30-Minute Instant Pot Green Curry

Prep: 10 minCook: 15 min4 servingsmediumThai
Instant Pot Green Curry with Chicken and Vegetables

A fragrant Thai-inspired green curry that transforms chicken breast and fresh vegetables into a creamy, aromatic dish in under 30 minutes. The Instant Pot intensifies the curry paste flavors while keeping the chicken tender and vegetables crisp. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you crave restaurant-quality Thai food at home. This version balances the heat of green curry paste with creamy coconut milk and a touch of brown sugar, creating a sauce that coats rice beautifully.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
    firm tofu1:1vegetarianveganadds soy

    cube and press first

    Full guide →
  • 1 can coconut milk, 14 oz
    heavy cream1:1adds dairy

    changes flavor profile

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp green curry paste
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup green beans
    snap peas1:1

    similar texture and color

    Full guide →
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
    soy sauce1:1vegetarianveganfish-freeadds glutenadds soy

    reduces umami slightly

    Full guide →
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook green curry paste

  2. 2

    Add chicken and cook until browned

  3. 3

    Pour in coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, and brown sugar, stir to combine

  4. 4

    Close lid and cook on high pressure, then quick release

  5. 5

    Add vegetables and sauté until tender

  6. 6

    Serve hot garnished with fresh basil leaves

Tips

Tip 1

Toast the curry paste in oil for deeper flavor before adding other ingredients.

Tip 2

Cut vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly during the final sauté step.

Tip 3

Let pressure release naturally for 2-3 minutes before quick release for more tender chicken.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate up to 3 days in airtight container

Make Ahead

Make curry base 1 day ahead, add vegetables when reheating

Serve With

Over jasmine rice with lime wedges and extra basil

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip browning the curry paste to avoid weak flavor

Watch

Add vegetables after pressure cooking to prevent overcooking

Watch

Use quick release to prevent overcooking the chicken

Substitutions

Vegan Options

chicken breast
firm tofu1:1vegetarianveganadds soy

cube and press first

Full guide →
fish sauce
soy sauce1:1vegetarianveganfish-freeadds glutenadds soy

reduces umami slightly

Full guide →

General Alternatives

green beans
snap peas1:1

similar texture and color

Full guide →
coconut milk
heavy cream1:1adds dairy

changes flavor profile

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but add them frozen during the final sauté step and cook 1-2 minutes longer until heated through and tender.

What if I don't have fish sauce?

Substitute with soy sauce or salt, but the umami depth will be reduced. Start with less and taste as you go.

How long does this keep in the fridge?

Store covered for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together.