Introduction

Pad Thai is a beloved Thai dish that combines stir-fried rice noodles with an array of fresh ingredients, including vegetables, proteins, and a zesty sauce. This Chicken Pad Thai recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish, featuring tender chicken and flavorful seasonings that are sure to please the palate. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Rice Noodles – 200g
Chicken Breast – 300g, sliced
Eggs – 2, beaten
Bean Sprouts – 100g
Green Onions – 3, chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Peanuts – 50g, crushed
Lime – 1, cut into wedges
Fish Sauce – 3 tablespoons
Soy Sauce – 2 tablespoons
Brown Sugar – 1 tablespoon
Vegetable Oil – for cooking
Chili Flakes – to taste

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-3 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Noodles

Soak the rice noodles in hot water for about 30 minutes or until soft, then drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chili powder to create the sauce. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Add minced garlic and sliced shallots to the pan with the chicken. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Noodles

Increase the heat, and add the soaked noodles to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated.

Add Eggs

Push the noodles to one side of the pan and crack the eggs into the empty space. Scramble them until just set, then mix into the noodles.

Incorporate Vegetables

Add bean sprouts and chopped green onions to the pan. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Final Touches

Remove from heat and garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Rice Noodles

Make sure to choose the right thickness of rice noodles for the best texture.

Tamarind Paste

If you can’t find tamarind paste, a mixture of lime juice and vinegar can be used as a substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cook techniques

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a quick cooking technique that involves cooking food at high heat in a small amount of oil. This method retains the nutrients and gives a nice texture to the ingredients, making it perfect for dishes like Pad Thai.

Soaking Rice Noodles

Soaking rice noodles in warm water allows them to soften and become pliable without cooking them completely. This ensures that they achieve the perfect texture when stir-fried.

Whisking Sauce Mixtures

Whisking together sauce ingredients helps to combine them evenly, ensuring that every bite of the dish has balanced flavors. It’s essential for achieving the signature taste of Pad Thai.

Using Fresh Lime

Fresh lime juice provides a zesty brightness that complements the savory flavors in Pad Thai. Squeezing it right before serving enhances the dish’s overall freshness.

Properly Cooking Chicken

Cooking chicken until it is fully cooked and slightly caramelized adds depth and richness to the dish. Ensuring it is cooked correctly prevents dryness and enhances flavor.

Garnishing with Peanuts

Garnishing with chopped peanuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall texture and taste experience.

Controlling Heat

Controlling the heat throughout cooking is crucial. High heat is essential for stir-frying, while adjusting it as needed ensures ingredients cook evenly without burning.

FAQ

What type of noodles are used in Pad Thai?

Pad Thai is typically made with flat rice noodles, which can be found in most Asian grocery stores.

Can I make Pad Thai vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting chicken and using tofu or additional vegetables instead.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water to rehydrate the noodles.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili, or by omitting it completely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Is Pad Thai gluten-free?

Yes, Pad Thai can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that there are no other gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

The Chicken Pad Thai is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures, making it a favorite among many. Its combination of protein, vegetables, and delicious sauce creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on various occasions. With the right ingredients and a little practice, anyone can whip up this classic Thai dish in their own kitchen.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Pad Thai

For a meatless option, substitute chicken with tofu or a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. The same Pad Thai sauce will bring out the flavors beautifully.

Pad Thai with Shrimp

For seafood lovers, adding shrimp is a fantastic twist. Just toss in cooked shrimp during the final stages of cooking for a quick and delicious seafood version.

Spicy Chicken Pad Thai

If you enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate some chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies into the dish to elevate the flavors and add a spicy kick.

Pad Thai Salad

Transform your Chicken Pad Thai into a refreshing salad by incorporating fresh greens, cucumbers, and bean sprouts. Serve with the Pad Thai sauce as a dressing.

Pad Thai Spring Rolls

Use the flavors of Pad Thai to create fresh spring rolls. Fill rice paper with chicken, vermicelli noodles, and vegetables, and serve with a side of peanut sauce.

Chicken Pad Thai Bowl

Create a meal bowl by layering rice, grilled chicken, toppings of your choice, and drizzle with Pad Thai sauce for a hearty and comforting meal option.