Basic Chicken Pad Thai Recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Thailand with our basic chicken pad thai recipe. This beloved dish combines the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will empower you to master the art of pad thai, bringing the vibrant streets of Bangkok to your own dining table.

Ingredients:

For the Pad Thai Sauce:

• 1/4 cup tamarind paste
• 1/4 cup palm sugar or brown sugar
• 1/4 cup fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (optional)

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pad Thai Noodles:

• 8 ounces flat rice noodles
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Garnish:

• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pad Thai Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, palm sugar, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha sauce (if using). Set aside.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a medium bowl, combine the chicken strips with the vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

3. Soak the Rice Noodles:

• In a large bowl, cover the flat rice noodles with the warm water. Let soak for 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are softened but still have a slight chewiness.

4. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

5. Stir-Fry the Noodles:

• Drain the soaked noodles and add them to the same skillet.
• Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.

6. Add the Sauce and Chicken:

• Pour the prepared pad thai sauce into the skillet and stir to combine.
• Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped peanuts, green onions, and cilantro.
• Transfer the pad thai to a serving dish and garnish with lime wedges.

Tips for Success:

• Use fresh tamarind paste for the most authentic flavor.
• If you don’t have palm sugar, you can substitute brown sugar or granulated sugar.
• Don’t overcook the noodles, as they should still have a slight bite to them.
• Adjust the spiciness level by adding more or less Sriracha sauce to the sauce.
• Serve the pad thai immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Variations:

• Add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or bean sprouts to the stir-fry.
• Use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for a vegetarian or seafood option.
• Serve the pad thai with a side of crispy fried shallots for an extra crunch.

The Perfect Pairing:

Complement your basic chicken pad thai recipe with a refreshing glass of Thai iced tea or a cold Singha beer. The sweetness of the iced tea will balance the spicy notes of the pad thai, while the bitterness of the beer will cut through the richness.

A Culinary Journey to Thailand:

With each bite of this basic chicken pad thai recipe, you’ll embark on a culinary journey to the bustling streets of Thailand. The vibrant flavors and aromas will transport you to a world of exotic spices, fresh produce, and the warmth of Thai hospitality.

FAQ:

Q: Can I make the pad thai sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: How do I know when the noodles are done?
A: The noodles should be softened but still have a slight chewiness to them. Taste a noodle to check for doneness.

Q: What if I don’t have a wok?
A: You can use a large skillet or frying pan instead of a wok. Just make sure to use a spatula to keep the noodles from sticking to the pan.

Q: Can I use other types of noodles?
A: Yes, you can use other types of flat noodles such as linguine or fettuccine. However, the texture will be slightly different.

Q: How can I make the pad thai vegan?
A: To make the pad thai vegan, use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and omit the fish sauce.