors of Thai cuisine in a simple, oven-baked recipe. Thai cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, aromatic herbs, and perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. One dish that embodies these qualities beautifully is the Thai Chicken Thigh Bake. This oven-baked dish is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills or hard-to-find ingredients. By using a combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, lime juice, and fish sauce, this recipe creates a rich and creamy sauce that infuses the chicken with deep, authentic Thai flavors.

Whether you’re a busy professional looking for an easy meal or someone who loves experimenting with global flavors, this dish is a must-try. With its creamy coconut sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic spices, it’s a meal that delivers both comfort and excitement in every bite. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized to your taste preferences.