Chicken Pad Thai Recipe: Decadent and Full of Flavor

If you’re looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s both comforting and healthy, this chicken Pad Thai recipe is perfect for you. A harmonious blend of tender chicken, chewy rice noodles, and tangy tamarind sauce, this classic Pad Thai chicken recipe is a favorite for those who enjoy a taste of authentic Thai cuisine. Easy to prepare, this recipe strikes a balance between sweet, salty, sour, and spicy, making it a must-try for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Plus, it’s packed with protein and flavor, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy.

Chicken Pad Thai

Recipe by SouhailCuisine: ThaiDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

500

kcal

A flavorful Pad Thai recipe with chicken, combining stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, scrambled eggs, and a rich tamarind-based sauce, topped with crunchy peanuts and fresh lime.

Ingredients

200g (7 oz) rice noodles
300g (10.5 oz) chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup bean sprouts
3 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp tamarind paste
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp lime juice
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup crushed peanuts
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Directions

Cook the noodles: Follow the package instructions to cook the rice noodles. Drain and set aside.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, tamarind paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Set aside.
Prepare the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and stir-fry until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the eggs: In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set, then push them to one side of the pan.
Sauté vegetables and combine: Add garlic and onion to the other side of the pan, sauté until fragrant. Then add the cooked chicken, noodles, and sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
Toss with bean sprouts: Fold in bean sprouts and green onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve: Garnish with crushed peanuts, chili flakes, cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, ensure to use gluten-free tamarind paste and soy sauce.
Adjust the spice level to your taste by adding or reducing the chili flakes.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Pad Thai:

Pre-soak the noodles: Ensure your rice noodles are soft and pliable before stir-frying. If they are too hard, they will remain undercooked, and too soft, they will turn mushy.
Balance the sauce: The sauce is the heart of this Pad Thai chicken recipe. Taste it before adding it to the dish, making sure it balances all four key flavors – salty (fish sauce), sour (tamarind), sweet (sugar), and tangy (lime).
Control the heat: A high cooking temperature is essential for achieving that perfect stir-fried texture, but be mindful not to burn the garlic or eggs.
Customize your protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, swap it out for shrimp, tofu, or even beef.
Garnishes matter: Don’t skip the garnishes. The fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and crunchy peanuts elevate the flavor and texture of the dish.

FAQ

Can I substitute the tamarind paste in Pad Thai?

Yes, if you don’t have tamarind paste, you can substitute it with a mixture of lime juice and a little brown sugar, or rice vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. While tamarind provides the authentic taste, these substitutes work in a pinch.

What type of noodles should I use for Pad Thai?

Traditional Pad Thai is made with thin rice noodles, sometimes labeled as “Pad Thai noodles” at the store. Be sure to soak or cook them according to package instructions before stir-frying to avoid mushiness.

Whether you’re new to cooking Thai cuisine or looking for a way to recreate restaurant favorites at home, this Pad Thai recipe with chicken is a delicious, satisfying choice. With its balance of flavors and ease of preparation, it’s the perfect addition to your dinner rotation. Customize the recipe to your taste and enjoy every bite. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again!

If you are looking for another original Thai dish, I suggest you try Phat Si-Io Recipe!