Chicken Pad Thai

Chicken Pad Thai is a classic Thai street food favorite that delivers a delicious balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. With its tender chicken, perfectly chewy rice noodles, crisp bean sprouts, and zesty lime-kissed sauce, this dish is a comforting yet vibrant meal that’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner. This homemade version is simpler and more accessible than you might think, using ingredients commonly found in most grocery stores while still capturing the authentic flavor of this beloved dish.

The key to a great Pad Thai lies in its sauce—a harmonious blend of ketchup, fish sauce, garlic, lime juice, and just a hint of peanut butter. Together with tender chunks of seasoned chicken and scrambled eggs, the noodles soak up every drop of this bold sauce, creating a layered dish with dynamic taste and texture. Whether you’re already a Pad Thai fan or trying it for the first time, this version will quickly become a favorite.

Perfect for using up leftover veggies or tailoring with your preferred spice level, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. Add a handful of chopped peanuts or extra red pepper flakes to amp up the flavor even more. Once you master the simple steps, you’ll skip takeout and make this at home on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavor at Home

Enjoy the restaurant-quality taste of Chicken Pad Thai using easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward method.

Quick and Easy

With just a few steps, this meal comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.

Family-Friendly

Customizable spice levels make it a hit with both adults and kids, while the familiar noodle texture keeps it approachable.

Versatile Ingredients

Use whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand—Pad Thai is very forgiving and flexible.

Budget-Friendly

Homemade Pad Thai is far more cost-effective than takeout while being just as satisfying.

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Ingredients

Main

• Flat rice noodles
• Chicken breast
• Salt and pepper
• Eggs
• Fresh bean sprouts
• Green onions
• White onions
• Cilantro
• Optional: peanuts

Sauce

• Ketchup
• Fish sauce
• Sugar
• Minced garlic
• Peanut butter
• Lime juice
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Soy sauce

Variations

• Vegetarian Pad Thai: Skip the chicken and fish sauce. Use tofu and a vegetarian fish sauce substitute or more soy sauce.
• Spicy Pad Thai: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
• Nut-Free Version: Omit peanut butter and peanuts, or use sunflower seed butter as a substitute.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap rice noodles for spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2

Season chopped chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3

In the same pan, lightly scramble the eggs until just set. Push them to the side of the pan.

Step 4

Add sliced white onion to the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until just softened.

Step 5

Return the chicken to the pan along with the noodles. Toss everything together gently.

Step 6

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, peanut butter, lime juice, red pepper flakes, and soy sauce. Pour the sauce over the noodle mixture and toss well to coat evenly.

Step 7

Stir in bean sprouts, green onions, and chopped cilantro. Cook for another 2 minutes, just until warmed through.

Step 8

Plate the Pad Thai and top with chopped peanuts and a fresh lime wedge, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the noodles—they should be slightly firm to avoid becoming mushy.
• Use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
• Always prep your sauce in advance so it’s ready to go when the noodles hit the pan.
• Rinse noodles in cold water after cooking to stop them from clumping.
• Adjust lime juice and sugar to taste to get the perfect tangy-sweet balance.

How to Serve

Serve Chicken Pad Thai hot, straight from the pan. Garnish with additional cilantro, crushed peanuts, lime wedges, or chili flakes. It pairs well with Thai iced tea, fresh cucumber salad, or steamed edamame. For presentation, use shallow bowls and tongs to twirl the noodles neatly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Pad Thai doesn’t freeze well due to the texture of the noodles, which can become mushy upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring between rounds.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, shrimp, tofu, or beef all work well in place of chicken.

2. What can I substitute for fish sauce?

Soy sauce or tamari can be used, though fish sauce offers a more authentic taste.

3. Is Pad Thai supposed to be spicy?

It’s mildly spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat to your preference.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your fish sauce is gluten-free.

5. How do I prevent noodles from sticking?

Toss noodles in a little oil after cooking and rinse with cold water.

6. What kind of noodles should I buy?

Flat rice noodles are traditional, but fettuccine can be used in a pinch.

7. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

8. What vegetables go well in Pad Thai?

Carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, and shredded cabbage are all good additions.

9. Do I need a wok to make this?

No, a large skillet or non-stick pan works perfectly fine.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and compromising texture.

Conclusion

Homemade Chicken Pad Thai offers an unbeatable combination of flavor, texture, and simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of prep, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite takeout version—fresh, delicious, and entirely customizable. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or impressing dinner guests, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation for satisfying, flavorful meals at home.

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