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Easy Chicken Pad Thai in 20 Minutes - Better Than Takeout

This Easy Chicken Pad Thai recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, delivering a delicious takeout experience with tender rice noodles and juicy chicken.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Noodles
  • 8 oz Flat Rice Noodles Cook according to package instructions.
For the Sauce and Flavorings
  • 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil Can be substituted with vegetable oil.
  • 1 tbsp Coconut Oil Substitute with any neutral oil if preferred.
  • 3 tbsp Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Tamari works for gluten-free.
  • 1 tbsp Fish Sauce Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice Always use fresh juice.
  • 1 tbsp Honey or Agave Syrup Adjust according to sweetness preference.
For the Protein and Veggies
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Juicy thighs can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic gives better flavor.
  • 1 tsp Ground Ginger Fresh ginger can be halved for substitution.
  • 2 cups Thinly Sliced Green Cabbage Coleslaw mix can be a handy alternative.
  • 1 cup Shredded Carrots Optional but enhances texture.
  • 1 large Egg (scrambled) Optional, but recommended for added richness.
For Garnishing
  • to taste Sriracha Add according to taste preferences.
  • 2 green Onions (sliced) Thai basil is a good substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Roasted Peanuts Omit for a lighter dish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet or Wok

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Start by boiling a large pot of water and cooking the flat rice noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they are tender yet firm to the bite (al dente). Drain the noodles once cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set them aside.
  2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once the oils shimmer, add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add the thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken breast to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is no longer pink and has a slight golden color.
  4. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Cook these aromatics for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously until they're fragrant.
  5. Add the thinly sliced green cabbage and shredded carrots. Pour in 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and the juice of 1 lime. Cover and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the drained rice noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together gently. Drizzle in 1-2 tablespoons of honey or agave syrup, and carefully fold the mixture for about 1 minute over medium heat.
  7. Push the noodle mixture to one side of the skillet and crack in a large egg, scrambling it for about a minute until it's fully cooked and combined.
  8. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts. Serve immediately with lime wedges and sriracha.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking chicken and rinsing noodles under cold water to maintain texture.