Name: Delicious Drunken Noodles in 30 Minutes or Less
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Wide Rice Noodles (Soaked until softened but not mushy); 1 cup Broccoli Florets (Can substitute with other vegetables); 1 each Bell Pepper (Can use red or green); 1 each Onion (Use yellow onion for sweetness); 1 cup Carrots (Thinly sliced for quicker cooking); 8 ounces Chicken Thighs (Can substitute with shrimp or tofu); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced finely); 2-3 each Thai Red Chilies (Adjust based on spice tolerance); 2 each Green Onions (Chopped for garnish); 1 handful Thai Basil Leaves (Fresh for added aroma); 2 each Lime Wedges (To elevate the dish); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Use mushroom oyster sauce for vegetarian option); 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce; 1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce; 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Can be swapped with extra soy sauce for vegetarian option); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (Can substitute with honey or white sugar); 1/2 each Lime Juice (Fresh for best flavor)

The sizzle of wide rice noodles mingling with garlic and chilies instantly transports me to the vibrant streets of Thailand, where food is a celebration. My 35-Minute Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) is a quick yet satisfying dish that lets you savor the bold flavors of Thai cuisine right in your kitchen. With the option to swap in chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this recipe caters to every craving, while crisp vegetables bring a delightful freshness. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings but impressively packs the punch of a restaurant-quality meal. Curious about how to bring the taste of Thai street food to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why Choose Drunken Noodles Tonight?

Quick and Easy: This 35-minute recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Flavor Explosion: Packed with bold, authentic Thai flavors, each bite bursts with the delightful combination of garlic, chilies, and fresh herbs.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this dish easily accommodates protein swaps to suit your cravings or dietary needs.

Crisp Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of chewy noodles and crunchy vegetables, creating a satisfying mouthfeel in every bite.

Impressive Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at dinner parties or casual gatherings, and watch your guests rave about the incredible taste—who wouldn’t love a taste of Thailand?

Enhance your experience with a side of Thai cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Let’s jump into the details and get cooking!

Drunken Noodles Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything you need for these tasty Drunken Noodles!

For the Noodles

Wide Rice Noodles – The heart of this dish; soak them until softened but not mushy for that perfect texture.

For the Vegetables

Broccoli – Adds color and crunch; feel free to substitute with other stir-fry-friendly veggies like zucchini.
Bell Peppers – Sweet and vibrant; mix red and green for a beautiful presentation.
Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow onions work wonderfully here.
Carrots – For a slight sweetness and a nice crunch; slice them thin for quicker cooking.

For the Protein

Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful, they are ideal for this dish. Substitute with shrimp for a seafood twist or tofu for a vegetarian option.

For the Aromatics

Garlic – Essential for that savory depth; minced finely for maximum flavor release.
Thai Red Chilies – Adds heat; adjust the number according to your spice tolerance.

For the Garnish

Green Onions – Fresh crunch; chop them up to sprinkle on top just before serving.
Thai Basil Leaves – This adds an authentic aroma; use fresh leaves for a burst of flavor.
Lime Wedges – Brings a zesty brightness; don’t skip these as they elevate the dish!

For the Sauce

Oyster Sauce – The key to umami flavor; consider mushroom oyster sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and depth; mix in dark soy for an extra layer of flavor.
Fish Sauce – A must for authentic taste; can be swapped with extra soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
Brown Sugar – Helps balance the flavors, adding a hint of sweetness; try honey or white sugar if needed.
Lime Juice – Adds acidity to brighten up the dish; fresh juice is always best!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Drunken Noodles

Step 1: Soak Noodles
Begin by soaking 8 ounces of wide rice noodles in warm water for 15-20 minutes until they’re softened but still firm to the bite. Drain them thoroughly and set aside, making sure they are ready for the stir-fry process, as the noodles are the heart of the Drunken Noodles.

Step 2: Prepare Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon each of soy sauce and dark soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Add the juice of half a lime and a splash of water to create a harmonious mix. This sauce will add depth and flavor to your Drunken Noodles.

Step 3: Heat Wok
Preheat your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat, adding 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once the oil shimmers, it’s ready to use, ensuring a perfect sear on the chicken. The high heat is crucial for achieving that delightful smoky flavor characteristic of authentic Thai stir-fry.

Step 4: Cook Aromatics
Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 2-3 sliced Thai red chilies to the hot wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until the garlic is golden and fragrant, watching carefully to prevent burning. The aroma will fill your kitchen, lifting the excitement of cooking Drunken Noodles.

Step 5: Add Chicken
Introduce 8 ounces of chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, to the wok. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes, cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. The key is to ensure each piece gets a nice sear while staying juicy.

Step 6: Incorporate Vegetables
Next, add 1 sliced onion and 1 sliced bell pepper to the mix. Cook these veggies for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften but maintain a slight crunch. Then, step it up with 1 cup of broccoli florets and 1 cup of thinly sliced carrots, stirring until all vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 7: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Now, add the drained noodles to the pan along with the prepared sauce. Gently toss everything together for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the noodles absorb the sauce’s flavors while warming through. The combination will create a harmonious blend, enveloping each noodle strand.

Step 8: Finish with Herbs
In the final minute of cooking, stir in the chopped green onions and a handful of fresh Thai basil leaves. As the basil wilts, its aromatic scent fills the air, enhancing the dish’s freshness. This step adds a burst of color and flavor, completing your Drunken Noodles.

Step 9: Serve
Serve your Drunken Noodles immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves and lime wedges for a zesty kick. Enjoy the vibrant colors and enticing aromas, making this dish not just a meal but an experience reminiscent of the bustling streets of Thailand.

Drunken Noodles Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Seafood Swap: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a delightful seafood twist. The quick cooking will keep them tender and juicy.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with tofu, ensuring to press it to remove excess moisture for optimal texture and flavor absorption. Your veggie-loving friends will appreciate this hearty version!
Extra Crunch: Toss in snow peas, bok choy, or shredded cabbage for added freshness and crunch. These veggies provide vibrant colors and delightful textures that’ll brighten your plate.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap wide rice noodles for gluten-free rice sticks or zucchini noodles to cater to gluten sensitivities. Each bite will still deliver delicious flavor!
Spicy Kick: Increase the number of Thai chilies or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat. Just remember, spice tolerance varies, so add a little at a time!
Herb Variations: Feel free to explore with different herbs like cilantro or mint instead of Thai basil. Their distinct flavors can give a unique flair to your Drunken Noodles.
Sauce Twist: Replace oyster sauce with hoisin or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile, creating a sweeter and stickier sauce that complements the noodles beautifully.

Enhance your meal with a side of Thai cucumber salad or a refreshing soup to elevate the dining experience. Enjoy experimenting!

Expert Tips for Drunken Noodles

Noodle Soaking: Use warm water instead of boiling to soften wide rice noodles, preventing them from becoming too mushy when stir-fried.
Prep Ingredients: Have all your ingredients chopped and ready before cooking, as Drunken Noodles comes together quickly; you’ll want a seamless cooking flow.
Adjust Spice Level: Start with one chili and taste as you go; you can always add more spice, but it’s difficult to tone it down if it’s too hot.
High Heat Cooking: Always maintain high heat throughout the cooking process to achieve that smoky flavor characteristic of Thai stir-fries; this is key for flavor absorption.
Fresh Herbs Last: Add fresh green onions and Thai basil at the end of cooking to maximize flavor and aroma; cooking them too long will diminish their freshness.

What to Serve with 35-Minute Drunken Noodles?

Elevate your dining experience and create a memorable meal with delightful sides and beverages that perfectly balance the bold flavors of this Thai feast.

Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing counterpart that adds coolness and crunch, complementing the dish’s spice beautifully. The light dressing brightens each bite, enhancing the overall meal.
Hot-and-Sour Soup: Rich with flavors and warm spices, this soup provides a lovely contrast to the chewy noodles. Its tangy finish preps your palate for the richer notes to come.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Absorb the mouthwatering sauce with fluffy jasmine rice, offering a neutral base that balances the flavors of your Drunken Noodles and adds comfort to your dining table.
Spring Rolls: Lightly fried or fresh, spring rolls add a crispy texture that’s great for dipping in sweet chili sauce. Their subtle taste provides a lovely contrast without overpowering your main dish.
Pineapple Fried Rice: Sweet and savory, this dish contrasts the noodles’ spiciness while echoing the essential Thai flavors. The fruity notes from the pineapple create a delightful harmony.
Thai Iced Tea: A beautifully spiced, creamy beverage that cools the palate between bites. The sweetness of the tea balances out the dish’s heat and adds a touch of indulgence.
Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Thai dessert. The creamy coconut and sweet mango beautifully contrast the savory flavors from earlier.

Enjoy the variety, and don’t hesitate to mix and match these options to find your perfect dining combination!

Make Ahead Options

These Drunken Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can soak and prep the wide rice noodles up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator to maintain their texture. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (mixing together all the sauce ingredients) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days without compromising flavor. To save even more time, chop your vegetables and protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu) ahead of time and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir-fry the aromatics and protein, add the prepped veggies, noodles, and sauce, and enjoy restaurant-quality Drunken Noodles with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Drunken Noodles

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are cooled before placing them in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Drunken Noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked Drunken Noodles at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) Recipe FAQs

What type of noodles should I use for Drunken Noodles?
Absolutely! Wide rice noodles are the best choice for Drunken Noodles due to their chewy texture that holds up well during stir-frying. Look for them in the Asian aisle of your grocery store or at an Asian market. If needed, you can also substitute with linguine or another flat noodle, but the flavor and texture will vary.

How do I store leftover Drunken Noodles?
I recommend storing leftover Drunken Noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing. This will help maintain the flavors and keep them safe from bacteria. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep them moist and flavorful!

Can I freeze Drunken Noodles?
Yes! You can freeze Drunken Noodles for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave a bit of space at the top as food can expand when it freezes. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm them in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to bring them back to life!

What should I do if my noodles are too soft?
If your noodles end up too soft, don’t worry! While you can’t completely fix them, you can salvage the dish by cooking on high heat for a bit longer to evaporate excess moisture. Stir-fry them quickly with additional vegetables or proteins to absorb some flavor and add texture. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!

Can I use other vegetables or proteins in this recipe?
Very much! Drunken Noodles is wonderfully versatile. You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Additionally, feel free to mix in any stir-fry-friendly vegetables like zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms. The sky’s the limit! Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the protein or veggies you choose.

Are there any dietary considerations for Drunken Noodles?
Absolutely worth considering! If you’re adapting this for anyone with allergies, be cautious with the sauces—especially the fish sauce and oyster sauce, as they are common allergens. For vegetarians, using mushroom oyster sauce instead of regular oyster sauce, and skipping the fish sauce can create a tasty, plant-based version without compromising on flavor.