Easy Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp Recipe

Name: Easy Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: Flat rice noodles; Boneless chicken breast (sliced) or peeled shrimp; Eggs; Tamarind paste; Low-sodium soy sauce; Fish sauce; Brown sugar; Bean sprouts; Green onions; Crushed peanuts (for garnish); Fresh cilantro (for garnish); Lime wedges (for serving)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

February 11, 2025

Updated:

February 11, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly balances sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors in one bite? If so, Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp is the ultimate culinary experience for your taste buds! Imagine tender rice noodles stir-fried to perfection, enveloped in a rich sauce made from tamarind paste and soy sauce. Each mouthful bursts with vibrant textures: crunchy peanuts, fresh bean sprouts, and succulent proteins.

This delightful dish is not only popular at street food stalls in Thailand but has also become a favorite around the globe. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself on a weeknight, this recipe serves as an ideal choice. It’s packed with protein from chicken or shrimp and paired with colorful veggies that add nutrition and appeal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this amazing flavor experience!

Why You’ll Love This Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp.

Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have much time.
Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out proteins and vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring a versatile meal every time.
Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of tamarind paste, fish sauce, and fresh lime juice creates an irresistible balance of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and lean protein choices like chicken or shrimp, this dish can be enjoyed guilt-free while still satisfying your cravings.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Rice Noodles: Use flat rice noodles for the best texture; soak them in warm water until soft before cooking.
Chicken Breast or Shrimp: Choose boneless chicken breasts cut into thin slices for even cooking or fresh shrimp peeled and deveined for quick preparation.
Eggs: Two large eggs will add richness; scramble them in the pan alongside your other ingredients.
Tamarind Paste: This ingredient adds a signature sour flavor; look for it in Asian grocery stores if unavailable locally.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing flavor; feel free to use regular if preferred.

For the Sauce:

Fish Sauce: This is essential for authentic taste; it adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
Brown Sugar: A small amount balances out the tangy flavors; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.

For Garnishing:

Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; chop some leaves to sprinkle over the final dish before serving.
Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra punch of acidity when eating.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp.

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Soak rice noodles in warm water according to package instructions until they are flexible but still firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Protein

In a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat, add oil. Once hot, add sliced chicken breast or shrimp and cook until browned and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Scramble Eggs

In the same pan, crack two eggs directly into the hot oil. Stir quickly to scramble them until just set (approximately one minute).

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add soaked noodles back into the pan along with tamarind paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and mix well until everything is evenly coated (around two minutes).

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Toss in bean sprouts and chopped green onions. Continue cooking for another two minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce if desired. Garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro before serving.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that your ingredients get crispy rather than soggy.
Mise en Place: Prepare all ingredients beforehand so you can work quickly when cooking since everything cooks fast!
Add Lime Juice Last: Squeeze fresh lime juice over your finished dish just before serving for maximum freshness.

Mistakes to avoid

Using stale ingredients: Freshness is key when making Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp. Using old, dried-out noodles or expired sauces can drastically affect flavor and texture. Always check the expiration dates on your ingredients. Fresh bean sprouts, herbs, and proteins will elevate your dish. If you can, buy ingredients from local markets where freshness is prioritized. This ensures that you get the best taste and health benefits from your dish.
Overcooking the noodles: One common mistake in preparing Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp is overcooking the rice noodles. They should be soaked until just tender but still have a slight bite—known as “al dente.” If you overcook them, they will turn mushy and lose their unique texture. Follow package instructions carefully and keep an eye on them while soaking to achieve the perfect noodle consistency for your stir-fry.
Skipping the tamarind paste: Tamarind paste is a crucial ingredient in authentic Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp. It adds a unique sweet-sour flavor that balances out the dish beautifully. Skipping this ingredient can lead to a bland result. If you cannot find tamarind paste, consider using a mixture of lime juice and brown sugar as an alternative, but be aware that it won’t replicate the original depth of flavor entirely.
Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes like crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro are not just for decoration; they enhance the overall dining experience of your Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp. Neglecting these elements means missing out on additional layers of flavor and texture. Always take a moment to prepare these toppings before serving to add that final touch that elevates your dish from good to great.
Cooking at low heat: When stir-frying Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp, cooking at low heat can result in soggy ingredients instead of achieving that deliciously charred flavor. High heat is essential for creating that signature wok hei—an aromatic quality imparted by high-temperature cooking. Ensure your pan is preheated before adding oil and other ingredients for optimal results.

Serving Suggestions

This Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Fresh Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over your dish to enhance the flavors. The acidity beautifully balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Serve alongside crispy spring rolls for a delightful appetizer. Their crunch complements the soft texture of Pad Thai.
Sautéed Vegetables: A side of sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers and broccoli, adds color and nutrition. They provide a great contrast to the rich flavors in your main dish.

FAQs

What is Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp?

Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp is a classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish that features rice noodles tossed with eggs, vegetables, and either chicken or shrimp. It typically includes flavorful ingredients such as tamarind paste, fish sauce, and peanuts, giving it a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and savory tastes. This dish is popular for its balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite in Thai cuisine.

Can I make Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily adapt Pad Thai by replacing chicken or shrimp with tofu or additional vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of fish sauce for added depth without animal products. This vegetarian version retains the essential flavors while catering to different dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.

How do I store leftovers of Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp?

To store leftovers of Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within three days for optimal freshness. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness. You can use a microwave or stovetop to warm it up gently while stirring occasionally for even heating.

Can I customize the ingredients in my Pad Thai?

Absolutely! One of the great aspects of Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp is its flexibility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, bok choy, or snap peas. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding more chili flakes or fresh chilies according to your taste preference.

Conclusion for Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp

Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp is not just a meal; it’s an experience rich in flavor and tradition. With its combination of tender noodles, protein, and vibrant veggies, this dish captures the essence of Thai cooking. Remember to serve it with lime wedges and complementary sides like spring rolls for an authentic touch. Whether you follow a traditional recipe or customize it to your liking, you’ll find that this dish offers endless possibilities for enjoyment at any gathering. Embrace the deliciousness that comes from preparing this beloved recipe at home!