Name: Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 7 oz rice noodles; 2 tbsp tamarind puree; 3 tbsp brown sugar; 3 ½ tbsp fish sauce; 2 ½ tbsp oyster sauce; 5 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 ½ garlic cloves; 1 onion sliced; 7 oz chicken breast minced; 3 eggs slightly whisked; 2 ½ cups bean sprouts; 1 cup tofu cut into small cubes; ½ cup green onions sliced; ½ cup roasted peanuts chopped; lime wedges; ground chili optional; extra bean sprouts for serving

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Nothing beats a cozy evening spent cooking up a storm in the kitchen, and that’s precisely why I adore making Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu. It’s one of those dishes that always brings back fond memories from my travels, where the streets were filled with the aroma of sizzling noodles and fresh ingredients. I remember the first time I tried it at a little stall in Thailand, and I was instantly hooked! The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is simply incredible. It’s the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and sour, creating a deliciously tangy experience that dances on your taste buds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu never fails to impress. I love how it can be a complete meal, loaded with vibrant veggies and protein, all tossed together in a delightful sauce. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, you’ve found it!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
490 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu Works

Authentic Thai Flavors

The secret to an amazing Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu lies in its authentic flavors. You’ll find that the combination of ingredients creates a beautiful balance, making each bite a delightful journey. From the rich taste of tamarind to the crunchiness of peanuts, each component plays a crucial role in crafting this dish. It truly embodies the essence of Thai cuisine, which emphasizes freshness and harmony in flavor.

Easy to Customize

I love how easily you can make this recipe your own. Whether you want to go vegetarian or swap out the chicken for shrimp, the possibilities are endless! You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, adding more chili for a kick or keeping it mild for the kiddos. This versatility makes Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu a staple in our home, as it can cater to everyone’s preferences.

Quick and Convenient

One of the best things about this recipe is its speed. You can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful meal that feels indulgent without taking hours to prepare. It’s a lifesaver for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want something special!

A Family Favorite

My family can’t get enough of Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu. The kids love the noodles, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without them even noticing. Plus, everyone can join in the cooking process, making it a fun activity together. I cherish these moments in the kitchen, sharing stories and laughter while whipping up this delightful dish.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re into meal prepping, this recipe is a fantastic choice. It stores well in the fridge, and the flavors only get better as they meld together. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you time and effort on busy days. Just reheat and serve, and you’re good to go!

What to Gather for Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu, and each one has a purpose. The main players in this dish include fresh vegetables, protein, and flavorful sauces that work in harmony to create a delightful meal. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

7 oz rice noodles – The foundation of Pad Thai, these noodles soak up the flavors beautifully.
2 tbsp tamarind puree – Adds a unique tangy flavor that’s essential for authenticity.
3 tbsp brown sugar – Balances out the acidity of the tamarind with a hint of sweetness.
3 ½ tbsp fish sauce – A key ingredient that brings depth and umami to the dish.
2 ½ tbsp oyster sauce – Enhances the savory profile and complements the other flavors.
5 tbsp vegetable oil – Essential for cooking and adds richness to the dish.
3 ½ garlic cloves – Adds fragrance and flavor, essential for any stir-fry.
1 onion, sliced – Provides sweetness and texture to the dish.
7 oz chicken breast, minced – A great source of protein to keep the dish hearty.
3 eggs, slightly whisked – Adds richness and makes the dish more filling.
2 ½ cups bean sprouts – Adds a nice crunch and freshness.
1 cup tofu, cut into small cubes – A great vegetarian protein option that absorbs flavors well.
½ cup green onions, sliced – Adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
½ cup roasted peanuts, chopped – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
lime wedges – Essential for a fresh squeeze when serving.
ground chili (optional) – For those who like a little heat.
extra bean sprouts (for serving) – To garnish and add freshness.

Step by Step Instructions for Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu

Making Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu is a rewarding experience, and with these detailed steps, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Just follow along, and get ready to indulge in a delicious homemade meal!

Start by placing the rice noodles in a bowl and covering them with boiling water. Let them soak for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial, as the noodles need to become pliable yet firm enough to hold their shape during cooking. Once they’ve soaked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a separate bowl, mix together the tamarind puree, brown sugar, fish sauce, and oyster sauce. This combination creates the signature sauce for your Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu. Make sure everything is well incorporated to allow the flavors to blend.
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over high heat. This is where the magic happens! Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and onion. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. You should see the onion starting to soften.
Add the minced chicken to the wok. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is mostly cooked through. You’re looking for it to turn golden brown and opaque.
Push the chicken to one side of the wok and pour the whisked eggs on the other side. Allow them to scramble for a moment, then mix them in with the chicken, creating a beautiful blend of flavors.
Now it’s time to add the bean sprouts, tofu, soaked noodles, and your prepared sauce. Toss everything gently for about 1 to 2 minutes, making sure the sauce is absorbed and each ingredient is coated nicely. Watch as the colors come together beautifully!
Add the green onions and half of the peanuts to the wok. Toss quickly to combine, and then remove from heat. The residual heat will keep everything warm and delicious.
To serve, plate up your Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu and top it with the remaining peanuts, lime wedges, and extra bean sprouts. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some ground chili on top for added heat. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Choose the Right Noodles: Use rice noodles specifically made for Pad Thai to achieve the right texture. Thai rice noodles tend to have the best flavor and chewiness.
Don’t Over-Soak the Noodles: They should be pliable but still a little firm because they’ll finish cooking in the wok. Too long in hot water and they’ll turn mushy.
Keep the Heat High: A hot wok gives you that quick sear and glossy finish. Don’t be afraid of a little sizzle; this adds flavor!
Balance Is Everything: Taste your sauce before it hits the noodles — adjust with a pinch more sugar for sweetness or a squeeze of lime for tang.
Toss, Don’t Stir: Gently lift and turn the noodles with tongs so they don’t break apart; this will give you the perfect texture.
Make It Your Own: Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, go all tofu for vegetarian, or add crushed chili for a spicy kick.

Making Adjustments

When it comes to perfecting your Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu, here are some tips to consider for adjustments or variations:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing: While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a sealed container for up to a month. Just be aware that the noodles may lose some texture when reheating.
Pairing: Serve it alongside a light cucumber salad or summer rolls for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Adjust the Spice: If you enjoy heat, consider adding sliced fresh chili into the stir-fry or serving with chili flakes on the side.
Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian fish sauce.

What to Serve Alongside Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu

When serving Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu, it’s essential to consider complementary dishes and occasions. Here are some ideas:

Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with cucumbers, carrots, and a light dressing pairs perfectly to balance the richness of Pad Thai.
Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls with a dipping sauce make a delightful appetizer to start your meal.
Thai Iced Tea: This sweet, creamy beverage complements the savory flavors of the dish beautifully.
Casual Family Dinner: Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu is perfect for a laid-back family dinner. It’s a dish that everyone can enjoy, and it’s easy to prepare in larger quantities.
Meal Prep: This dish is also fantastic for meal prepping. Make a large batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.
Festive Gatherings: It’s also a great dish to serve during festive occasions or casual get-togethers. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized to suit different tastes.

FAQ

Pad Thai is a famous Thai noodle dish made with stir-fried rice noodles, vegetables, protein, and a flavorful sauce. It’s typically garnished with lime and crushed peanuts, providing a delightful balance of flavors and textures. There are many variations, including vegetarian and seafood options, making it a versatile and beloved meal worldwide.

Yes, you can prepare Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu in advance. It stores well in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The flavors will continue to develop, making it an excellent option for meal prep!

If you can’t find tamarind puree, you can use a combination of lime juice and brown sugar as a substitute. This won’t replicate the exact flavor but will provide a similar tangy-sweet profile. You can also experiment with other sour ingredients like vinegar; however, the taste may vary from the authentic Pad Thai experience.

While Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu can be part of a healthy diet, it’s essential to consider portion sizes and the ingredients used. It contains protein from chicken and tofu, fiber from vegetables, and carbohydrates from noodles. To make it healthier, you can increase the vegetable content or reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pad Thai With Chicken Tofu is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; you’ll find that making this classic Thai dish at home is both fulfilling and delicious!