Hello, wonderful friends and fellow parents on the go! I’m thrilled to introduce you to a Thai Chicken freezer meal that will forever change your meal prep game.

Imagine the aroma of succulent chicken pieces, marinated in a symphony of Thai flavors that’s nothing short of magical – a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and a hint of heat, all expertly combined to create a taste of Thailand right in your own kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its incredible convenience. With our make-ahead meals, you can enjoy the rich, complex flavors of this Thai Chicken dish without the usual time and effort it demands to make.

Picture this: on a busy weekday evening when you’re juggling work, school pickups, and after-school activities, you can simply reach into your freezer, pull out a container of this Thai Chicken, and during the busyness of the day, your meal is cooking for you in your crockpot.

But it’s not just about the convenience; it’s about savoring each bite with the knowledge that you’ve prepared something special for your family. It’s about creating moments around the dinner table, where the enticing aroma and flavors of Thailand transport you to a faraway place, even on the most hectic of days.

Why you’ll love this Make Ahead Thai Chicken Recipe

Healthy Ingredients
You can (and should) make it in advance
Social Sharing- Large Gathering Recommended.
Quick and Easy
Cultural Appeal
Versatility

Thai Chicken Freezer Meal Recipe

A symphony of Thai flavors featuring a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and a hint of heat, all expertly combined to create a delicious taste right in your own kitchen.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 4

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Thai

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

1 Slow Cooker
1 gallon freezer bag
1 Quart freezer bag

Ingredients

Main

2-3 lbs Chicken thighs Boneless/Skinless
1 1/2 cup Red Bell Pepper diced
1 1/2 cup onion diced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup soy sauce

Sauce: (whisk together)

1 tbsp Cumin
1 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp tapioca starch
2/3 cup Peanut butter
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/3 cup Lime juice requires

For serving:

1 bunch Green onion diced
14 oz Rice noodles or rice

Instructions

Freezer prep directions:

Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method.
Whisk sauce ingredients together and place in a small snack bag, then place snack bag into quart sized freezer bag, seal, and set aside.
Add remaining ingredients, except for serving, to the freezer bag. Place sealed quart bag into gallon freezer bag.
Seal gallon freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months.

Slow Cooker Directions

Thaw freezer bag in fridge 12-24 hours before cooking.
Add freezer bag contents into the slow cooker (set sauce in quart size bag aside)
Cook on low 4-6 hours
With 1 hour cook time remaining, mix sauce packet into the slow cooker.
Shred the chicken directly in the pot with two forks and stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
Optional: serve the Thai chicken over rice or rice noodles, complementing the dish with your choice of garnishes, such as fresh herbs or lime wedges.

Instant Pot Directions

Dump the contents of the freezer bag into the Instant Pot, add 1/2 cup water.
Set to High Pressure for 20 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release followed by a quick release.
Use the “Sauté” function to bring the mixture to a simmer, stir in the sauce packet, allowing the sauce to heat through and thicken slightly, usually about 5 minutes.
Shred the chicken directly in the pot with two forks and stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
Optional: serve the Thai chicken over rice or rice noodles, complementing the dish with your choice of garnishes, such as fresh herbs or lime wedges.

Dietary Adjustments

Make it Gluten-Free:

Use coconut aminos or tamari, not soy sauce.
If serving with rice noodles, ensure they are gluten-free.

Make it Dairy-Free:

This recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 41.3gProtein: 22.4gFat: 25.5gSaturated Fat: 5.8gCholesterol: 54mgSodium: 4847mgPotassium: 662mgFiber: 7.7gSugar: 8.6gCalcium: 73mgIron: 4mg

Keyword Chicken Recipes, freezer meals, Slow Cooker Recipes, Thai Chicken

Equipment needed to make an Authentic Thai Chicken recipe

1 Slow Cooker
1 gallon freezer bag
1 Quart freezer bag

Ingredients for your Thai Chicken Recipe

2-3 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 1/2 cup Red Bell Pepper diced
1 1/2 cup Onion diced(may use frozen diced onions)
1/2 cup Chicken broth
1/4 cup Soy Sauce Coconut aminos for Paleo friendly
Sauce: (whisk together)
1 tbsp Cumin
1 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Black pepper
1 tbsp Tapioca starch
2/3 cup Peanut butter Almond butter for Paleo
1 tbsp Soy sauce Coconut aminos for Paleo
1/3 cup Lime juice Fresh squeezed
For serving:
1 bunch Green onion diced
14 oz Box Rice noodles

How to make a Thai Chicken Recipe

Prep/freezer directions:

Label gallon freezer bag with recipe name, cooking from freezer directions and expiration date (today’s date plus three months).
Add all main ingredients to the labeled gallon freezer bag.
Add all sauce ingredients into a quart freezer bag.
Set a sealed quart bag into a gallon freezer bag and seal. (Remove as much air from the gallon bag as possible).
Store in the freezer for up to three months.

Cooking directions:

If desired, thaw overnight in the fridge or in the morning in water.( Meal may not be 100% thawed but that is ok)
Add freezer bag contents into the slow cooker (set sauce in quart size bag aside)
Cook on low 4-6 hours
When there is 1 hour cook time remaining, whisk sauce ingredients and stir into slow cooker.
Shred chicken and stir back into sauce. Add rice noodles, and serve.

What to pair with your Quick and Healthy Thai Chicken

Sides:

Coconut Rice
Thai Cucumber Salad
Spring Rolls

Desserts:

Mango Sticky Rice
Thai Coconut Ice Cream
(Kluay Tod) Thai Fried Bananas

Mocktails:

Thai Iced Tea Mocktail
Lemongrass Ginger Mocktail
Virgin Lychee Mojito

Popular Substitutions and Additions

Substitutions:

Protein Substitute (Chicken Thighs): Substitute the bone-in chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option. Ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Nut Butter Substitute (Peanut Butter): Swap peanut butter for almond butter or cashew butter for a nuttier flavor. This substitution works well for those with peanut allergies or following a paleo diet.
Citrus Substitute (Lime Juice): Replace fresh lime juice with frozen lime juice concentrate. This allows you to have the citrusy flavor without worrying about the lime juice going bad in the freezer.

Additions:

Veggies (Bell Peppers and Onions): Add a medley of frozen vegetables like snap peas, broccoli florets, or sliced carrots to enhance the nutritional value and create a more colorful and balanced meal.
Herb Freshness (Cilantro): After reheating the dish, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. It adds a burst of freshness and a lovely herbal aroma to the Thai Chicken.
Crunchy Texture (Crushed Peanuts): To provide a delightful contrast in texture, include crushed peanuts as a topping just before serving. This addition adds a satisfying crunch to your Thai Chicken.

With these substitutions and additions, you can customize your Thai Chicken freezer meal to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs while maintaining the convenience of a make-ahead dish that can be frozen for later use.

How to Reheat and Store Thai Chicken after cooking

Best way to store Thai Chicken Recipe for Dinner leftovers?

The best way to store your Thai Chicken leftovers is to follow these steps to ensure your leftovers remain safe to eat and maintain their quality. First, allow the Thai Chicken to cool down to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.

If you plan to consume the leftovers within a few days, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture loss and the absorption of odors from other foods. Clearly label the container or bag with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness.

How long will Thai Chicken last in the fridge?

In order to maintain quality and flavor, it is recommended to follow the proper cooling and storing procedures. With these procedures being followed, your leftover Thai Chicken recipe will stay fresh in the fridge for 4-5 days.

Can I freeze homemade Thai Chicken after cooking?

Yes, Absolutely. When you are preparing to freeze your leftover Thai Chicken, allow the recipe to cool completely to room temperature. After cooling has occurred, properly seal your leftovers using a resealable freezer bag. It is a good idea to divide your leftovers into smaller portions for easier reheating. When ready to seal, remove as much air as possible from your freezer bags.

If you are planning to use this recipe as a raw freezer meal, gather a gallon freezer bag, and a quart freezer bag. Add all main ingredients into the labeled gallon freezer bag. Add all sauce ingredients into a quart sized freezer bag. Set a sealed quart bag into a gallon freezer bag and seal. Remove as much air as possible from the gallon freezer bag. Store in the freezer for 3-6 months. When ready to cook, allow recipe to thaw. Add main ingredients into slow cooker whisk together thawed sauce ingredients, add over chicken in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How to reheat Easy Thai Chicken Recipe?

Reheating your Thai Chicken can help restore its flavors and make it enjoyable once again. Here are several methods you can use to reheat your leftovers of Thai Chicken. Microwave: Place your Thai Chicken in a microwave-safe container. Heat it on medium to prevent overcooking or overheating. Stir the Thai Chicken in between each interval to ensure even heating. Continue to microwave in short intervals until it reaches the desired temperature.

The next method of reheating is using the Stovetop. For larger portions, consider reheating on the stovetop. Use a non-stick skillet or pan over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of oil or broth to the pan to prevent sticking and maintaining moisture. Place the Thai Chicken in a pan and cover it with a lid. Stir occasionally to evenly distribute heat and prevent sticking. Reheat until the chicken reaches a desired temperature.

Authentic Thai Chicken Recipe FAQs

What is Thai Chicken made of?

Thai Chicken dishes typically include boneless chicken pieces cooked with a variety of ingredients such as herbs and spices, coconut milk or cream, vegetables (often bell peppers and onions), and seasonings like soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice.

The specific ingredients can vary depending on the recipe, but Thai Chicken is known for its balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors. Some recipes may also incorporate peanuts or almond butter for a creamy texture.

How do you eat Thai Chicken?

Thai Chicken is typically served with steamed jasmine rice or noodles, and it’s meant to be enjoyed by combining a spoonful of chicken and with a portion of rice or noodles. The dish often comes with a side of fresh herbs, lime wedges, and condiments like chili sauce or fish sauce.

To eat, you can mix and match flavors to suit your taste, add fresh herbs, squeeze lime for acidity, and use the condiments for extra heat or seasoning. This combination gives texture and flavor that makes your Thai Chicken a memorable dish.

What Thai Curry is the least spicy?

The Thai Curry that is generally considered the least spicy is the “Yellow Curry”. Yellow curry is milder compared to other Thai curries like red or green curry.

It gets its name and color from the use of spices, like turmeric and sometimes yellow chili peppers. Yellow curry has a subtle spiciness, making it a good choice for those who prefer a mold heat level in their Thai dishes.

What is a yellow curry called in Thailand?

Yellow curry in Thailand is called “Gaeng Karee” or “ Kaeng Kari”. It is known for its mild and slightly sweet flavor, thanks for the use of turmeric and other aromatic spices.

What substitutions can you make for a Thai Chicken Recipe?

There are many substitutions you can make to a Thai Chicken recipe to make it taste a bit different to match your personal preference.

One thing you can do is to add a different protein to your meal. Substituting chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef. Another thing you can do is to alternate the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter.

Instead of using regular soy sauce, you can replace that with coconut aminos or gluten free soy sauce. An alternative to your normal thai chicken recipe would be to add various vegetables based on your personal preference.

What are the four types of Curry found in Thai Chicken recipes?

The four main types of curry found in Thai Chicken are: Red Curry, which is known for its spiciness. Then there is green curry, which is another spicy option made with green chili paste and coconut milk.

Another curry is the Yellow Curry, which has a mild and slightly sweeter taste. The last of the curries is a Massaman Curry, which provides a rich and flavorful curry with influences from Indian and Persian cuisine.

What is the history behind a Thai Chicken recipe?

Thai chicken recipes are rooted in Thailand’s rich culinary history, influenced by various cultures and regional ingredients. Thailand’s cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors. Over the centuries, Thai cuisine has evolved through trade and cultural exchanges, incorporating elements from Southeast Asian countries.

Thai Chicken recipes likely developed as a way to utilize local ingredients like herbs, spices, coconut milk and various protein types. While specific Thai Chicken recipes may have their own unique histories, they all reflect the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of thailand.

What is the difficulty level of cooking a Thai Chicken recipe?

The difficulty level of cooking a Thai Chicken recipe can vary depending on the specific dish. Some Thai Chicken recipes are relatively simple and suitable for beginner cooks.

While others, such as complex curries with multiple ingredients and spice blends, may require more experience in the chef. Overall, many Thai chicken recipes are approachable for at home cooks, especially with the availability of pre-made curry pastes and sauces.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Thai Chicken?

Common mistakes when making Thai Chicken include overcooking the chicken, which can lead the dryness. Another mistake to avoid would be not properly balancing your flavors, between sweet, salty, sour, and spiciness.

Another common mistake that can be made is not being organized before you begin your cooking. Last but not least, overloading your dish with too many ingredients, resulting in overcrowding of flavors and not being able to taste the authenticity of the dish.

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Don’t forget to come back and let me know how your Thai Chicken turned out!

anna says:

5 months ago

I am wondering… What are x1 x2 x3 – options? Because over 1 kg of meat can’t be for one person. Could you explain? How much people can eat portions that are numbered x1.
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Hannah Stewart says:

5 months ago

That is a tool for doubling or tripling the recipe’s ingredients! The serving size for the meal is for 4-6 adults. So doubling and tripling the recipe would allow you to feed more individuals.
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20 Cheap Crockpot Freezer Dump Meals - Sweet Money Bee says:

9 months ago

[…] Recipe by My Family Dinner […]
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