Air Fryer Chicken Pad Thai: A 30-Minute Healthy Thai Recipe

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Pad Thai
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken breast, thinly sliced; 8 oz Rice noodles; 1 Egg, lightly beaten; 1 cup Bean sprouts; 1/4 cup Green onions, chopped; 2 tbsp Peanut oil (or any high smoke point oil); 1/4 cup Crushed peanuts for garnish; 1 Lime, cut into wedges; 3 tbsp Tamarind paste; 3 tbsp Fish sauce; 1 tbsp Soy sauce; 2 tbsp Brown sugar; 1/2 tsp Chili flakes (adjust to taste); Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for a different protein source.; Noodles: Can’t find rice noodles? Use any flat noodle as an alternative; just be mindful of cooking times.; Allergies: For a nut-free version, omit peanuts and use sunflower seeds for that crunch.

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The air fryer chicken Pad Thai recipe brings all the flavor you love without much hard work. Just get your ingredients ready, cook them at 375°F for around 15 minutes, and that’s it. It’s truly as simple as preparing your mix, setting the timer, and enjoying the flavors once it’s done. This is hands-down the easiest way to satisfy your Pad Thai cravings at home.

The air fryer lends itself perfectly to creating a quick Thai dinner that’s both satisfying and convenient. By choosing to make this dish at home, you gain control over the ingredients, ensuring freshness and the ability to customize to your taste. Opting for a healthy Pad Thai recipe made in the air fryer means enjoying your favorite flavors with fewer calories and less oil.

❤️ Why You’ll Air Fryer for Chicken Pad Thai?

Healthier option: Air frying reduces the need for oil, cutting down on fat without compromising the dish’s signature texture and taste.
Less oil: The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, crisping it up with minimal oil. This makes for a lighter version of Pad Thai.
Quick preparation: Unlike traditional methods that may require more time and attention, the air fryer cooks food faster due to its efficient heat distribution.
Benefits of cooking Pad Thai in an air fryer include not just health and speed, but also the ease of cleanup afterward, making it a hassle-free cooking method.
Air fryer convenience lies in its ability to cook ingredients evenly, offering a consistent texture and flavor throughout the dish.
Efficient cooking methods: The air fryer excels in making meals quickly, an advantage on busy nights when time is of the essence.

These benefits highlight why an air fryer is a great tool for preparing air fryer chicken Pad Thai, offering a blend of convenience, health, and taste.

See next: Air Fryer Seafood Paella

Essential Ingredients and Substitutes

1 lb Chicken breast, thinly sliced
8 oz Rice noodles
1 Egg, lightly beaten
1 cup Bean sprouts
1/4 cup Green onions, chopped
2 tbsp Peanut oil (or any high smoke point oil)
1/4 cup Crushed peanuts for garnish
1 Lime, cut into wedges

Sauce:

3 tbsp Tamarind paste
3 tbsp Fish sauce
1 tbsp Soy sauce
2 tbsp Brown sugar
1/2 tsp Chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Substitutes:

Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for a different protein source.
Noodles: Can’t find rice noodles? Use any flat noodle as an alternative; just be mindful of cooking times.
Allergies: For a nut-free version, omit peanuts and use sunflower seeds for that crunch.

Ingredients for air fryer chicken Pad Thai on kitchen counter

Equipment Required

For this recipe, I used the Philips Air fryer XXL, known for its spacious basket and even cooking capabilities. Alongside the air fryer, you’ll need a few kitchen basics:

A wok or oven-safe skillet for sautéing ingredients before combining them in the air fryer.
Mixing bowls for preparing the sauce and tossing the noodles.
Measuring spoons and cups to accurately measure out sauce ingredients and ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

This equipment, coupled with the air fryer, makes the cooking process smooth and straightforward, allowing for an enjoyable cooking experience.

♨️ How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Pad Thai

Prep the noodles: Soak rice noodles in hot water for about 5-8 minutes until they’re soft but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Set this aside for later.

Preparing homemade Pad Thai sauce in a mixing bowl

Cook the chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Toss the sliced chicken with a tablespoon of peanut oil and a pinch of salt. Spread it in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Cooking chicken in air fryer for Pad Thai

Sauté add-ins: While the chicken cooks, heat a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the remaining oil and the beaten egg. Scramble the egg and then push it to the side of the skillet. Add the pre-soaked noodles and half of the prepared sauce. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, mixing well with the egg.

Combine: Once the chicken is cooked, add it to the skillet with the noodles. Add the rest of the sauce, bean sprouts, and green onions. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the ingredients are well combined and heated through.

cooking cooking chicken Pad Thai with noodles

Garnish and serve: Transfer the cooked Pad Thai to a serving dish. Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Essential Note: Pay close attention to the air fryer cooking times and temperature settings to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly but remains juicy. Cooking Thai noodles in a skillet after softening them ensures they soak up the flavorful sauce without becoming too soft.

FAQs about Air Fryer Chicken Pad Thai

Can I make Chicken Pad Thai in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Pad Thai in advance by cooking the noodles and sauce separately and storing them in the fridge. Combine and reheat when ready to serve, adding fresh garnishes to maintain flavor and texture.

Are there vegetarian options for Air Fryer Chicken Pad Thai?

Absolutely. Substitute chicken with tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version. Ensure tofu is pressed and slightly air-fried for texture before adding to the Pad Thai.

How can I adjust the spice level in my Chicken Pad Thai?

Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili flakes or fresh chilies in the sauce. Start with a small amount and add more gradually, tasting as you go to achieve your desired heat level.

What are the best air fryers for making Chicken Pad Thai?

The best air fryers for making Chicken Pad Thai have a large capacity and consistent heat distribution. Models like the Philips Air fryer XXL or the COSORI Turbo Blaze 6 Quart are excellent choices for evenly cooking ingredients.

Tips for the Best Result

Choosing the right ingredients and techniques can greatly enhance your air fryer chicken pad Thai. Here’s how:

Right type of noodles: Flat rice noodles are your best bet for authentic texture. Soak them just enough to soften but not fully cook, as they’ll finish cooking when mixed with the other ingredients.
Perfectly cooked chicken: Marinate your chicken slices in a simple mix of soy sauce and a little sugar before air frying. This not only seasons the meat but also helps to keep it moist. Ensure your air fryer is preheated for even cooking.

Spice level customization: The beauty of making your own Pad Thai is adjusting the heat to your preference. Start with a little chili and increase according to your taste. It’s all about flavor adjustments to suit your palate.
Fresh spices vs. homemade sauce: There’s a marked difference in using fresh spices and herbs compared to dried ones. They bring a vibrancy and depth of flavor that can’t be matched. Likewise, a homemade Pad Thai sauce surpasses bottled versions in freshness and the ability to tweak it to just how you like it. Whether it’s the tanginess from the tamarind or the heat from the chili, making it from scratch means you’re in control of the seasoning.

How and What to Serve: Serving Suggestions

Presentation and sides can turn your Pad Thai into a feast. Here are some ideas:

Garnishes: A generous sprinkle of crushed peanuts adds crunch, while lime wedges on the side let your guests add a zesty freshness to their dish. Don’t forget a handful of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Sides for guests: If you’re serving Pad Thai as part of a larger meal, consider sides that complement its flavors without overwhelming. A simple cucumber salad dressed with vinegar, sugar, and a touch of salt offers a refreshing counterpoint. For a more elaborate meal, spring rolls or satay skewers can add variety and cater to different tastes.

Remember, the key to great Pad Thai lies in balance and personalization. With these tips, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating an experience tailored to your taste.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

For storing leftovers in the fridge, place your Chicken Pad Thai in an airtight container. It can last up to three days. If you opt for freezing, spread it out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. This method prevents clumping, allowing for easier reheating.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. For the best taste and texture, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or broth to loosen the noodles and keep the dish moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the noodles mushy.

Final Thoughts

Making air fryer chicken pad Thai at home is not only a journey to a delicious meal but also a step towards a healthier lifestyle.

This healthy Thai recipe proves that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen for a tasty, quick pad Thai.

The air fryer ensures that the chicken is perfectly cooked, bringing out the best in this beloved dish.

I would like you to try this recipe. It’s a testament to how simple and rewarding cooking with an air fryer can be, making traditional favorites accessible on any weeknight.