The Most Popular Thai Poultry Dishes That Use Ground Meat

Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, aromatic herbs, and diverse ingredients. Among its many offerings, poultry dishes that use ground meat occupy a special place. These dishes are not only delicious but also offer a comforting and satisfying meal. Here’s a look at some of the most popular Thai poultry dishes that feature ground meat.

1. Larb Gai (Spicy Chicken Salad)

Larb Gai is a beloved Thai salad made with ground chicken. It combines lime juice, fish sauce, roasted rice powder, and fresh herbs like mint and cilantro. This dish is typically served with fresh vegetables and can be enjoyed on its own or wrapped in lettuce leaves. The balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors makes Larb Gai a must-try.

2. Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

Pad Krapow Gai is a quick and easy stir-fry dish made with ground chicken and vibrant Thai basil. The ground meat is cooked with garlic, bird's eye chilies, and soy sauce. The secret to a great Pad Krapow Gai lies in using fresh Thai basil, which adds a distinctive aroma and flavor. This dish is often served with steamed rice and a fried egg on top for an added indulgence.

3. Som Tum with Ground Chicken

While Som Tum is commonly known as a green papaya salad, it can also feature ground chicken for added protein. The unripe papaya is shredded and mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and peanuts. Incorporating ground chicken enhances the dish, making it a filling and nutritious option with the perfect balance of crunch and savoriness.

4. Thai Chicken Meatball Soup (Tom Kha Gai)

Tom Kha Gai is a fragrant coconut soup that often includes chicken, but you can also enjoy it with chicken meatballs. Ground chicken is mixed with herbs and spices, then formed into meatballs and cooked in a rich coconut broth with galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. This combination creates a comforting and aromatic soup that's perfect for any time of the year.

5. Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry (Gai Pad Khing)

This stir-fry features ground chicken sautéed with ginger and vegetables, including bell peppers and carrots. The inclusion of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili flakes gives this dish its signature kick. Gai Pad Khing is a great choice for those who enjoy a hearty meal that's packed with flavor.

6. Thai Chicken Curry (Gaeng Gai)

Gaeng Gai is a delicious coconut curry made with ground chicken and a variety of vegetables. The curry paste is combined with coconut milk, creating a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the meat. Traditionally served with jasmine rice, this dish is a warm and satisfying option for any curry lover.

7. Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

Though typically made with skewered pieces of marinated chicken, some versions utilize ground chicken mixed with spices and grilled on skewers. This delightful dish is served with a creamy peanut sauce for dipping. The combination of fragrant spices and the rich sauce contrast beautifully, making it a popular appetizer.

These dishes highlight the versatility of ground chicken in Thai cuisine, offering a range of flavors and textures that can suit any palate. Whether enjoyed in salads, soups, stir-fries, or curries, Thai poultry dishes made with ground meat are both delicious and fulfilling.