Name: Homemade Chicken Pad Thai
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons tamarind paste (for the signature tangy flavor); 3 tablespoons fish sauce (adds umami depth); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for a rich salty flavor); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (balances the flavors with acidity); 3 tablespoons brown sugar (to add sweetness); 6 oz rice noodles (the heart of Pad Thai); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying); 1 onion (sautéed for sweetness); 2 cloves garlic, minced (for aromatics); 6 oz chicken breast, cut into strips (adds protein); 6 oz extra-firm tofu, cut into bite-sized cubes (vegetarian-friendly option); 2 large eggs (adds richness); 1 cup bean sprouts (for crunch); 5 scallions, cut into 1-inch strips (for mild onion flavor); ½ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped (for crunch); 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (optional for kick); 1 lime, cut into wedges (for garnishing)

If you’re craving a taste of Thailand but don’t want to step out of your kitchen, making Homemade Chicken Pad Thai is the perfect solution. This dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with its savory sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy peanuts. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week, and honestly, once you try it, takeout will never be the same!

Why Cooks Rave About It

There’s something truly magical about Homemade Chicken Pad Thai. The blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors comes together in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Not only does it satisfy your taste buds, but it also offers a vibrant presentation that can impress any guest. Plus, making it at home means you can control the ingredients and customize it to your liking, ensuring that every bite is just as you want it.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 tablespoons tamarind paste – This gives the dish its signature tangy flavor.
3 tablespoons fish sauce – Adds umami depth.
2 tablespoons soy sauce – For a rich salty flavor.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Balances the flavors with a bit of acidity.
3 tablespoons brown sugar – To add sweetness that harmonizes with the savory elements.
6 oz rice noodles – The heart of Pad Thai, these noodles soak up all the flavors.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Essential for frying the ingredients.
1 onion – Sautéed to bring sweetness and aromatics.
2 cloves garlic, minced – A must for that aromatic base.
6 oz chicken breast, cut into strips – Adds protein and heartiness.
6 oz extra-firm tofu, cut into bite-sized cubes – Provides a vegetarian-friendly option with great texture.
2 large eggs – Adds richness and helps bind the dish together.
1 cup bean sprouts, divided – For crunch and freshness.
5 scallions, cut into 1-inch strips – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
½ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped, divided – For that signature crunch.
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce – Optional, for those who like an extra kick.
1 lime, cut into wedges – For garnishing and a burst of fresh flavor.

Must-Have Equipment

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following equipment:

Large skillet or wok – Ideal for stir-frying the ingredients evenly.
Pot for boiling noodles – Necessary to prepare the rice noodles perfectly.
Spatula – For tossing and mixing the ingredients.
Measuring spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
Cutting board and knife – For prepping your vegetables and proteins.

Mastering Homemade Chicken Pad Thai: How-To

Creating Homemade Chicken Pad Thai is a straightforward process that will have your kitchen smelling amazing in no time. Follow these steps to get it just right:

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s at a rolling boil, add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.