Introduction
Delve into a delightful dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and rice noodles with a rich sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, easily prepared in an Instant Pot. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 chicken breasts, diced
10 ounces rice noodles
2 cups carrot matchsticks
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons minced garlic
6 tablespoons soy sauce
1 cup pad thai sauce
3 cups water
1 yellow pepper, sliced thinly
1 red pepper, sliced thinly
4 green onions, sliced
1/3 cup chopped peanuts
1/3 cup fresh chopped cilantro
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy this scrumptious Instant Pot Chicken Pad Thai, featuring the perfect balance of flavors and textures!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In the Instant Pot, combine olive oil, diced chicken, minced garlic, soy sauce, pad thai sauce, water, and rice noodles. Ensure the noodles are submerged in the liquid.
Step 2: Secure the Lid
Secure the lid and set the Pressure Release Valve to sealing.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Select the manual setting and pressure cook on high for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Quick Release
Once the cooking time is complete, press cancel and perform a quick release of the steam, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Wait until the pressure gauge drops and it’s safe to open the lid.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
Add the carrot matchsticks, sliced red and yellow peppers, and half of the chopped peanuts. Gently toss the mixture.
Step 6: Let Sit
Replace the lid and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to become tender-crisp. For softer vegetables, let it sit a few minutes longer.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the lid and serve the dish garnished with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and the remaining chopped peanuts.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can replace the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
Rice Noodle Cooking Time
Cooking time may vary for different brands of rice noodles; ensure to follow the package instructions for best results.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sauté the diced chicken in olive oil with minced garlic to add flavor and cook the meat before pressure cooking. This technique enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Pressure Cooking
Using the Instant Pot for pressure cooking ensures the chicken and noodles are cooked quickly while retaining moisture and flavors. This technique is ideal for time-efficient meals.
Quick Release
Performing a quick release of steam after cooking allows you to stop the cooking process immediately, preventing overcooking of the ingredients, especially the noodles.
Resting
Letting the dish sit after adding vegetables allows them to steam slightly, achieving a tender-crisp texture. Adjust the resting time based on your desired vegetable tenderness.
Garnishing
Garnish with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and peanuts just before serving for added flavor, visual appeal, and texture contrast.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute rice noodles with other noodle varieties like egg noodles or gluten-free noodles, but cooking times may vary.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well for meal prep, making it easy to portion out and reheat throughout the week.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn for added nutrition and flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This delicious chicken and vegetable dish prepared with rice noodles is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and rich sauces creates a satisfying meal that is ready in a matter of minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
– Add shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian option.
– Substitute rice noodles with zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta for a healthier twist.
– Incorporate other vegetables such as snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition and crunch.
– Use teriyaki sauce in place of pad thai sauce for a different flavor profile.
– Top with sesame seeds or lime wedges for added zest.
– Serve with a side of spring rolls to elevate the meal experience.
– Create a stir-fry bowl by adding cooked quinoa or brown rice as a base.
– Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint to refresh the dish.
