If you’re in the mood for a vibrant and flavorful dish, look no further than chicken pad thai! This beloved Thai stir-fry combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rice noodles, all tossed in a tangy tamarind sauce. It’s a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress!
Ingredients
– 200g rice noodles
– 200g chicken breast, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 100g bean sprouts
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 3 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 person): Calories: 550, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 70g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 3g. This nutritional information provides a good balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 20 minutes until soft, then drain.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Add sliced chicken and cook until browned.
5. Push the chicken to one side of the pan and crack the egg on the other.
6. Scramble the egg until fully cooked, then mix with chicken.
7. Add the drained noodles to the pan and toss everything together.
8. In a small bowl, mix tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar.
9. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
10. Add bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for an additional minute.
11. Serve hot with lime wedges and garnish with peanuts and cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Additionally, feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken pad thai is best served hot, garnished with lime wedges and chopped peanuts. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or spring rolls for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat until heated through. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the noodles may change.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the noodles; they should be al dente.
– Ensure the pan is hot before adding ingredients to prevent sticking.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Adjust the sauce to your taste—add more tamarind for tanginess.
– Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Helpful Tips
– Soak noodles in warm water instead of boiling to maintain texture.
– Use a high smoke point oil for stir-frying to prevent burning.
– Fresh lime juice enhances flavor; don’t skip it.
– Toast peanuts for added crunch and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make pad thai vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables. Use soy sauce instead of fish sauce for a vegetarian option.
What is the best way to store pad thai?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop to maintain texture.
Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes, you can use rice vermicelli or any other stir-fry noodles. Cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
What can I serve with chicken pad thai?
Pair it with a fresh salad, spring rolls, or Thai iced tea for a complete meal experience.
Is chicken pad thai spicy?
The standard recipe is not very spicy, but you can add chili flakes or fresh chilies to increase the heat level to your preference.
Conclusion
Chicken pad thai is a delightful dish that combines a variety of flavors and textures. With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe, and enjoy a taste of Thailand right at home!
Chicken Pad Thai Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g rice noodles
- 200 g chicken breast sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 egg
- 100 g bean sprouts
- 2 green onions chopped
- 3 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 lime cut into wedges
- Chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 20 minutes until soft, then drain.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add sliced chicken and cook until browned.
- Push the chicken to one side of the pan and crack the egg on the other.
- Scramble the egg until fully cooked, then mix with chicken.
- Add the drained noodles to the pan and toss everything together.
- In a small bowl, mix tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar.
- Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for an additional minute.
- Serve hot with lime wedges and garnish with peanuts and cilantro.