18 Thai Dishes That Bring the Heat

Thai-inspired meals offer a world of bold flavors, spicy kicks, and creamy textures—all packed into dishes that are as comforting as they are exciting. This list pulls together everything from street food classics to cozy curries and light, crunchy salads. You’ll find familiar takeout favorites and a few creative twists that bring out the best in Thai flavors at home. Whether you’re cooking with chicken, shrimp, tofu, or turkey, there’s something here that brings the heat and the balance.

Thai Drunken Noodles

Wide rice noodles stir-fried with chili, garlic, and Thai basil create a fiery, fragrant dish. It’s bold, messy, and full of personality. Best served hot and fast. A Thai street food classic that brings the heat.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Thai Turkey Meatballs

These meatballs use fresh herbs, garlic, and chili to pack a ton of flavor into every bite. They’re baked or pan-fried, depending on how you want the texture. Serve them with rice or tucked into wraps. A lighter alternative that still brings the flavor.
Get the Recipe: Thai Turkey Meatballs

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Pork cooks fast on the hot griddle, picking up caramelized edges that contrast the crunch of green beans. The sauce clings to everything, rich in umami and a touch of heat. A dish built for high heat and fast flavor. Great with rice or noodles.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Noodles get tossed in a creamy, slightly spicy peanut sauce that’s both rich and refreshing. The sauce clings to every bite, boosted by lime and garlic. Add some veggies or protein if you like, but it holds up on its own. Comforting and full of texture.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Tofu Thai Wrap

Tofu gets seared or baked and wrapped in soft flatbread with fresh veggies and bold sauce. It’s quick, filling, and customizable. The sauce brings the Thai flavor, while the tofu soaks it all in. Great for lunch or dinner on the go.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Thai Wrap

Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe

Fragrant with Thai basil and spicy with chilies, this fried rice is anything but basic. The ingredients are simple but the flavor is intense and layered. It’s the kind of dish that comes together fast and hits all the right notes. A staple in Thai kitchens for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe

Thai Pumpkin Curry

Creamy coconut milk, tender chunks of pumpkin, and aromatic curry paste come together in this cozy dish. It has a mellow sweetness balanced by the savory depth of Thai spices. Great with jasmine rice or ladled over noodles. A seasonal dish that works all year.
Get the Recipe: Thai Pumpkin Curry

Thai Chicken Salad

Shredded chicken gets tossed with herbs, chilies, lime juice, and crunchy vegetables. It’s a bright, zesty dish that’s big on contrast and flavor. Light but packed with heat and freshness. Works as a main or a side.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Salad

Thai Yellow Curry

This curry leans milder than red or green versions, with turmeric adding a warm, earthy base. It’s creamy, rich, and great with potatoes or chicken. The flavor is deep without being too spicy. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry

Thai Chicken Curry

This classic brings together chicken, coconut milk, and curry paste in one creamy, aromatic pot. The chicken stays juicy while the sauce thickens and soaks into rice. Mild or spicy, it’s easy to adjust to your liking. A go-to Thai comfort dish.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry

Thai Fried Rice

Unlike the Chinese version, this has a funkier, spicier edge thanks to fish sauce and chilies. It’s got depth without being heavy. Best served hot with a fried egg on top. A versatile dish you can change up with whatever’s in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Thai Kohlrabi Noodle Salad

Shredded kohlrabi steps in for noodles in this crisp, refreshing salad. It’s light, crunchy, and drenched in a limey, garlicky dressing. Works well on hot days or as a crunchy side to heavier dishes. A smart way to use seasonal vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Thai Kohlrabi Noodle Salad

Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce

Crunchy lettuce holds spicy chicken and veggies, all topped with a rich peanut sauce. Light and fresh with a nice balance of textures. Great as an appetizer or quick meal. It’s hands-on and easy to customize.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce

Shrimp Pad Thai with Peanut Sauce

Tender shrimp, chewy noodles, and a savory-sweet peanut sauce create a twist on the classic. It’s rich, slightly tangy, and just spicy enough. Topped with crushed peanuts and lime. A takeout favorite with a little personal flair.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Pad Thai with Peanut Sauce

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Ground turkey meatballs simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce. The meatballs stay juicy and take on all the flavor of the curry. This dish is comforting, a little sweet, and has just enough heat. Serve it with rice to soak up every drop.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Thai Shrimp Curry

Juicy shrimp swim in a rich curry sauce that brings just enough heat. The coconut milk keeps it creamy while the curry paste adds complexity. Quick to make and hard to stop eating. A solid choice when you want something fast but bold.
Get the Recipe: Thai Shrimp Curry

Thai Fish Cakes

Blended fish and herbs form these crisp, pan-fried patties that are often served with a sweet chili dip. They’re chewy inside with a nice crunch outside. A great appetizer or small plate. Fast to make and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fish Cakes

Thai Chicken Satay

Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and served with a peanut dipping sauce. They’re tender, flavorful, and ideal for parties or weeknight dinners. The sauce adds a creamy, nutty contrast to the savory meat. Always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Thai Larb

A minced meat salad full of fresh herbs, lime, fish sauce, and a hint of chili. It’s tangy, spicy, and refreshingly crunchy thanks to the toasted rice powder. Served warm or room temp with lettuce or rice. A light dish that still satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Thai Larb

Thai Curry Puffs

These flaky, golden pastries are filled with a savory curry mix that’s just the right level of spiced. The crust is crisp while the filling stays soft and fragrant. Great as an appetizer or snack with a side of dipping sauce. Small but packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curry Puffs