Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken Recipe

Experience the burst of Thai flavors in your home with this recipe. A summer stew that combines the freshness of vegetables, richness of coconut milk, and the exotic flavors of Thai green curry paste. It is complemented by the succulent pieces of grilled chicken, making it a perfect balance of wholesome and delightful.

Photos of Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken Recipe

Some ingredients like fava beans, Asian fish sauce, Thai green curry paste, and light coconut milk may not be found in your everyday pantry. These are crucial to bring out the authentic Thai flavors in your stew. You can find them in the international or Asian aisle of your supermarket or a local Asian grocery store. Fresh fava beans, yellow wax beans, and basil leaves are also important, ensure they are available when you plan to make this stew.

Essential Ingredients for Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken

Chicken cutlets: The primary source of protein in this recipe, grilled to perfection.

Canola oil: Used for grilling the chicken and sauteing the onions and beans.

Lime juice: Adds a zesty freshness to the chicken.

Fava beans: Adds a unique nutty flavor and delightful texture to the stew.

Light Coconut milk: The base for our Thai stew, it gives a rich, creamy texture.

Thai green curry paste: The backbone of Thai flavor in this stew.

Low sodium chicken broth: Adds an additional layer of flavor and keeps the stew light.

Asian fish sauce: It's a potent flavor enhancer with a unique umami taste.

Sugar: Balances the salty and spicy flavors in the stew.

Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves add an aromatic Thai essence.

Cilantro leaves: Adds a refreshing earthy flavor.

Onion: Gives a sweet taste when sauteed, adding depth to the stew.

Green and yellow wax beans: They add a crisp, vibrant crunch to the stew.

Corn: Adds a natural sweetness and contrasts the spicy and savory flavors in the stew.

Jasmine rice: The perfect accompaniment to serve with the stew, it soaks up all the delicious flavors.

One reader, Deidre Trammell says:

This Thai summer bean stew with chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are vibrant and the combination of coconut milk and green curry paste is simply divine. The tender chicken and fresh vegetables make it a wholesome and satisfying meal. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a taste of summer in every bite!

Deidre Trammell

Cooking Techniques for Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken

How to grill the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then rub with oil and lime juice. Grill over high heat until browned and cooked through, about 2 1/2 minutes per side.

How to prepare the fava beans: In a medium saucepan of boiling water, cook the fava beans just until bright green, about 2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Pop the beans out of their skins with your fingers.

How to make the coconut-curry sauce: In a saucepan, whisk half of the coconut milk with the green curry paste. Whisk in the remaining coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. Transfer the sauce to a blender, add basil and cilantro, then puree.

How to cook the beans and corn: In a large skillet, heat oil, then add the onion and cook until lightly browned. Add the green beans, yellow wax beans, and corn, and cook over high heat for 2 minutes, tossing frequently. Add the remaining chicken broth, cover the skillet, and simmer the beans until tender, about 3 minutes.

How to assemble the dish: Slice the grilled chicken cutlets crosswise into 1/2-inch strips. Ladle the stew into shallow bowls, top with the chicken strips, and garnish with basil and cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges and jasmine rice.

How to make ahead: The bean stew can stand at room temperature for up to 2 hours; rewarm before serving.

How To Make Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken

Creamy coconut-curry sauce, tender fava beans, and juicy chicken makes up this hearty Thai bean stew, that’s easily whipped up in just 30 minutes!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbchicken cutlets
salt and freshly ground pepper
2tbspcanola oil
1tbsplime juice,fresh
1lbfresh fava beans
1cuplight coconut milk
2tspthai green curry paste
1cuplow sodium chicken broth
2tbspAsian fish sauce
1tbspsugar
10basil leaves
¼cupcilantro leaves
1small onion
1lbgreen beans and yellow wax beans,mixed
2corn ears
jasmine rice,steamed

Instructions

Light a grill. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and rub with 1 tablespoon of the oil and the lime juice.
Grill the chicken over high heat for about 2½ minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a carving board.
In a medium saucepan of boiling water, cook the fava beans for about 2 minutes, just until bright green, then drain and rinse under cold water
Working over a bowl, pop the beans out of their skins with fingers.
In the same saucepan, whisk half of the coconut milk with the green curry paste. Whisk in the remaining coconut milk, ½ cup of the chicken broth, the fish sauce and the sugar and bring to a boil.
Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes.
Transfer the sauce to a blender. Add the 10 basil leaves and the cilantro, then puree.
In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the onion and cook over moderately high heat until lightly browned
Add the green beans and yellow wax beans and the corn and cook over high heat for 2 minutes, tossing frequently. Add the remaining ½ cup of broth
Cover the skillet and simmer the beans for about 3 minutes until tender. Stir in the coconut-curry sauce and the fava beans and simmer until just heated through. Season the stew with salt and pepper.
Slice the chicken cutlets crosswise into ½-inch strips.
Ladle the stew into shallow bowls. Top with the chicken strips and garnish with basil and cilantro leaves.
Serve with lime wedges and jasmine rice, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Make Ahead: The bean stew can stand at room temperature for up to 2 hours; rewarm before serving

Nutrition

Calories: 557.21kcal
Fat: 23.97g
Saturated Fat: 7.09g
Trans Fat: 0.15g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.37g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.17g
Carbohydrates: 54.48g
Fiber: 17.43g
Sugar: 22.75g
Protein: 40.70g
Cholesterol: 72.82mg
Sodium: 1555.01mg
Calcium: 164.84mg
Potassium: 1394.32mg
Iron: 5.82mg
Vitamin A: 106.30µg
Vitamin C: 43.34mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken

When preparing your fava beans, it's important to ensure they are properly shelled and skinned. The skin can be tough and detract from the overall texture of the dish. To easily remove the skin, blanch the beans in boiling water for a few minutes, then immediately rinse under cold water. This process will cause the skin to loosen, making it easier to pop the beans out. This technique will ensure your beans are tender and ready to absorb all the flavors of the stew.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Thai Summer Bean Stew

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, marinate meat, and prepare sauces in advance to save time during the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup by using only one pot or pan for cooking.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of the stew and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals in the future.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like a food processor or mandoline to speed up the prep work for the recipe.

Organized workspace: Keep ingredients and tools organized to streamline the cooking process and minimize time spent searching for items.

Substitute Ingredients For Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken Recipe

chicken cutlets - Substitute with tofu cutlets: Tofu cutlets can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the stew, making it a suitable vegetarian alternative.
fava beans - Substitute with edamame: Edamame can be used as a substitute for fava beans, offering a similar texture and a slightly nutty flavor.
light coconut milk - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for light coconut milk to add richness and creaminess to the stew.
Thai green curry paste - Substitute with red curry paste: Red curry paste can be used as a substitute for green curry paste, providing a different flavor profile with a slightly spicier kick.
Asian fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for fish sauce to add a savory, umami flavor to the stew.
jasmine rice - Substitute with basmati rice: Basmati rice can be used as a substitute for jasmine rice, offering a fragrant and aromatic accompaniment to the stew.

Presentation Tips for Thai Summer Bean Stew

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the stew and chicken in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Utilize the colorful array of vegetables and herbs to create a visually stunning and appetizing presentation.
Utilize negative space: Allow the white space on the plate to accentuate the vibrant colors and textures of the dish, creating a visually striking presentation.
Garnish with precision: Add a final touch of finesse by garnishing with fresh basil and cilantro leaves, ensuring each herb is meticulously placed to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Consider plate geometry: Select a plate that complements the vibrant colors of the dish and enhances the overall visual appeal.
Create a focal point: Strategically position the sliced chicken as the focal point of the dish, drawing attention to its succulent texture and grilled appearance.
Balance the elements: Ensure a harmonious balance of ingredients and colors, creating an aesthetically pleasing composition that reflects the flavors and textures of the dish.
Emphasize the freshness: Highlight the freshness of the ingredients by presenting them in a way that conveys their natural beauty and appeal.
Use complementary serving vessels: Consider serving the jasmine rice in a separate vessel, adding an element of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Enhance with citrus: Introduce a pop of color and flavor by incorporating lime wedges as a vibrant and refreshing accent to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken

Grill: A cooking appliance used to apply dry heat to the surface of food, typically from above or below.
Carving board: A sturdy board used for carving and slicing cooked meats and other foods.
Saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking sauces, soups, and other liquids.
Blender: A kitchen appliance used to mix, purée, or emulsify food and other substances.
Skillet: A frying pan with a long handle and a relatively low, flaring side that is used for sautéing, frying, and searing.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Thai Summer Bean Stew

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Thai summer bean stew with chicken:

Refrigerate leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time.
To freeze, let the stew cool completely to room temperature. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin the consistency.
The chicken, beans, and corn may soften slightly after freezing and thawing, but the stew will still taste delicious.
For best quality, freeze the stew without the jasmine rice. Prepare fresh rice when reheating the thawed stew for the best texture.
If you plan to freeze the stew, consider undercooking the vegetables slightly so they don't become too soft when reheated.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference. Consume within the recommended time frame for optimal flavor and quality.

How To Reheat Leftover Thai Summer Bean Stew

Reheat the thai summer bean stew with chicken in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer and is heated through. This method ensures that the flavors meld together and the vegetables retain their texture.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, transfer the leftover stew to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the stew is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this may cause the chicken and vegetables to become rubbery.
For a more flavorful twist, reheat the stew in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of coconut milk or chicken broth to help revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until the stew is heated through and the sauce is slightly thickened.
If you have leftover jasmine rice, reheat it separately by placing it in a microwave-safe bowl with a damp paper towel on top. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and fluffy. Serve the reheated thai summer bean stew over the warm jasmine rice for a satisfying meal.
To add a fresh burst of flavor to your reheated stew, garnish it with some freshly chopped cilantro, basil leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. This will help brighten up the flavors and make the dish taste as if it were freshly prepared.

Interesting Trivia About Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken

The Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the freshness of fava beans, green beans, and corn with the richness of coconut milk and Thai green curry paste. This dish offers a perfect balance of savory and spicy notes, making it a delightful addition to any summer meal. The use of Thai green curry paste adds an authentic Thai flavor to the stew, while the combination of chicken and coconut milk creates a creamy and satisfying texture. This recipe showcases the versatility of Thai cuisine and offers a unique twist on traditional stew dishes.

Budget-Friendly: Is Thai Summer Bean Stew Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this Thai summer bean stew with chicken recipe largely depends on the availability and pricing of the ingredients. Chicken cutlets and coconut milk can be affordable, while fava beans and Thai green curry paste may be pricier. The total cost for a household of 4 people could range from $20 to $30, making it a reasonably cost-effective option for a flavorful and nutritious meal. As a culinary chef, I rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of flavors and use of seasonal ingredients.

Is Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken Healthy?

The Thai summer bean stew with chicken recipe contains a mix of healthy and less healthy ingredients. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-dense vegetables like fava beans, green beans, yellow wax beans, and corn. Chicken provides lean protein, and the use of light coconut milk reduces the dish's saturated fat content compared to regular coconut milk. The recipe also incorporates herbs and spices like basil, cilantro, and Thai green curry paste, which offer potential health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it healthier:

The recipe calls for canola oil, which is a refined oil. Replacing it with a healthier option like olive oil or coconut oil could be beneficial
The use of sugar and fish sauce adds extra calories and sodium to the dish. Reducing or omitting these ingredients could help make the stew more nutritious
While light coconut milk is used, it still contains saturated fat. Using an even lighter version or replacing some of the coconut milk with low-sodium chicken broth could further reduce the saturated fat content

To enhance the recipe's healthiness, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the variety and amount of vegetables in the stew, such as adding bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Use a leaner cut of chicken, such as skinless chicken breast, to reduce the overall fat content
Replace the jasmine rice with a whole grain alternative like brown rice or quinoa to increase the fiber and nutrient density of the meal
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, such as ginger or lemongrass, to add flavor without relying on salt or sugar
Serve the stew with a side salad or steamed vegetables to further increase the meal's nutrient content and promote a balanced diet

Editor's Opinion on This Thai Summer Bean Stew Recipe

This Thai summer bean stew with chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tender grilled chicken, vibrant fava beans, and crisp green and yellow wax beans creates a harmonious balance. The aromatic coconut-curry sauce, infused with Thai green curry paste, adds a depth of flavor that complements the dish beautifully. The use of fresh herbs like basil and cilantro enhances the overall freshness of the stew. The wine recommendation provides a thoughtful touch, suggesting a gewurztraminer to complement the dish's flavors. Overall, this recipe offers a tantalizing blend of Thai-inspired ingredients that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Infuse the rice with a hint of coconut milk and lime for a tropical twist

Grilled Pineapple Salad: Create a refreshing salad with grilled pineapple, mixed greens, and a zesty lime vinaigrette

Coconut-Curry Cornbread: Bake a savory cornbread infused with coconut milk and Thai green curry paste for a unique flavor

Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in a sweet and creamy dessert of sticky rice topped with fresh mango slices and a drizzle of coconut milk

Similar Recipes to Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a quick and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor. The tender beef is cooked with a mix of colorful vegetables and a spicy sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Mango Chicken Salad: This refreshing mango chicken salad is a perfect combination of sweet and savory. The juicy mangoes complement the tender chicken, and the addition of fresh herbs and a tangy dressing makes it a delightful summer dish.

Coconut Shrimp Curry: This coconut shrimp curry is a creamy and aromatic dish that is full of flavor. The succulent shrimp are cooked in a rich coconut curry sauce with a blend of spices, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with these crispy coconut shrimp. The crunchy coating and sweet coconut flavor make for a delightful appetizer that will leave everyone craving for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a light and refreshing dessert option. Perfect for a summer treat!

Why trust this Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of Thai green curry paste and coconut milk, creating a rich and aromatic base. The use of fresh fava beans and green beans ensures a burst of freshness and vibrant colors. The addition of grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein element. The blend of basil and cilantro infuses a harmonious balance of flavors. The step-by-step instructions and the recommended wine pairing demonstrate a thoughtful and comprehensive approach, instilling confidence in the recipe's reliability and delicious outcome.

Want to share your experience making this Thai Summer Bean Stew with Chicken or discuss the recipe further? Join the conversation in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen fava beans instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen fava beans as a substitute for fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can use other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even pork as a delicious alternative to chicken in this recipe.

Can I make this stew ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make the bean stew ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just store it in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stovetop.

What can I serve as a vegetarian alternative to chicken in this recipe?

For a vegetarian alternative, you can use extra firm tofu or tempeh as a substitute for the chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use a different type of rice instead of jasmine rice?

Absolutely! You can use other types of rice such as basmati, long-grain white rice, or brown rice as a substitute for jasmine rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio according to the type of rice used.