Unlock the secrets of thai cuisine: easy-to-follow spicy chicken pad thai recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Thailand with our easy spicy chicken pad thai recipe. This delectable dish combines the perfect balance of sweet, sour, savory, and spicy notes, creating an explosion of taste that will leave you craving more. With its ease of preparation and customizable spice level, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1 pound)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup tamarind paste
• 1/4 cup fish sauce
• 1/4 cup palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
• 1 tablespoon red chili paste (adjust for desired spice level)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice

For the Pad Thai:

• 8 ounces rice noodles
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped carrots
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup bean sprouts

For Garnish:

• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into thin slices and marinate in a mixture of soy sauce and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Noodles: Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes, or according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, fish sauce, palm sugar, crushed peanuts, red chili paste, and lime juice until smooth.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Prepare the Pad Thai: In the same skillet, add the noodles, green onions, red bell pepper, carrots, egg, and bean sprouts. Stir-fry until the noodles are soft and the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the pad thai and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coated the noodles.
7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pad thai to a serving dish and garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Customization:

• Adjust the Spice Level: Control the heat of your pad thai by adjusting the amount of red chili paste used in the sauce. For a milder dish, use less paste; for a spicier dish, use more.
• Add Your Favorite Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your pad thai, such as broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn.
• Use Different Protein Sources: Swap out the chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef for a vegetarian or alternative protein option.

Health Benefits of Pad Thai:

• High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like green onions, red bell pepper, and carrots provide an array of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and potassium.
• Low in Fat: Pad thai is a relatively low-fat dish, making it a healthier option compared to other noodle dishes.

How to Store and Reheat Pad Thai:

• Storage: Store leftover pad thai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pad thai in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or sauce to prevent sticking.

Wrap Up: A Culinary Journey with Every Bite

Our easy spicy chicken pad thai recipe is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you longing for more. With its perfect balance of flavors and customizable spice level, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves Thai cuisine or enjoys cooking delicious and satisfying meals. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey that will ignite your senses and create lasting memories.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use other types of noodles for pad thai?

Yes, you can use other flat rice noodles, such as flat pho noodles or linguine.

2. What can I use if I don’t have tamarind paste?

You can substitute tamarind paste with lemon juice or white vinegar. Use about 1/4 cup of lemon juice or 2 tablespoons of white vinegar.

3. How do I make my pad thai vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and replace it with extra tofu, vegetables, or your favorite plant-based protein.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pad thai ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

5. What are some other toppings I can add to my pad thai?

Try adding crushed peanuts, chopped cucumber, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor and texture.