Easy

Chicken Pad Thai

Name: Chicken Pad Thai
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 225 g rice stick noodles (5mm wide); 450 g boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin across the grain); 3 tbsp tamarind paste; 3 tbsp fish sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 3 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 whole large eggs (beaten); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups fresh bean sprouts; 3 whole green onions (cut into 2-inch pieces); 0.5 cup roasted peanuts (crushed); 1 whole lime (cut into wedges); 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes

35 min4480 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|April 1, 2024

This Thai street-food classic brings bold, balanced flavors to your Canadian kitchen with rice noodles, tender chicken, and a tangy-sweet tamarind sauce that's dangerously addictive. It's faster than takeout and tastes fresher, with crisp bean sprouts and crunchy peanuts adding texture to every bite—perfect for busy weeknights when you're craving something exciting.

asian-inspiredquébécois

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Ingredients

Servings:

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Noodle Rinse Timing

“Soak the rice sticks in cold water just until pliable, then briefly blanch for 30 seconds before tossing into the wok; this prevents them from over‑softening when you finish the sauce, keeping the Pad Thai’s signature bite.”

About This Recipe

Chicken Pad Thai is a beloved dish that beautifully encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Thailand while being embraced by Canadian home cooks across the country. Its combination of tender chicken, chewy rice noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables creates a delightful texture that is both satisfying and comforting. The harmony of salty, sweet, and tangy notes from the tamarind and lime sauce makes each bite an explosion of flavor, perfect for any casual dinner or special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish brings an element of excitement to the table that everyone can enjoy.

Tips for the Best Chicken Pad Thai

To achieve the perfect Chicken Pad Thai, it's crucial to use a hot wok to create that signature smoky flavor. Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption, and avoid overcooking it to maintain juiciness. When stirring the noodles, work quickly to prevent them from sticking, and be sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as this dish comes together swiftly.

What to Serve With It

Serving Chicken Pad Thai is a delightful experience, especially when garnished with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added crunch. Pair it with a light cucumber salad or a refreshing Thai iced tea to balance the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it alongside a Canadian twist, like some crispy spring rolls filled with local vegetables to complement the main dish.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers of Chicken Pad Thai can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent the noodles from drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Per Serving

480

Calories

31g

Protein

17g

Fat

24g

Carbs

Fiber6g

Sugar2g

Sodium596mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use tofu instead of chicken in this Pad Thai recipe?+

Absolutely! Tofu is a great vegetarian substitute. Ensure you use firm tofu, press it to remove excess moisture, and sauté it until golden for the best texture.

What kind of rice noodles should I use for Chicken Pad Thai?+

Flat rice noodles are ideal for Pad Thai. Look for those labeled as 'Pad Thai noodles' or 'rice stick noodles' in your local grocery store, typically in the Asian foods section.

How can I make the sauce spicier?+

For a kick of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to your sauce. Adjust to your taste preference for the perfect spice level.

What vegetables work best in Chicken Pad Thai?+

Common choices include bean sprouts, carrots, and bell peppers. Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like snap peas or shredded cabbage for extra crunch and color!

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?+

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce, and make sure your rice noodles are certified gluten-free to enjoy this dish safely.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

20 min

Cook:

15 min

Total:

35 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Don't oversoak the noodles—they should still have some resistance when you bend them, as they'll finish cooking in the wok.
2Work fast once the wok is hot. Have all ingredients prepped and within arm's reach before you start cooking.
3If your wok isn't large enough, cook in two batches rather than crowding—high heat is essential for that authentic smoky flavor.
4Substitute lime juice mixed with a pinch of sugar if you can't find tamarind paste at your local Asian grocery.

Variations

Use shrimp or firm tofu instead of chicken for a seafood or vegetarian version.
Add julienned carrots or thinly sliced red bell pepper for extra vegetables and color.
Swap peanuts for cashews and add a tablespoon of hoisin sauce for a slightly sweeter profile.

Asian-Inspired Chicken

Chicken Pad Thai

Warning: This Chicken Pad Thai is dangerously good. Save now!

by ChickenRecipes.ca

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Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience