Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu

Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand straight to your kitchen. This noodle dish is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience packed with aromatic spices and diverse textures. With tender chicken, silky tofu, and a medley of fresh veggies, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Pad Thai!

The Upside of Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu

If you’ve ever craved a comforting, savory dish that balances sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu is your answer. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines the goodness of protein-rich chicken and tofu, making it a fantastic option for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. The rich combination of tamarind, fish sauce, and oyster sauce creates a complex flavor profile that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it a wholesome meal for the whole family.

What’s in the Bowl

This Pad Thai recipe features a variety of ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 7 oz rice noodles: The star of the dish, these chewy noodles soak up all the delicious sauces.
• 2 tbsp tamarind puree: Adds a unique tanginess that is essential to authentic Pad Thai.
• 3 tbsp brown sugar: Balances the flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• 3 tbsp fish sauce: Contributes depth and umami to the dish.
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Enhances the savory profile.
• 5 tbsp vegetable oil: For frying and ensuring that everything cooks evenly.
• 3 garlic cloves: Minced for that aromatic kick.
• 1 onion sliced: Adds sweetness and texture.
• 7 oz chicken breast minced: Provides protein and tenderness.
• 3 eggs slightly whisked: For a rich and creamy texture.
• 2 cups bean sprouts: Fresh crunchiness to contrast the soft noodles.
• 1 cup tofu cut into small cubes: Adds additional protein and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 cup green onions sliced: For a fresh, vibrant finish.
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts chopped: A crunchy topping that elevates the dish.
• Lime wedges: To squeeze over your bowl for a burst of freshness.
• Ground chili (optional): For those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Extra bean sprouts for serving: For added texture and freshness.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment:

• Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying everything together.
• Pot for boiling noodles: Needed to prepare the rice noodles before adding them to the skillet.
• Measuring spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: To keep things moving in the skillet.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping all your fresh ingredients.

The Method for Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu

Now that you have all your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu.

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles

Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the 7 oz of rice noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the tamarind puree, brown sugar, fish sauce, and oyster sauce. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce will be the magic that brings all the flavors together.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Tofu

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 4-5 minutes. Add the cubed tofu and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the tofu to brown slightly.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Push the chicken and tofu to one side of the skillet and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.

Step 5: Whisk in Eggs

Pour the slightly whisked eggs into the skillet, scrambling them until just set. Mix everything together, ensuring the eggs are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Add the cooked rice noodles and the prepared sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce and combined with the chicken, tofu, and vegetables.

Step 7: Add Final Touches

Fold in the bean sprouts and green onions last, allowing them to wilt slightly from the heat. Remove from heat and prepare to serve.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Dish out your Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu onto plates, topping each serving with a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts, extra bean sprouts, and lime wedges on the side. Add ground chili if you prefer a spicy kick.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you need to make this dish dairy-free or gluten-free, consider these substitutions:

• Fish sauce: Look for gluten-free fish sauce options available in most grocery stores.
• Oyster sauce: Use a mushroom-based sauce as a vegetarian alternative.
• Rice noodles: Most rice noodles are gluten-free, but always check the package.
• Brown sugar: Ensure it’s free from any additives that might contain gluten.

Pro Perspective

Creating the perfect Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu is all about timing and balance:

• Don’t overcook the noodles; they should have a slight bite to them.
• Feel free to customize the proteins and veggies based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a little soy sauce or sesame oil before cooking.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra layer of freshness.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store them properly:

Store any leftover Pad Thai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or lime juice to prevent the noodles from drying out. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, it can still be a quick and tasty meal when reheated.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make Pad Thai vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and replace the fish sauce and oyster sauce with vegetarian alternatives, such as soy sauce and mushroom sauce. Tofu can be your main protein source.

What can I substitute for tamarind puree?

If you don’t have tamarind puree, you can mix equal parts of lime juice and brown sugar as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I make Pad Thai spicier?

Add more ground chili or fresh sliced chili peppers to your dish during cooking, or serve with chili flakes on the side for individual spice levels.

Can I freeze Pad Thai?

While it’s not recommended to freeze Pad Thai because the noodles can become mushy, you can freeze the protein and sauce separately. Just make sure to cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to eat!

If you loved making Pad Thai With Chicken & Tofu, here are some other recipes you might enjoy:

Hungry for More?

Stay tuned for more delicious recipes that will take you on a culinary journey around the world. From comforting classics to innovative dishes, there’s always something new to explore in the kitchen. Happy cooking!