Slow Cooker Pad Thai
I love pad thai, but I hate standing over a hot stir-fry especially in the summer. This slow cooker version lets me keep my cool and enjoy pad thai, too.
I love pad thai, but I hate standing over a hot stir-fry especially in the summer. This slow cooker version lets me keep my cool and enjoy pad thai, too.
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 3 green onions thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 2 teaspoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped salted peanuts
- 3 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce or additional soy sauce
- 8 ounces uncooked asian lo mein noodles
- Carbohydrate 23.3720232648009 g
- Cholesterol 216.583854158532 mg
- Fat 7.29393303915391 g
- Fiber 2.59527999287631 g
- Protein 10.0463544649005 g
- Saturated Fat 2.81870606479209 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (305g)
- Sodium 100.781599996687 mg
- Sugar 20.7767432719246 g
- Trans Fat 1.124844641707 g
- Calories 186 calories
Step-by-step
- Place chicken in a 1-1/2- or 3-qt. slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, combine the next 6 ingredients; pour over chicken.
- Cook, covered, on low until a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 165 degrees, about 4 hours.
- Remove chicken; cool slightly. Shred chicken with two forks and return to slow cooker.
- In a large saucepan, cook noodles according to package directions.
- In a small nonstick skillet, heat butter over medium heat.
- Pour in eggs; cook and stir until eggs are thickened and no liquid egg remains.
- Drain noodles.
- Stir eggs and noodles into slow cooker.
- Top with green onions, peanuts and cilantro.
- Freeze option: Double the chicken mixture. Freeze half of cooled chicken mixture in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally and adding a little water if necessary. Prepare noodles and eggs as directed; stir into chicken mixture. Garnish as desired.
My Go-To Slow Cooker Pad Thai: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework, and trying to squeeze in some much-needed "me time." That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they're my secret weapon for effortless, flavorful dinners. This Slow Cooker Pad Thai is a perfect example. Forget spending hours slaving over a hot stove; this recipe lets me enjoy a restaurant-quality Pad Thai without the fuss.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. I can prep everything in the morning before work, pop it in the slow cooker, and come home to a fragrant and delicious meal waiting for me. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with the rich flavors of soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice, creating a tender and incredibly tasty base. The addition of peanuts, cilantro, and green onions adds a delightful crunch and freshness that perfectly complements the soft noodles and savory chicken.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. I can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes, catering to my family's preferences. Sometimes, I'll even add a handful of chopped shrimp or vegetables for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option.
The slow cooker is truly a lifesaver, especially during those crazy weeknights when time is of the essence. I can set it and forget it, knowing that a delicious and satisfying meal will be ready when I need it. This Pad Thai recipe has become a staple in our home, and I'm excited to share it with you – try it out, and let me know what you think!
Beyond the Weeknight Wonders
This Slow Cooker Pad Thai isn't just limited to weeknight dinners. It's also a fantastic option for entertaining guests. Imagine the compliments you'll receive as you effortlessly serve this aromatic and flavorful dish. It's impressive, yet surprisingly easy to make – the perfect combination for any hostess.
And the best part? The leftovers are amazing! I often make a double batch on the weekend, enjoying some for dinner and then saving the rest for lunch throughout the week. It's a great way to ensure I have healthy and delicious meals prepared even when I'm short on time.
Tips and Tricks for Pad Thai Perfection
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of this recipe:
- Chicken Choice: While I typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can experiment with other cuts like thighs for a richer flavor.
- Noodle Variety: Feel free to try different types of Asian noodles like rice noodles or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Spice it Up: If you like things spicy, don't hesitate to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Fresh Herbs are Key: The fresh cilantro and green onions really make this dish shine. Don't skip them!
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of extra peanuts, a squeeze of lime juice, or even some chopped fresh chili peppers can elevate this dish to the next level.
This Slow Cooker Pad Thai recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of efficient cooking. It allows me to enjoy a healthy and flavorful dinner without sacrificing my precious time or energy. I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your kitchen, too.
