Thai Chicken Spaghetti with Coconut Milk and Basil: A Fusion Delight

Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, infused with the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine – creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, and aromatic red curry, topped with juicy grilled chicken and a sprinkle of crunchy peanuts. This Thai-inspired pasta dish is a culinary journey that transforms your everyday spaghetti into an exotic, mouthwatering experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Bangkok.

Ingredients

  • Spaghetti: 160g (6 oz)
  • Chicken breast: 200g (7 oz), cubed
  • Coconut milk: 100ml (1/2 cup)
  • Thai red curry paste: 1 tablespoon
  • Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
  • Thai basil leaves: 6-8 leaves, chopped
  • Unsalted peanuts: 20g (1/4 cup), crushed
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Neutral oil or coconut oil: 1 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken

  • Cut chicken breast into medium-sized cubes
  • Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of oil
  • Grill in a hot pan for 6-7 minutes until golden brown
  • Set aside

2. Prepare the Coconut Curry Sauce

  • Sauté minced garlic in oil
  • Add red curry paste, stirring for 1 minute to release aromatics
  • Pour in coconut milk and lime juice
  • Simmer for 3 minutes on low heat

3. Cook the Spaghetti

  • Boil salted water in a large pot
  • Cook spaghetti for 9 minutes
  • Drain and immediately mix with coconut curry sauce
  • Stir in chopped basil leaves

4. Plate and Serve

  • Create a dome of spaghetti on the plate
  • Top with grilled chicken cubes
  • Generously sprinkle crushed peanuts
  • Garnish with fresh Thai basil leaves

Cooking Details

  • Preparation Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 2 people

Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 20g

Why This Recipe is Amazing

This Thai chicken spaghetti is not just a meal; it’s a healthy, balanced dish that combines:

  • Lean protein from chicken
  • Complex carbohydrates from pasta
  • Healthy fats from coconut milk
  • Antioxidant-rich herbs and spices

Pro Tips

  • Make the coconut curry sauce ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with grilled tofu

Enjoy your culinary adventure!