Stir-Fried Soy Sauce Noodles with Chicken (Pad See Ew Gai) – Authentic Thai Stir-Fried Noodle Recipe

Many home cooks face difficulty achieving the authentic flavor of Stir-Fried Soy Sauce Noodles with Chicken (Pad See Ew Gai), particularly balancing the savory soy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly stir-fried noodles. Achieving restaurant-quality texture and taste at home requires careful ingredient selection and precise cooking techniques. This guide provides a complete solution, helping anyone master Pad See Ew Gai with step-by-step instructions, tips on ingredient preparation, and methods to replicate authentic Thai flavors right in your kitchen.

Understanding Stir-Fried Soy Sauce Noodles with Chicken (Pad See Ew Gai)

Pad See Ew Gai is one of Thailand’s most beloved noodle dishes, known for its wide rice noodles stir-fried with succulent chicken, Chinese broccoli, and savory soy sauce. It is a comfort food widely served in Thai street food stalls, local restaurants, and even home kitchens. The dish is characterized by its slightly sweet, smoky flavor with tender noodles and crisp vegetables, creating a satisfying combination of textures. This recipe highlights the perfect balance between salty, sweet, and umami flavors, making it a must-try for lovers of Thai cuisine.

Ingredients for Authentic Pad See Ew Gai

Gather the following fresh ingredients to make classic Pad See Ew Gai:

• 200 grams wide rice noodles (fresh or dried, soaked until soft)
• 200 grams chicken breast or thigh, sliced thinly
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan), chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• Optional: fried egg or scrambled egg for topping
• Lime wedges for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Method for Pad See Ew Gai

Follow these instructions to recreate authentic Stir-Fried Soy Sauce Noodles with Chicken:

1. Prepare the noodles by soaking them in warm water until pliable but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add sliced chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned.
4. Add Chinese broccoli and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until tender but still crisp.
5. Add soaked noodles to the wok. Toss together with chicken and vegetables.
6. Mix in light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Stir-fry quickly to ensure noodles are evenly coated.
7. Optional: add a fried or scrambled egg to the dish, folding it into the noodles.
8. Serve hot with lime wedges and, if desired, additional soy sauce or chili for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Pad See Ew Gai at Home

Enhance the dish using these expert tips:

• Use wide rice noodles for the authentic texture of Pad See Ew.
• Cook ingredients quickly on high heat to retain crisp vegetables and tender chicken.
• Balance dark and light soy sauce to achieve the right color and savory-sweet taste.
• Prepare all ingredients before stir-frying, as the process is fast.
• Adjust sugar and soy sauce to suit personal taste for sweetness and saltiness.

Health Benefits of Stir-Fried Soy Sauce Noodles with Chicken

This popular Thai stir-fried dish offers nutritional advantages:

• Chicken provides high-quality protein, supporting muscle and tissue health.
• Chinese broccoli adds vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber for digestion.
• Using moderate oil and fresh ingredients reduces calories compared to restaurant versions.
• Rice noodles offer easily digestible carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Homemade preparation allows control over sodium and sugar levels, making the dish healthier.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pad See Ew Gai

Can I make Pad See Ew Gai vegetarian?

Yes, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable-based sauces to create a vegetarian version.

How do I prevent noodles from sticking?

Soak noodles until pliable, stir-fry quickly on high heat, and toss them evenly with the sauces.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While sauces and prep can be done ahead, stir-fry noodles and chicken just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Where to Experience Authentic Pad See Ew Gai

This dish is commonly served at Thai street food stalls, local restaurants, and international Thai eateries. For additional guidance on cooking authentic Thai stir-fried noodles, refer to this detailed Pad See Ew recipe guide.

Conclusion: Mastering Stir-Fried Soy Sauce Noodles with Chicken at Home

Stir-Fried Soy Sauce Noodles with Chicken (Pad See Ew Gai) is a delicious and comforting Thai noodle dish. With tender chicken, crisp Chinese broccoli, and perfectly stir-fried wide rice noodles, it delivers authentic flavor and texture. By following the ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips, anyone can recreate this iconic Thai street food at home. Enjoy the balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors while gaining nutritional benefits, making Pad See Ew Gai a perfect meal for family dinners or casual gatherings.