Easy Chicken Pad Thai Recipe

Pad Thai is a popular Thai dish known for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and savory flavors. It’s a dish that can be found in almost every Thai restaurant and food stall around the world. However, making this classic at home might seem like a daunting task, especially when trying to replicate the complex flavors and textures. But fear not this easy Chicken Pad Thai recipe will show you how to prepare this delicious dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

What’s in This Chicken Pad Thai Recipe?

The Chicken Pad Thai recipe uses fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor. Pad Thai is primarily a stir-fry, and the key to making it delicious lies in balancing the flavors from the Pad Thai sauce and using the right combination of proteins, noodles, and vegetables. Here’s what you’ll need:

Key Ingredients for Chicken Pad Thai

1. Chicken: The chicken is the star protein in this dish. You can use chicken breasts or thighs, sliced thinly for quick cooking.
2. Rice Noodles: These are the foundation of Pad Thai. They are light, soft, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
3. Eggs: Eggs give the dish richness and texture. They also help bind the noodles and vegetables together.
4. Vegetables: Pad Thai typically includes bean sprouts, green onions, and sometimes carrots. These ingredients add crunch and freshness.
5. Peanuts: Chopped peanuts provide a crunchy contrast to the soft noodles.
6. Pad Thai Sauce: The sauce is what makes Pad Thai unique. It’s a blend of tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and chili flakes for a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Tofu: You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Shrimp: Swap chicken for shrimp for a different twist.
• Vegetables: Customize with bell peppers, broccoli, or other vegetables to suit your taste.

The Best Noodles for Pad Thai

Choosing the right noodles is critical for making an authentic Pad Thai. The noodles should be soft but not mushy, with a slight chewy texture that can hold up to the stir-frying process.

Rice Noodles

• What They Are: Rice noodles, also called sen lek in Thai, are flat, thin noodles made from rice flour. These noodles are perfect for absorbing the flavors of the sauce without becoming too soggy.
• What to Look For: Opt for thin to medium-width rice noodles. The thicker noodles may require a bit more cooking time and can overpower the sauce.
• How to Prepare: Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes to soften them. This helps them cook quickly when stir-frying.

Substitutes

• Rice Vermicelli: If you can’t find rice noodles, rice vermicelli is a good alternative. It’s a bit thinner but still works well in stir-fries.
• Gluten-Free Noodles: For those with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free noodles made from rice or corn can also work in this recipe.

How to Make Chicken Pad Thai

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients before cooking. This is important as Pad Thai requires quick stir-frying, and having everything ready will make the process much smoother.

1. Slice the Chicken: Thinly slice your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Soak the Noodles: Place the rice noodles in a bowl of warm water and let them soak for about 30 minutes until they are pliable but still firm.
3. Prep Vegetables: Chop the green onions, bean sprouts, and any other vegetables you’re using. Set them aside in separate bowls.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken and Stir-Frying

In a wok or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Noodles and Combining with Sauce

Using the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the soaked noodles, and stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the Pad Thai sauce, which is a mixture of tamarind paste, fish sauce, lime juice, and a bit of sugar. Toss the noodles to coat them evenly with the sauce.

Step 4: Tying Everything Together

Push the noodles to the side of the pan and crack two eggs into the space. Scramble the eggs and cook until they’re just set. Add the cooked chicken, vegetables, and chopped peanuts, then stir everything together. Cook for an additional minute to ensure the flavors are fully mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more fish sauce, lime juice, or sugar as needed.

Serving and Garnishing

Once your Chicken Pad Thai is ready, serve it hot with extra peanuts, fresh lime wedges, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures in every bite!

Can You Add Other Ingredients to This Pad Thai Recipe?

Pad Thai is a highly customizable dish, and you can add a variety of ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for tofu. Firm tofu works best as it holds its shape while stir-frying.
• Shrimp: If you love seafood, replace the chicken with shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a delicate flavor to the dish.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. They will add color and nutrients to the dish.
• Peanut Butter: Some people like to add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for an extra creamy texture and flavor.

Balancing the Flavors

When adding extra ingredients, be mindful of the flavor balance in your Pad Thai. Too many vegetables or proteins can dilute the sour, salty, and sweet flavors of the sauce. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go.

Can You Keep Any Leftovers?

Yes, Chicken Pad Thai keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for later meals. However, because the rice noodles can absorb moisture over time, the dish may become a little drier than when freshly cooked. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

1. Allow the Pad Thai to cool to room temperature.
2. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheating Leftovers

1. In a skillet or wok, reheat the Pad Thai over medium heat.
2. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of water or a little more Pad Thai sauce to bring back the moisture.
3. Stir frequently until it’s heated through and the noodles are softened.

Other Delicious Thai Recipes to Try

If you love Chicken Pad Thai, there are plenty of other Thai recipes that are just as tasty and easy to make at home. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Beef Massaman Curry: This rich, slow-cooked curry combines tender beef with potatoes, peanuts, and spices. It’s a comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
• Vegetarian Pad See Ew: This stir-fry uses wide rice noodles and vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and cabbage. The savory sauce and slight char from the stir-fry give it a deliciously smoky flavor.

Conclusion

This easy Chicken Pad Thai recipe is the perfect introduction to the world of Thai cooking. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful dish that rivals your favorite Thai restaurant. Remember to customize the recipe based on your preferences, and don’t forget to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving friends and family, this Pad Thai is sure to impress.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian? 

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian or vegan option. Make sure to use a plant-based Pad Thai sauce if you’re going vegan.

What is the best type of rice noodles to use? 

The best noodles for Pad Thai are medium-width rice noodles. You can also use rice vermicelli if you can’t find traditional Pad Thai noodles.

Can I make Pad Thai without tamarind paste? 

While tamarind paste is essential for authentic Pad Thai flavor, you can substitute it with a mixture of lime juice and brown sugar if necessary.

Can I make Pad Thai spicy? 

Absolutely! Add more chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies to increase the heat level according to your preference.

Can I freeze leftover Pad Thai? 

Pad Thai doesn’t freeze well due to the texture of the noodles. It’s best to store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.