Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta
If you’re searching for a dish that combines comforting pasta with the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, look no further than Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings for something hearty and delicious but also packs a punch with its rich, creamy peanut sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why It’s My Go-To
Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta is my go-to recipe for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious peanut sauce creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also allows for creativity in the kitchen.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make this delicious Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 carrots, julienne sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup napa cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup red cabbage, chopped
- 2/3 cup dry roasted peanuts
- 6 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce (or more to taste)
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following equipment:
- Large pot – for boiling the spaghetti noodles.
- Wok or large skillet – for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping vegetables and slicing chicken.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the ingredients.
Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta, Made Easy
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta.
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Sauté the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the julienne sliced carrots, chopped red bell pepper, napa cabbage, and red cabbage. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are tender yet still crisp.
Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, creamy peanut butter, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha hot sauce. Adjust the level of Sriracha based on your preferred spice level. This sauce is what makes the dish shine, so taste and tweak as necessary!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles and toss everything together until well combined. Finally, add the sliced chicken and gently mix to incorporate.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta in bowls and top with chopped green onions, dry roasted peanuts, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and crunch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Fresh Takes Through the Year
One of the best parts about Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta is its versatility. Here are some ideas to switch things up with the seasons:
- In the spring, add fresh asparagus and snap peas for a vibrant touch.
- During summer, toss in some zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
- In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash for a sweet twist.
- In winter, include broccoli and bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Don’t Do This
To ensure the best results with your Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t overcook the noodles; they should remain al dente for the best texture.
- Be cautious with the amount of Sriracha; you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Avoid using low-quality peanut butter, as this can affect the flavor and creaminess of the sauce.
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs; they add a vital layer of flavor to the dish.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftovers of your Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta, here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Add a splash of water or a drizzle of sesame oil when reheating to prevent dryness.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While spaghetti noodles work wonderfully, you can use other types like rice noodles, whole wheat pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of spice depends on how much Sriracha you add. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste preferences.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, you can also serve it alongside Honey Garlic Chicken.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love one-pan meals, consider these options for more delicious recipes:
- Saucy Peanut Noodles With Chicken
- Stir-fried rice with vegetables and protein of your choice.
- One-pan creamy garlic pasta with spinach.
- Sheet pan fajitas for a quick and easy dinner.
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to whip up your own batch of Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta. With its delightful combination of flavors, textures, and colors, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious meal to savor. Happy cooking!
Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
- In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Sauté the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the julienne sliced carrots, chopped red bell pepper, napa cabbage, and red cabbage. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are tender yet still crisp.
- While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, creamy peanut butter, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha hot sauce. Adjust the level of Sriracha based on your preferred spice level.
- Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles and toss everything together until well combined. Finally, add the sliced chicken and gently mix to incorporate.
- Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from heat. Serve your Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta in bowls and top with chopped green onions, dry roasted peanuts, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and crunch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes
- For a lighter version, consider using zucchini noodles instead of spaghetti.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Sriracha in the sauce.
