Chicken & Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe

From Pan to Plate in 25 Minutes: Easy Chicken & Shrimp Pad Thai You’ll Crave Weekly

There’s something about the perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy flavors in Pad Thai that makes it absolutely irresistible. As a food writer and avid home cook, I’ve tested dozens of recipes, tried street food versions in Thailand, and recreated restaurant favorites at home—but nothing beats this easy chicken and shrimp Pad Thai recipe you can whip up in just 25 minutes. It’s become a staple in my weekly dinner rotation and a favorite for friends and family who think I’ve mastered some kind of Thai culinary magic. (Spoiler: I just found the right ingredients and the best method!)

Whether you’re looking for healthy weeknight meals, a way to elevate your fast dinners, or you're craving authentic Thai-style Asian dishes made right in your own kitchen, this dish delivers every time.

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Why Chicken & Shrimp Are the Power Duo of Pad Thai

While Pad Thai can be made vegetarian or with a single protein, combining chicken and shrimp brings a contrast of textures and flavors that’s hard to beat. The juicy chicken gives it heartiness, while the fresh seafood element from the shrimp adds sweetness and a touch of luxury.

I love using this combination not just because it tastes incredible, but because it’s a great way to get a protein-packed meal that doesn’t feel heavy. Plus, it makes the dish look extra special when serving guests (or when I just want to treat myself on a Wednesday night).

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Pad Thai

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to recreate this flavor-packed dish at home:

For the Pad Thai:

• 8 oz flat rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional, for added crunch)
• 1/3 cup crushed peanuts
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons tamarind paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (or more for spicy heat)

These ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores or Asian markets—and they make all the difference when creating an authentic, flavorful Pad Thai at home.

The Secret to the Best Pad Thai Sauce

The soul of Pad Thai lies in the sauce. It’s a harmonious blend of salty, sour, sweet, and spicy that clings to every strand of noodle. Let’s break it down:

• Fish Sauce: Brings that umami punch.
• Tamarind Paste: Adds the essential tang. Don’t skip this—it's key to making your dish taste truly authentic.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and saltiness.
• Brown Sugar: Balances the sour and spicy with sweetness.
• Chili Flakes: Customize to your heat preference. I like a little kick, especially for chilly nights.

You can make this sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s also great on other Asian dishes, including stir-fried vegetables and noodle bowls.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Easy Chicken & Shrimp Pad Thai

Here’s how I bring it all together on busy weeknights:

1. Prep the Noodles

Soak the rice noodles in hot water for about 20 minutes until soft but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients:

• 3 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 ½ tbsp tamarind paste
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp chili flakes
• Stir until sugar dissolves and set aside.

3. Cook the Proteins

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok. Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes until browned, then add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque. Remove both and set aside.

4. Scramble the Eggs

Add a little more oil if needed. Crack 2 eggs into the pan, scramble gently, and push to the side once cooked.

5. Sauté the Aromatics

Add minced garlic and carrots (if using), stir-fry for a minute.

6. Bring it All Together

Add soaked noodles and sauce to the pan. Toss everything together—chicken, shrimp, bean sprouts, green onions—until well coated and heated through.

7. Garnish & Serve

Plate it up with crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. That’s it!

Kitchen Tools That Make a Big Difference (Amazon Favorites)

As someone who cooks fast dinners almost every day, I’ve learned that the right tools save time and help you cook like a pro. Here are 3 kitchen essentials I swear by for this recipe:

1. Lodge 14-Inch Cast Iron Wok

This pre-seasoned wok heats evenly and holds a high temperature, perfect for stir-frying noodles quickly without getting soggy. The wide surface allows all ingredients to cook without crowding.

Check it out on Amazon – It’s a must-have if you love making Asian food at home!

2. Joyce Chen Classic Bamboo Stir Fry Spatula

Wooden spatulas are gentle on nonstick and cast iron surfaces. This one is angled perfectly to toss noodles and lift from the edges of a wok.

Grab it on Amazon – Ideal for all your stir-fry needs!

3. Thai Kitchen Premium Fish Sauce

Not all fish sauces are created equal. This one has deep, rich flavor without overpowering saltiness. A few drops elevate your Pad Thai sauce from bland to authentic.

Buy it on Amazon – Great for Thai, Vietnamese, or even fusion dishes!

How to Keep It Healthy (Without Losing Flavor)

Pad Thai doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. Here’s how I lighten things up without sacrificing flavor:

• Use lean chicken breast and fresh shrimp (not frozen or pre-cooked).
• Add more veggies—like zucchini ribbons or snap peas—for color and fiber.
• Cut back slightly on sugar and use low-sodium soy sauce.
• Swap in brown rice noodles or konjac noodles for a lower-carb twist.

These tweaks make it perfect for healthy weeknight meals, especially when you're craving something comforting yet fresh.

Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• A side of crunchy Thai cucumber salad
• A light miso or lemongrass broth
• Iced Thai tea or sparkling lime water

Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water to revive the noodles.

You can also prep all your ingredients ahead—chop veggies, mix the sauce, and soak noodles—so that dinner comes together even faster next time.

Final Thoughts: The Best Asian Dish to Add to Your Weeknight Routine

I’ve tested countless recipes, but this is hands-down the best one I keep coming back to. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re new to Asian dishes or looking to expand your homemade meal repertoire, this easy chicken shrimp Pad Thai recipe is your ticket to an unforgettable dinner without the takeout bill.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or even dinner parties—and the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as good the next day.

So next time you’re wondering what to make, skip the drive-thru and grab your wok. You’ll be amazed at what you can whip up in under 30 minutes.