If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug from Thailand, look no further than this Chicken Pad Thai Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of chewy rice noodles, tender chicken, and a tangy-sweet sauce that brings every bite to life. With fresh bean sprouts, crunchy peanuts, and a splash of lime, this dish bursts with textures and colors that make it not only delicious but a feast for the eyes. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Chicken Pad Thai Recipe delivers a satisfying, authentic taste of Thai cuisine right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple but essential, these ingredients come together to create the layers of flavor and texture that define this dish. Each plays a key role, whether it’s the silky rice noodles soaking up the sauce or the fragrant garlic adding depth to the savory chicken.
- 8 ounces rice noodles: The chewy backbone of the dish, soaking up all the delicious flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Provides a neutral base for frying without overpowering the dish.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced): Tender protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant boost that’s essential for authentic Thai flavor.
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten): Creates a soft, fluffy texture that binds the dish together.
- 1 cup bean sprouts: Brings a fresh, crisp contrast with a subtle sweetness.
- 3 green onions (sliced): Adds a mild onion tang and pops of green color.
- 1/4 cup crushed roasted peanuts: Delivers a satisfying crunch and nutty richness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Adds herbaceous brightness that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 lime (cut into wedges): Essential for squeezing just before eating, brightening every bite.
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce: The umami powerhouse that gives authentic savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds saltiness and color to the sauce blend.
- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste: Provides tang and subtle fruitiness, key to that classic Pad Thai flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the salty and sour notes with sweet warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle spicy kick, adjustable to your taste.
How to Make Chicken Pad Thai Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles
Start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are tender but still have a bit of bite. Drain them well to avoid sogginess and set them aside. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked noodles absorb the sauce beautifully without falling apart.
Step 2: Make the Sauce Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, soy sauce, tamarind paste, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce is the heart of your Chicken Pad Thai Recipe, balancing salty, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors harmoniously.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken and cook it until golden and cooked through, usually about four to five minutes. Removing the chicken once cooked prevents overcooking and keeps it juicy and tender.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Scramble the Eggs
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan, then sauté the minced garlic for just 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Push the garlic to the side and pour in the beaten eggs, scrambling them gently until they are softly set. This creates little pockets of fluffy egg that enrich the dish.
Step 5: Combine Everything with the Noodles
Add the cooked noodles, chicken, and sauce mixture back into the pan. Toss everything together so the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce, cooking for another two to three minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Ingredients
Stir in the crisp bean sprouts and sliced green onions, then remove the pan from heat. These fresh ingredients add an irresistible crunch and bright notes just before serving, ensuring your Chicken Pad Thai Recipe is bursting with texture.
How to Serve Chicken Pad Thai Recipe
Garnishes
The final toppings make all the difference in bringing your dish to life. Sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts for a nutty crunch, scatter chopped fresh cilantro for vivid color and herbaceous scent, and don’t forget the lime wedges to squeeze over each serving for that perfect citrusy zing.
Side Dishes
Though Chicken Pad Thai stands wonderfully on its own, pairing it with light sides like cucumber salad or a simple green papaya salad adds refreshing contrast. These sides balance the flavors and provide even more fresh textures to enjoy alongside the noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Chicken Pad Thai directly in colorful bowls to showcase its vibrant colors, or use banana leaves for an authentic Thai-inspired presentation. Adding edible flowers or a garnish of fried shallots can also elevate your plating and impress your guests at your next dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Pad Thai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because of the fresh ingredients, it’s best to keep garnishes separate and add them just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
While freezing Chicken Pad Thai is possible, it’s not ideal since the noodles can become mushy upon thawing. If you must freeze, keep it in a well-sealed container and consume it within one month, reheating gently to avoid overcooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles as needed. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the noodles can dry out or clump together. Fresh garnishes should be added after reheating for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I make this Chicken Pad Thai Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken for firm tofu and use a vegetarian fish sauce substitute or soy sauce for the sauce. The flavors will still be vibrant and satisfying.
What if I can’t find tamarind paste?
Tamarind paste is key for that authentic tang, but if you can’t find it, a mix of lime juice and a little brown sugar can work in a pinch. The flavor won’t be exactly the same but will still be delicious.
Are rice noodles gluten-free?
Yes, rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, making this Chicken Pad Thai Recipe an excellent option for those avoiding gluten.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe includes red pepper flakes which are optional and adjustable to your taste. You can add more for heat or skip them altogether for a milder version.
Can I prepare Chicken Pad Thai in advance?
You can prepare the sauce and chop ingredients ahead of time, but for the freshest taste and textures, it’s best to cook the dish just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Pad Thai Recipe is a wonderful way to bring the vibrant, comforting flavors of Thai street food right into your home kitchen. It’s approachable, quick to make, and packed with fresh ingredients that everyone loves. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the delightful blend of textures and tastes that will surely become a favorite in your meal rotation.
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Chicken Pad Thai Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
A delicious and authentic Chicken Pad Thai recipe featuring tender chicken breast, rice noodles, and a tangy tamarind-based sauce, tossed with fresh bean sprouts, green onions, and garnished with crushed peanuts and cilantro. Perfect for a quick and flavorful Thai-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Proteins and Vegetables
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 3 green onions (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Noodles
- 8 ounces rice noodles
Sauces and Condiments
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Others
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1/4 cup crushed roasted peanuts
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime (cut into wedges)
Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, typically soaking or boiling until tender. Then drain the noodles well and set them aside to prevent sticking.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, soy sauce, tamarind paste, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to ensure the sugar dissolves and the flavors meld.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and thoroughly cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and scramble eggs: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Push the garlic to the side, then pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them gently until just set but still soft.
- Combine noodles, chicken, and sauce: Add the drained noodles, cooked chicken, and prepared sauce mixture to the pan. Toss everything together to evenly coat the noodles and chicken with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
- Add fresh ingredients: Stir in the bean sprouts and sliced green onions, mixing just enough to incorporate them while keeping their crunch. Remove the pan from heat to avoid overcooking the fresh vegetables.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the Pad Thai hot, and top with crushed roasted peanuts, chopped fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the dish as desired.
Notes
- You can substitute tofu for chicken to make a vegetarian version.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
- Tamarind paste is essential for authentic Pad Thai flavor, but if unavailable, fresh lime juice can be used as a substitute.
