Name: Mouthwatering Pad See Ew: A Homemade Thai Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons regular soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce; 1 teaspoon oil (vegetable or sesame oil); 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 8 ounces wide rice noodles; 1 pound chicken thighs (boneless and skinless); 2 cups vegetables (e.g., broccoli or bell peppers); 2 large eggs (scrambled)

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When the bustling aroma of street food wafted through the air during my recent trip to Thailand, I found myself drawn to a little stall where the enticing flavors of Pad See Ew danced in front of my eyes. This classic Thai dish, with its perfectly stir-fried wide rice noodles, crispy vegetables, and tender chicken, immediately transported me back to that vibrant moment. It’s surprising how simple ingredients can come together to create such a flavor-packed experience at home.

With this chicken marinade, you can easily unlock the secret to that restaurant-quality taste, making it perfect for those nights when you crave something satisfying yet wholesome. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to personalize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Best of all, it’s a delightful way to break away from mundane meal routines while still keeping things simple. Let’s dive into how you can recreate that magical street-side experience right in your own kitchen!

Why is Pad See Ew a Must-Try?

Incredible flavor: The harmony of soy sauce and fresh ingredients creates a taste explosion you’ll love.
Quick preparation: With just a few minutes of marinating, you’re on your way to a delicious meal.
Endless customization: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies to make it your own.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, perfect for gatherings.
Wholesome satisfaction: Enjoy the homemade goodness that elevates your dinner game without the fast-food guilt.
Let this marinade be your secret weapon by also pairing it with my delectable Chicken Stir-Fry recipe!

Essential Pad See Ew Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade
• Regular soy sauce – adds a savory base that’s essential for authentic flavor.
• Dark soy sauce – brings depth and a slight sweetness to balance the dish.
• Oil – use vegetable or sesame oil for an added richness to the marinade.
• Cornstarch – helps to create a velvety coating on the chicken, ensuring it stays tender.

For the Pad See Ew
• Wide rice noodles – the star of the dish; these chewy noodles soak up all the delicious flavors!
• Chicken thighs – boneless and skinless, they stay juicy and absorb the marinade beautifully.
• Vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers) – feel free to mix your favorites to add color and crunch.
• Eggs – a scrambled egg enhances the dish with extra protein and texture.

With this glorious combination of ingredients, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of Pad See Ew at home!

How to Make Pad See Ew

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of regular soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dark soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of oil, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch until well combined. This marinade will provide a rich flavor and tender texture to the chicken.
Marinate the Chicken: Add your chopped chicken thighs to the marinade and stir well to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature for maximum flavor absorption.
Cook the Noodles: While the chicken marinates, cook wide rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, keeping them a little chewy to soak up all that delicious marinade when cooked.
Stir-Fry the Chicken: In a hot pan or wok over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil and toss in the marinated chicken. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, into the pan, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are just tender.
Combine Everything: Finally, add the cooked noodles to the pan, stirring everything together, and cook for another 2 minutes to ensure the noodles are well-coated with the marinade and heated through.

Optional: Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Pad See Ew preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply combine the soy sauces, oil, and cornstarch, coat the chicken, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can pre-cook the wide rice noodles and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days; just drizzle a little oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, stir-fry the marinated chicken and vegetables, add the pre-cooked noodles, and sauté everything until hot. This method guarantees your Pad See Ew will be just as delicious and ready in no time!

Variations & Substitutions for Pad See Ew

Feel free to get creative and make this dish truly your own; the possibilities are as delicious as they are diverse!

Gluten-Free: Swap regular soy sauce for tamari to keep it gluten-free without losing flavor.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different texture and taste experience.
Veggie Boost: Add extra veggies like snap peas or carrots for vibrant color and crunch.
Spice It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a tantalizing kick of heat.
Sesame Flavor: Drizzle a bit of toasted sesame oil during cooking for an added depth of flavor.
Sweet Essence: Mix in a touch of honey or brown sugar to balance the savory notes with sweetness.
Noodle Alternatives: Try using egg noodles or even zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
Creamy Touch: Top with a dollop of peanut sauce to bring a creamy richness that complements the dish beautifully.

Each variation gives you a chance to explore and enjoy your own unique twist on this classic delight!

What to Serve with Pad See Ew?

Nothing completes this flavorful dish quite like the perfect accompaniments, enhancing your dining experience and elevating a simple meal into a feast.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights add texture and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the tender noodles.
Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side with a tangy dressing will balance the savory elements of Pad See Ew, making each bite a joy.
Garlic Fried Rice: With its aromatic taste, this dish can soak up the rich flavors of the marinade, giving you a hearty meal.
Stir-Fried Broccoli: The crunchy greens add color and nutrients while echoing the vegetable goodness in the Pad See Ew.
Coconut Milk Soup: Serve a light, fragrant soup to cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Thai Iced Tea: This sweet and creamy drink is a delightful addition, offering a contrast to the savory noodles and balancing the meal.

Sharing a meal flavored with the heart of Thai cuisine is not just about taste—it’s about connecting, savoring, and experiencing a global culinary adventure together!

How to Store and Freeze Pad See Ew

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for best results.

Freezer: If you have extra Pad See Ew, freeze it in portions for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a pan with a splash of water to revive the noodles.

Room Temperature: For best taste and quality, avoid leaving out cooked Pad See Ew at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Reheating: When reheating, adding a little soy sauce or broth can help retain moisture and flavor, ensuring a delicious meal every time.

Expert Tips for Pad See Ew

• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes is essential for infusing those rich flavors into your Pad See Ew.

• Choose the Right Noodles: Always opt for wide rice noodles for that authentic chewy texture; they soak up the marinade beautifully.

• Hot and Fast Cooking: Stir-fry the chicken over high heat to achieve that enticing smokey flavor, ensuring it doesn’t overcook and dry out.

• Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite vegetables. Just make sure to add them at the right time so they stay crisp.

• Garnish for a Kick: Elevate your dish by garnishing with lime wedges or fresh herbs. This adds brightness and enhances the overall Pad See Ew experience!

Pad See Ew Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right soy sauce?
Absolutely! For an authentic Pad See Ew, aim for a quality regular soy sauce as your base, which adds essential umami. Dark soy sauce contributes depth and color, so don’t skip it. Look for brands with a good balance of saltiness and sweetness, typically found in Asian grocery stores.

What are the best vegetables to add?
Very! While classic Pad See Ew often includes broccoli and bell peppers, you can truly customize it to your liking. Consider adding snap peas, carrots, or even bok choy for a nutritious twist. Just make sure to stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes until they’re tender yet still crisp.

How should I store leftovers?
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave to ensure they don’t become rubbery. Adding a bit of water or soy sauce can help keep everything moist and flavorful.

Can I freeze Pad See Ew?
Absolutely! If you have extra, let it cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a pan, adding a splash of broth or soy sauce to revive the dish.

What should I do if my noodles are sticky?
Ah, this is a common issue! If your noodles are sticky, make sure to rinse them under cold water right after boiling to remove excess starch. It’s also essential to avoid overcooking them; they should be al dente. If they stick post-cooking, incorporating a small amount of oil can help separate them.

Can my pets eat Pad See Ew?
Very! While the ingredients in Pad See Ew aren’t toxic to pets, it’s important to note that soy sauce is high in sodium, which isn’t great for animals. If you want to share, consider giving them plain, unseasoned chicken with a small amount of cooked vegetables instead!