Savory Pad See Ew with Chicken and Broccoli Delight

In the vibrant world of Thai cuisine, few dishes capture the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors quite like Pad See Ew. This beloved street food classic, with its wide rice noodles and caramelized soy sauce, is an everyday comfort that delights the senses. Today, we dive into a special twist: Savory Pad See Ew with Chicken and Broccoli Delight. Combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli florets, and the unmistakable char of stir-fried noodles, this dish transforms humble ingredients into a harmonious feast. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious home cook, prepare to discover how simple pantry staples can come together to create a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Savory Pad See Ew with chicken and Broccoli Delight is a beloved Thai street food classic that perfectly marries bold, smoky flavors with tender chicken and crisp broccoli, all enveloped in chewy, wok-tossed noodles. This dish’s alluring balance comes from the harmony of sweet, salty, and umami notes, uplifted by the subtle char that unlocks every aromatic layer. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or an adventurous beginner, this recipe will empower you to recreate that authentic Pad See Ew experience right in your kitchen.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 10 minutes
• Total: 25 minutes

Yield

Serves 4 generous portions

Difficulty Level

Medium – ideal for home cooks ready to master precise timing and wok techniques

Ingredients

• 8 oz fresh broad rice noodles (flat, about 1-inch wide)
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets, washed and trimmed
• 3 tablespoons dark soy sauce (for depth and color)
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (for saltiness)
• 1 ½ tablespoons oyster sauce (for savory richness)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the sauce)
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (neutral oil like canola or peanut)
• Pinch of white pepper
• Optional: sliced fresh chili for heat

instructions

1. Prepare the noodles: If using fresh broad rice noodles, gently separate them to avoid breaking. If dried, soak in warm water for about 30 minutes until pliable but not mushy. Drain well and set aside.
2. mix your sauce: In a small bowl, combine the dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This harmonious blend is the heart of your dish’s savory notes.
3. Heat your wok: Place your wok or large skillet over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. When the oil shimmers,add the minced garlic.Stir-fry until fragrant, about 20 seconds-don’t let it burn.
4. Cook the chicken: Add sliced chicken to the wok and stir-fry until half cooked and starting to turn golden, about 3 minutes. Push chicken to one side.
5. Cook the eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the wok. Let it cook undisturbed for a few seconds, then scramble gently until just set.
6. Add the broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in with the chicken and eggs.stir-fry together for about 2 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant green yet still crunchy.
7. Toss in noodles and sauce: Add the noodles and pour the sauce evenly over them. using tongs or chopsticks, gently but quickly toss everything together, allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce. Stir frequently to achieve a light smoky char-this is the signature flavor of Pad See Ew.
8. Adjust texture and seasoning: If noodles stick, splash a teaspoon of water or more oil to loosen. Finish with a pinch of white pepper and optional fresh chili slices for added kick.
9. Serve hot: Transfer immediately to warm plates to enjoy the full burst of flavors and textures.

Chef’s Notes & Tips for Success

• Noodle texture: Achieving the ideal chewy yet tender texture is key. Avoid over-soaking or over-stirring the noodles, which can cause them to break down.
• Sauce balance: Taste the sauce before adding to noodles. Adjust sweetness or saltiness gently, keeping in mind the oyster sauce’s subtle umami depth.
• Broccoli substitution: You can swap broccoli with Chinese broccoli (gai lan) for a more authentic, slightly bitter contrast.
• Chicken alternatives: Try thinly sliced pork or tofu cubes for variation.
• Make-ahead: Prep ingredients ahead but cook noodles fresh to preserve texture and prevent stickiness.
• Wok tips: Use a well-seasoned wok or a large non-stick skillet with high heat for the best sear.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Pad See Ew Experience

Present this savory feast garnished with a wedge of lime to add a fresh, zesty twist that cuts through the sweetness. Scatter toasted sesame seeds or a handful of crushed roasted peanuts on top for extra crunch. Fresh coriander or thai basil leaves impart aromatic brightness. For a complete meal, pair with a simple cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar and chili flakes, balancing heat and refreshment.

Enjoy your Pad See Ew with a chilled glass of jasmine tea or lightly sparkling water infused with a slice of lemon for a perfectly rounded dining experience.

For more delicious Asian noodle recipes, don’t miss our Thai Drunken Noodles Spicy Delight post. For insights on soy sauce varieties and their culinary roles, visit the Serious Eats soy sauce guide.

Q&A

Q&A: Unveiling the Flavors of Savory Pad See Ew with Chicken and Broccoli Delight

Q1: What is Pad See Ew, and why is it so beloved?
A1: Pad See Ew is a classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish known for its smoky char flavor and harmonious balance of savory and slightly sweet notes. It’s beloved for its tender flat rice noodles, crisp vegetables, and rich sauce that creates comfort in every bite.

Q2: How does chicken enhance the Pad See Ew experience?
A2: Chicken lends a mild, juicy protein punch that absorbs the dish’s flavorful sauce beautifully. Its tender texture pairs perfectly with the chewy noodles and crunchy broccoli,creating a multidimensional mouthfeel that’s both satisfying and nourishing.Q3: Why choose broccoli as the vegetable partner in this dish?
A3: Broccoli adds a fresh, vibrant crunch and a subtle earthiness that complements the caramelized noodles. Its shining green florets not only bring color but also boost the dish’s nutritional profile, making this Pad see Ew both delightful and wholesome.

Q4: What makes the sauce in Pad See Ew distinctive?
A4: The sauce is a luscious blend of dark soy sauce for depth, light soy sauce for balance, oyster sauce for umami richness, and a hint of sweetness. When these ingredients hit the hot wok, they caramelize the noodles, creating that signature slightly charred, addictive flavor.

Q5: Can the dish be customized for different tastes?
A5: Absolutely! Pad See Ew is incredibly versatile. You can swap chicken for beef, pork, tofu, or shrimp. For spice lovers,add fresh chili or chili flakes. Vegetarians can boost the vegetable ratio with mushrooms or bok choy. The key is maintaining the right balance of flavors and textures.

Q6: What are some tips for cooking the perfect Pad See Ew at home?
A6: Use fresh wide rice noodles, preferably the kind meant for stir-frying. Don’t overcrowd your pan; a hot wok with fast, high-heat cooking ensures that signature smoky char. Add sauce gradually and taste as you go. Lastly, toss in the chicken and broccoli just right-cooked but still crisp and tender.

Q7: How can Pad See Ew with Chicken and Broccoli Delight fit into a healthy diet?
A7: This dish balances lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and moderate carbs. By controlling the amount of oil and sugar in the sauce, it can be a wholesome meal that satisfies cravings without compromising nutrition-a delicious way to nourish body and soul.

Q8: What makes Pad See Ew a great meal for both beginners and seasoned cooks?
A8: The recipe’s simplicity, combined with its satisfying layers of flavor, makes it approachable for novices and rewarding for food enthusiasts. It teaches essential stir-fry techniques and flavor-building skills, while offering endless room for creative tweaks.

dive into the world of savory magic with this Pad See Ew masterpiece-it’s more then just noodles; it’s a festivity of textures, colors, and tastes that dance on your palate.

to sum up

As the fragrant aroma of this Savory Pad See Ew with Chicken and Broccoli Delight lingers in your kitchen, you’ve not only crafted a dish-it’s a culinary experience that bridges the vibrant streets of Thailand with the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or an remarkable yet approachable meal to share, this recipe offers a perfect balance of smoky wok-charred noodles, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli. Dive in, savor each bite, and let this flavorful fusion become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. After all, great meals aren’t just about ingredients-they’re about bringing joy to your table, one stir-fry at a time.