If you’re craving a weeknight meal that delivers big on flavor without spending hours in the kitchen, this 30 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Pad Thai Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, saucy stir-fry that combines tender ground chicken, tender rice noodles, and the rich, buttery goodness of garlic-infused seasoning. Every bite bursts with a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and a hint of spice, wrapped up in a dish you can throw together in just half an hour. Whether you’re a Pad Thai newbie or a seasoned fan, this recipe makes fuss-free cooking deliciously achievable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward list of ingredients—all easy to find, each one playing a vital role in shaping the texture, aroma, and flavor layers of the dish. From the silky rice noodles soaking up the sauce to the crisp freshness of mung bean sprouts, every element has its moment.
- 8 oz Pad Thai/wide rice noodles: These noodles soak up the sauce perfectly and deliver that authentic Pad Thai texture.
- 3 tbsp Tamari or soy sauce: Adds salty umami depth, balancing the sweet and tangy flavors beautifully.
- 2 tbsp Real maple syrup: Sweetens naturally, giving the dish a subtle warmth without overpowering.
- 1 tbsp Fish sauce: Essential for authentic savory notes, it brings that unmistakable Thai character.
- 1 tbsp Rice vinegar: Lends brightness and subtle acidity to cut through the richness.
- 1 tsp Black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- 1 tsp Chili flakes: Offers a kick of spice—adjust to taste!
- 2 tbsp Sesame oil (or olive oil): Infuses the dish with a toasty aroma and smooth mouthfeel.
- 1 lb Ground chicken: Keeps the dish light but protein-packed, absorbing all the flavors as it cooks.
- 1 medium Red bell pepper: Provides crunch and a pop of vibrant color.
- 2 tbsp Salted butter: Adds richness and that melt-in-your-mouth garlic-butter element.
- 1 medium Shallot: Delivers subtle sweetness and complexity when sautéed.
- 3 cloves Garlic: The star flavor that brings this recipe its aromatic punch.
- 2 large Eggs: Adds silkiness and helps bind the dish together.
- 1 cup Mung bean sprouts: Adds freshness and crunch for perfect contrast.
- 1/4 cup Chopped cilantro or Thai basil: Brings herbaceous, bright notes that brighten the dish.
- 2 stalks Green onions: Adds mild oniony freshness as a final flourish.
- 1/4 cup Roasted peanuts: Offers nutty crunch that completes the authentic experience.
How to Make 30 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Pad Thai Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by soaking or cooking the Pad Thai noodles according to package instructions until they’re tender but still slightly firm. This step is key since perfectly cooked noodles are the canvas for your delicious sauce and toppings.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the tamari, maple syrup, fish sauce, rice vinegar, black pepper, and chili flakes. This sauce is where all the magic happens, balancing sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy flavors that make Pad Thai so irresistible.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics and Chicken
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced shallot and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden. Then add the ground chicken, breaking it up with your spatula. Cook until it’s fully browned and slightly crispy in parts for a wonderful texture contrast.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Butter
Toss in the diced red bell pepper and let it soften just a bit. Stir in the butter, allowing it to melt and infuse the mixture with its luscious, garlicky richness that sets this dish apart from other Pad Thai recipes.
Step 5: Incorporate Noodles and Sauce
Add the drained noodles to the skillet along with the sauce mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, letting every noodle get coated in that savory, buttery goodness.
Step 6: Cook the Eggs
Push the noodle mixture to one side of the pan and crack the eggs into the empty space. Scramble them lightly and let them cook through before folding them gently into the noodles, adding a silky, binding texture.
Step 7: Finish with Freshness
Finally, toss in the mung bean sprouts, chopped herbs, and green onions. Stir briefly to combine and warm through, preserving their fresh crunch and vibrant color.
How to Serve 30 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Pad Thai Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touch makes all the difference! Sprinkle roasted peanuts over the top for a delightful crunch and nutty contrast. A few extra green onion slices or fresh cilantro leaves add an inviting pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp cucumber salad or simple steamed greens tossed with a zingy chili-lime dressing, enhancing the meal without overshadowing the Pad Thai.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Pad Thai inside fresh lettuce cups or cabbage leaves. Or plate it with bright edible flowers and lime wedges to elevate the experience when entertaining—an eye-catching statement worthy of your quick-cooked masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Pad Thai in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an excellent next-day lunch option.
Freezing
If you want to store it longer, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to a month. Keep in mind that the texture of the noodles might change slightly, but the bold flavors will remain comforting and satisfying.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the noodles’ softness and prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but if you do, cover the container to trap steam.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! You can finely dice or thinly slice chicken breast, but ground chicken keeps the dish more cohesive and easier to cook quickly. If using breast, adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked through but remains tender.
Is fish sauce necessary in this recipe?
Fish sauce adds a distinct umami depth that is traditional in Pad Thai. If you can’t use it, tamari or soy sauce alone will work, though the flavor won’t be quite as complex.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap ground chicken for tofu or a mix of sautéed mushrooms, and replace fish sauce with a vegetarian alternative or extra tamari. The garlic butter and sauce layers still deliver plenty of flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The chili flakes provide a moderate warmth that can be dialed down or up to suit your taste. Feel free to omit or add more chili flakes as you like—this recipe is very flexible!
What type of noodles work best?
Wide rice noodles or Pad Thai-specific noodles are ideal because they soak up the sauce perfectly without becoming mushy. Avoid instant ramen or wheat pasta as the textures and flavors won’t be quite right.
Final Thoughts
This 30 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Pad Thai Recipe combines the best of quick cooking and vibrant flavors, making it an absolute winner for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to meals—simple, satisfying, and delicious enough to share over and over.
Print
30 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken Pad Thai Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
A quick and flavorful 30-minute Garlic Butter Chicken Pad Thai recipe that combines tender ground chicken, wide rice noodles, and a savory-sweet sauce made with tamari, maple syrup, and fish sauce. Enhanced with fresh bell pepper, garlic, shallots, eggs, mung bean sprouts, and topped with crunchy roasted peanuts and fresh herbs, this dish brings a classic Thai favorite to your dinner table fast and easy.
Ingredients
Sauce and Seasonings
- 3 tbsp Tamari or soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Real maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Fish sauce
- 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Chili flakes
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pad Thai/wide rice noodles
- 2 tbsp Sesame oil (or olive oil)
- 1 lb Ground chicken
- 1 medium Red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp Salted butter
- 1 medium Shallot, finely chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 large Eggs
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup Mung bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup Chopped cilantro or Thai basil
- 2 stalks Green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup Roasted peanuts, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Noodles: Begin by soaking or cooking the 8 oz Pad Thai or wide rice noodles according to package instructions until tender, then drain and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp tamari or soy sauce, 2 tbsp real maple syrup, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp chili flakes. Stir well to create a balanced savory, sweet, spicy sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp sesame oil (or olive oil) in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add finely chopped shallot and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Add 1 lb ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Bell Pepper and Butter: Stir in the thinly sliced red bell pepper and 2 tbsp salted butter, cooking until the pepper softens slightly and butter melts, coating the mixture evenly.
- Scramble Eggs: Push the chicken mixture to one side of the pan, crack 2 large eggs onto the empty side, and scramble until just set. Then mix the eggs evenly into the chicken and vegetables.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the prepared noodles into the skillet and pour in the sauce mixture. Toss everything together gently to coat the noodles and distribute ingredients evenly while heating through for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Stir in 1 cup mung bean sprouts, chopped cilantro or Thai basil, and sliced green onions. Cook for an additional minute to slightly soften the sprouts and bring freshness to the dish.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the Garlic Butter Chicken Pad Thai to serving plates and sprinkle with 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts for added crunch. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Instead of ground chicken, you can use ground turkey or firm tofu for a variation.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level to make it milder or more spicy.
- Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes if you don’t want to boil them.
- For gluten-free option, ensure you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Use fresh herbs like Thai basil for authentic flavor or substitute with extra cilantro.
