Savory Pad Woon Sen: Quick Comfort in 25 Minutes

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Pad Woon Sen is a flavorful dish featuring chicken, Chinese broccoli, and glass noodles, perfect for a quick meal. This Thai glass noodle stir-fry not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a comforting experience in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re busy after work or planning a cozy dinner, Pad Woon Sen is the ideal solution. Its combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and chewy noodles makes it a hit with family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Pad Woon Sen

This Pad Woon Sen recipe offers several benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it suitable for a weeknight dinner. Second, it’s versatile—use any protein you prefer, including shrimp for a seafood twist or tofu for a vegetarian Pad Woon Sen. Third, the dish is gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs. Fourth, with its mix of ingredients, it’s packed with nutrients, offering a balanced meal. Moreover, it’s an easy dish to customize based on your spice tolerance, and finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring smiles at your dinner table. The authentic Thai flavors will transport you straight to Thailand!

Ingredients for Pad Woon Sen

Gather these items:

5.3 oz dry glass noodles
6 oz skinless boneless chicken thighs
2 teaspoon regular soy sauce
¼ teaspoon white pepper
3 cups Chinese broccoli
2 cloves garlic
2 large eggs
2 tablespoon regular soy sauce
2 teaspoon dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon white sugar
⅛ teaspoon white pepper
1 large red chili pepper
¼ cup white vinegar

How to Make Pad Woon Sen Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate the sliced chicken thighs with the soy sauce and white pepper. Allow to sit while preparing other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix stir fry sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and white pepper.
Step 3: Combine chopped red chili and white vinegar in another small bowl.
Step 4: Soak dry glass noodles in hot boiling water for 1-2 minutes until softened. Drain immediately.
Step 5: Rinse noodles under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch.
Step 6: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry garlic and marinated chicken until chicken is about 75% cooked, then push to one side.
Step 7: Scramble the beaten eggs in the same pan, moving to the side once fluffy.
Step 8: Add Chinese broccoli, drained noodles, and stir fry sauce to the pan. Toss together and cook until noodles are well coated and greens have softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 9: Remove from heat and mix in some chili vinegar to taste.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pad Woon Sen

Keep these in mind:

Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less chili pepper.
Use a different protein if desired, such as shrimp or tofu.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
For a richer flavor, let the chicken marinate longer.
Use high heat for stir-frying to get that perfect char and texture.

Best Ways to Serve Pad Woon Sen

Pad Woon Sen is best served hot from the pan. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with fresh spring rolls for a delightful combination. Another fantastic idea is to serve it with a side of Thai chili sauce or fresh lime wedges for an extra kick!

How to Store and Reheat Pad Woon Sen

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish can be reheated in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, ensuring it’s heated through without becoming mushy. It’s perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed as a quick lunch the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pad Woon Sen

What’s the secret to perfect Pad Woon Sen?

The secret lies in the marination and high heat cooking method. Proper marination enhances the chicken’s flavor, while stir-frying over high heat achieves that delightful texture in the noodles and veggies.

Can I make Pad Woon Sen ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. This makes it easier to stir-fry when you’re ready to eat, ensuring freshness in each bite.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pad Woon Sen?

Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be al dente. Also, ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, so you can maintain high heat during stir-frying.

Variations of Pad Woon Sen You Can Try

If you want to switch things up, consider trying a vegetarian Pad Woon Sen by replacing chicken with tofu or a medley of your favorite vegetables. You can also experiment with different sauces, like a spicy peanut sauce, to give it a unique twist. For a gluten-free version, ensure all sauces used are gluten-free!

For more delicious recipes, check out Irresistible Thai Red Curry Kabobs and Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder. If you’re interested in vegetarian options, you might enjoy Healthy Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken as well!