Homemade Pad Thai (Chicken)

If you’ve ever craved the comforting flavors of authentic Thai cuisine, look no further than this Homemade Pad Thai (Chicken). With its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy elements, Pad Thai is a delicious dish that brings the vibrant streets of Thailand right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with fresh ingredients that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into making this beloved dish from scratch!

Top Reasons to Make Homemade Pad Thai (Chicken)

• Fresh Ingredients: You control the quality and freshness of each component, ensuring a healthier meal.
• Customization: Adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste, whether you want it spicier, sweeter, or with more veggies.
• Cost-Effective: Making Pad Thai at home is often cheaper than ordering takeout, plus you get to make a larger batch!
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.

Shopping List

• 8 oz. wide rice noodles (may substitute with fettuccine)
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp vegetable or peanut oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
• 1/3 cup minced shallots
• 1 1/2 cups matchstick carrots
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 cups (6 oz.) bean sprouts
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp fish sauce
• 3 tbsp lime juice
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp smooth peanut butter
• 1-1 1/2 tbsp chili paste like Sambal Oelek
• 3/4 tsp each dried basil, ground coriander, ground ginger
• 1/4-1/2 tsp pepper

Must-Have Equipment

• Wok or Large Skillet: Ideal for stir-frying ingredients quickly at high heat.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps to mix and toss the ingredients efficiently.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in measuring ingredients.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping your vegetables and chicken.

Homemade Pad Thai (Chicken) Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions. If using fettuccine, cook until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable or peanut oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast and cook until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the minced shallots, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, toss in the matchstick carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Cook until scrambled and just set, then mix everything together in the pan.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken back to the pan along with the prepared noodles. Stir in the bean sprouts, green onions, and chopped cilantro.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, peanut butter, and chili paste. Pour this sauce over the noodle mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Dish out the Pad Thai onto plates and sprinkle with roughly chopped peanuts and additional cilantro if desired. A squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing finish!

Quick Replacement Ideas

• If you don’t have rice noodles, substitute with quinoa or spaghetti for a different texture.
• For a vegetarian option, swap chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free version.
• Try using green bell peppers or other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for variety.

Flavor Logic

The beauty of Homemade Pad Thai (Chicken) lies in the harmonious blend of flavors. The savory depth from the fish sauce perfectly complements the sweetness of brown sugar, while the tangy lime juice brightens the dish. Peanut butter adds a creamy richness, and the chili paste brings in a delightful heat. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a balanced dish that’s not only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Leftover Pad Thai can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional sauce to prevent the noodles from drying out. For longer storage, consider freezing the Pad Thai. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated thoroughly before serving.

Ask the Chef

Can I use another type of protein besides chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp, beef, or even tofu work wonderfully in Pad Thai. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is it necessary to use fish sauce?

Fish sauce adds a unique umami flavor, but if you prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with extra soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative.

What can I do if my Pad Thai is too dry?

If your Pad Thai seems dry, add a little more sauce or a splash of water while stirring to help moisten it up. Remember, the noodles can soak up a lot of moisture!

Can I make Pad Thai ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and stir-fry them just before serving. However, it’s best to store the sauce separately until ready to combine to keep the noodles from getting soggy.

Try These Next

• Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
• Creamy Thai Coconut Curry Pasta

The Last Word

This Homemade Pad Thai (Chicken) recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Thailand in your own home. With its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and incredible taste, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish offers a wonderful culinary adventure that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!

Share on Pinterest