Pad Thai Casserole is a delicious and convenient twist on the classic Thai dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Combining the authentic flavors of Pad Thai with the ease of a casserole, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy sauce, it’s a complete meal in one dish. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this mouthwatering Pad Thai Casserole step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1.5 cups bean sprouts
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
- Cook Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken breast pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Add Vegetables: Add the bean sprouts, red bell pepper, and green onions to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- Mix in Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the lightly beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until they are fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables.
- Combine Chicken and Noodles: Add the cooked chicken and rice noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine well.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the noodle mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and slightly crispy on top.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts and cilantro over the top. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the casserole.
Cooking Notes
- Noodles: Ensure the rice noodles are cooked al dente before baking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Chicken: You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference, such as adding carrots, snap peas, or bok choy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Pad Thai Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, follow these modifications:
- Noodles: Substitute rice noodles with shirataki noodles or spiralized zucchini.
- Sauce: Use a low-carb Pad Thai sauce or make your own with sugar-free ingredients.
- Vegetables: Ensure the vegetables used are low-carb friendly.
Pad Thai Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the authentic flavors of Pad Thai into a convenient casserole format. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful!
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