Chicken Pad Thai with Rice Noodles

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Chicken Pad Thai with rice noodles is a dish that transcends cultural boundaries, bringing the authentic taste of Thailand to kitchens worldwide. As a beloved staple of Thai cuisine, Pad Thai is characterized by its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, combined with the satisfying texture of chewy rice noodles and tender chicken. This dish has become a favorite in my household, known for its vibrant taste and the versatility it offers to adapt to different dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, Chicken Pad Thai is a delightful experience for the taste buds, often leaving my family asking for seconds. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity yet complex flavors, making it a go-to meal that pleases both adults and children alike. Let’s explore how to bring this delicious dish to life in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

The success of Chicken Pad Thai lies in the freshness and quality of its ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to prepare this delectable dish:

Rice Noodles: 8 ounces of flat rice noodles are essential for the authentic texture.
Chicken Breast: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced, provides the protein.
Vegetables: 1 cup of bean sprouts and 1 cup of thinly sliced bell peppers add crunch and color.
Eggs: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, for added richness and texture.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for a depth of flavor.
Tamarind Paste: 2 tablespoons, gives the dish its signature tang.
Fish Sauce: 3 tablespoons, for that essential umami kick.
Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons, adds a salty depth.
Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons, balances the flavors with sweetness.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed from one lime, to brighten up the dish.
Peanuts: 1/4 cup, crushed, for garnish and crunch.
Green Onions: 2 stalks, thinly sliced, for a pop of color and flavor.
Cooking Oil: 2 tablespoons, for frying.
Cilantro: A handful, chopped, to garnish.
Red Chili Flakes: Optional, for a spicy kick.

Instructions

Creating Chicken Pad Thai at home is a rewarding process that brings the flavors of Thailand to your table. Follow these steps:

Prepare the Noodles: Begin by soaking the rice noodles in hot water for about 10-15 minutes or until they are soft but still slightly firm to the touch. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice until well combined. Adjust the flavors to your preference, balancing the sweet, salty, and sour elements.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in the bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan.
Add the Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan. Allow them to set slightly, then scramble and mix with the vegetables.
Combine All Ingredients: Return the chicken to the pan, along with the drained noodles and sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles are well-coated and heated through.
Finish the Dish: Stir in the bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for an additional minute. Remove from heat and garnish with crushed peanuts, cilantro, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if desired.

Nutrition Facts

This Chicken Pad Thai recipe serves four generous portions. Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, making it a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The dish offers a balanced intake of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.

Preparation Time

One of the many reasons Chicken Pad Thai is a favorite is its quick preparation time. From start to finish, this dish can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The most time-consuming step is soaking the rice noodles, but this can be done while preparing other ingredients, streamlining the cooking process.

How to Serve

Serving Chicken Pad Thai is all about presentation and customization. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Traditional Style: Serve the Pad Thai on a large platter, garnished with extra lime wedges and additional crushed peanuts for a traditional Thai dining experience.
Family Style: Place the dish in a large bowl in the center of the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves and encourage communal eating.
Individual Plates: Portion the Pad Thai onto individual plates, ensuring each serving is topped with a generous amount of garnishes.
With Sides: Offer side dishes like a fresh Thai salad or spring rolls to complement the flavors and provide a more complete meal.
Spice It Up: Provide a selection of condiments, such as extra chili flakes, fish sauce, and sugar, allowing guests to adjust the flavor to their liking.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Chicken Pad Thai is a hit:

Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking, as the process moves quickly once you begin.
Noodle Texture: Be cautious not to over-soak or overcook the noodles to maintain their chewy texture, which is essential for an authentic Pad Thai.
Customize Protein: Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or a combination of proteins to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
Sauce Adjustment: Taste the sauce before adding it to the pan, and adjust the balance of flavors by adding more sugar for sweetness or lime juice for acidity as needed.
Fresh Garnishes: Ensure garnishes like cilantro and lime are fresh, as they add a burst of flavor and aroma that enhances the overall dish.

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Pad Thai, answered for your convenience:

Can I make Chicken Pad Thai ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the components of the dish ahead of time, but it’s best to combine and cook them just before serving to maintain the noodles’ texture.
What can I use instead of tamarind paste? If you can’t find tamarind paste, a combination of lime juice and brown sugar can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will slightly differ.
Is Chicken Pad Thai gluten-free? Traditional Pad Thai can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce, as most rice noodles are naturally gluten-free.
How can I make Pad Thai vegetarian? To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and fish sauce, and use tofu and a vegetarian fish sauce or soy sauce alternative.
What is the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help loosen the noodles.

Discover the Kitchen Tool Everyone Is Raving About!