Bring the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with this Easy Pad Thai recipe. A perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, this dish features stir-fried rice noodles with tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, fresh vegetables, and a delicious tangy sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and quick, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner. Garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Pad Thai Sauce
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste (or lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, tamarind paste (or lime juice), rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using) until well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Add the bean sprouts, red bell pepper, and green onions, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked rice noodles and chicken back to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Divide the Pad Thai among plates. Garnish with crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your homemade Easy Pad Thai with its authentic flavors and satisfying textures!
