Instant Pot Thai Yellow Chicken Curry with Vegetables

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dish that delivers the comforting goodness of Thai cuisine right to your table, then you’re in for a treat with this Instant Pot Thai Yellow Chicken Curry with Vegetables. This recipe brings together the tender juiciness of chicken breasts, a medley of colorful vegetables, and the rich, aromatic notes of Thai yellow curry paste and coconut milk. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite that satisfies everyone’s cravings!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Instant Pot Thai Yellow Chicken Curry stands out for its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of tender chicken and hearty vegetables cooked in a creamy coconut sauce is not only delicious but also nutritious. The Instant Pot ensures that the chicken remains juicy while infusing every ingredient with the curry’s aromatic spices. Plus, this recipe is adaptable; you can swap in different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences, making it an incredibly versatile dish.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons Thai yellow curry paste
• 13.5 ounces coconut milk
• 1 cup sliced white onions
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1 1/2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup chicken stock (optional)
• Rice for serving

Equipment at a Glance

• Instant Pot – The star of the show for quick cooking.
• Cutting board and knife – For prepping your ingredients.
• Measuring spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon – For stirring the curry.
• Serving bowls – For enjoying your delicious curry.

Step-by-Step: Instant Pot Thai Yellow Chicken Curry with Vegetables

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Dice the carrots and potatoes, and slice the onions. This ensures everything cooks evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken before it goes into the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to the sauté function. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat up for a minute. Once hot, add the sliced onions and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Curry Paste

Add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Stir in the Thai yellow curry paste, ensuring that the chicken is well coated. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned.

Step 5: Pour in Coconut Milk

Next, pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. This will create a creamy base for your curry.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

Add the diced carrots and potatoes to the pot. If you prefer a thinner curry, you can add chicken stock at this stage. Stir everything together for an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 7: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while cooking the chicken and vegetables to perfection.

Step 8: Release the Pressure

Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully flipping the valve to venting. Be cautious of the steam. Once the pressure is released, open the lid and stir the curry.

Step 9: Serve

Serve the hot Thai yellow chicken curry over a bed of fluffy rice. This not only adds a delightful texture but also absorbs the delicious sauce.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• For warmer weather, consider adding fresh lime juice and cilantro just before serving for a refreshing twist.
• In cooler months, you can include additional root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips for a heartier dish.
• Top with roasted peanuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Serve with naan or whole-grain bread to soak up every last drop of the curry sauce.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Don’t have Thai yellow curry paste? Feel free to substitute with red curry paste for a different flavor profile.
• If you prefer a spicier curry, add a sliced chili or a teaspoon of chili paste when sautéing.
• For a vegan version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
• This recipe freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Instant Pot Thai Yellow Chicken Curry with Vegetables is perfect for meal prep. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and serve over fresh rice. This dish also freezes beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

Instant Pot Thai Yellow Chicken Curry with Vegetables FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time to 10-12 minutes on high pressure, and ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use unsweetened almond milk or low-fat coconut milk. However, this may alter the creaminess of the curry.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this dish spicy?

This dish has a mild to moderate spice level, thanks to the yellow curry paste. If you prefer it milder, use less curry paste, or opt for a milder brand.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry
• Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
• Creamy Vegetable Soup
• Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Thai Yellow Chicken Curry with Vegetables is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the warmth of Thai cooking right into your home. With its blend of spices and creamy coconut base, it promises to be a hit at your dining table. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep session. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to dive into a bowl of comforting, flavorful curry that everyone will love!