In the pursuit of health and wellness, a crucial aspect is maintaining a balanced diet that includes adequate protein intake. One delicious way to achieve this is through Green Curry Thai Chicken, a flavorful dish that is not only delicious, but also a source of high-quality protein. Accompanied by cauliflower rice, this meal offers a low-calorie alternative to traditional rice, making it ideal for those aiming to manage their weight and optimize their nutrition.
Protein is an essential macronutrient crucial for a variety of bodily functions, including muscle repair, immune support, and hormone production. Incorporating high-protein foods into our daily meals is so very important, especially as we age. For women, maintaining muscle mass becomes increasingly important to support a healthy metabolism and overall longevity.
Did you know that protein aids in preserving and building lean muscle mass, which can decline with age? This is vital for maintaining a strong and functional body. High-protein meals help you feel full and satisfied, reducing overall calorie intake and supporting weight management efforts. And, as Tracy always says, protein, when consumed with carbohydrates, can help regulate blood sugar levels, preventing energy spikes and crashes. Always try to have protein with your carbs!
This dish is easy to prep. Chop the veggies and then cook the chicken, and this is all cooked in one pan. Don’t you just love easy and healthy meals and one pan to clean? Sign me up!
Often, Thai dishes are paired with rice, however, a low-calorie alternative is cauliflower rice, which has gained popularity as a healthier substitute for traditional rice. As a low-calorie and low-carb option, it’s a fantastic choice for those looking to manage their weight, control their carbohydrate intake, or add more vegetables to their diet.
Of course there are health benefits to cauliflower rice. It is significantly lower in calories and carbohydrates compared to white or brown rice, making it suitable for those following a low-calorie or low-carb diet. Cauliflower is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, providing nutritional benefits while keeping the overall calorie count down.
Cauliflower rice easily absorbs the flavors of the dish it accompanies, making it a versatile base for various cuisines, including Thai.
Green Curry Thai Chicken
A Thai styled chicken dish with coconut milk and green curry paste.
Ingredients
- 6-7 chicken thighs or 3 chicken breasts cut in strips
- pepper and salt to taste
- 1/2 cup green onion sliced thin
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tsp fresh ginger
- 1 red pepper sliced in thin strips
- 1 stalk celery sliced fine
- 1 can coconut milk
- 3/4 cup chicken stock
- 1 shallot chopped fine
- 2 tbsp green curry paste
- 2/3 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil
- 1 cup snap peas cut in thirds
- 1 cup bean sprouts
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375F.
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In an oven proof frying pan, brown chicken on both sides over medium/high heat. Sprinkle chicken with pepper and salt. If using chicken breasts, add 1 tbsp of olive oil to the pan before browning. Once browned, remove chicken from pan.
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Add chopped onions, shallot, celery, peppers, garlic and ginger to pan. Stir frequently over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
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Add chicken stock, coconut milk, and curry paste and stir. Once combined add the chicken back to the frying pan and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes uncovered. Chicken should be 165F when checked with a thermometer.
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Sprinkle chopped basil on top and serve with Cauliflower Rice.