Name: Savor Homemade Drunken Noodles in Just 35 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Wide rice noodles (Substitute with any stir-fry-friendly rice noodles if needed.); 2 cups Vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, onion, carrots) (Feel free to swap for zucchini or snow peas.); 1 lb Chicken thighs (Can substitute with chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 2 pcs Thai red chilies (Adjust based on spice tolerance.); 3 stalks Green onions (Chopped.); 1 cup Thai basil leaves (Substitute with sweet basil if needed.); 2 pcs Lime wedges; 3 Tbsp Oyster sauce (Use mushroom oyster sauce for a vegetarian option.); 2 Tbsp Soy sauce; 1 Tbsp Dark soy sauce; 1 Tbsp Fish sauce (Can substitute with more soy sauce.); 1 Tbsp Brown sugar (Can substitute with honey or white sugar.); 1 Tbsp Lime juice; 2 Tbsp Water (To smoothen the sauce.)

The aroma of sizzling garlic and fiery chilies wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a bustling Thai street market. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao), a quick yet satisfying stir-fry that’s bursting with bold flavors and vibrant colors. This dish features wide rice noodles tossed with juicy chicken and a medley of crisp vegetables, all covered in a glossy, savory sauce that makes every bite irresistible. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare—coming together in roughly 35 minutes—but it also transforms your weeknight dinner into a restaurant-quality experience. Are you ready to impress your family (or yourself) with some homemade Thai flair? Let’s dive in!

Why are Drunken Noodles a must-try?

Bold flavors: Experience a delightful blend of savory, spicy, and tangy notes that make Drunken Noodles stand out from ordinary stir-fries.

Quick preparation: In just 35 minutes, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without the hassle of complicated steps.

Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu and choose your favorite seasonal veggies—adapt the recipe to your taste!

Restaurant quality: Every bite captures the essence of authentic Thai street food—perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night in.

Satisfying comfort food: This dish is a delicious reminder that homemade offerings can rival any takeout, echoing the excitement of flavors you crave. For another easy meal idea, check out my Crack Chicken Noodles for more satisfying comfort!

Drunken Noodles Ingredients

For the Noodles

Wide rice noodles – These form the hearty base, providing a chewy texture; substitute with any stir-fry-friendly rice noodles if needed.
Vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, onion, carrots) – These vibrant additions add crunch and color; feel free to swap for zucchini or snow peas based on your preference.
Chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, they make for an ideal protein; can substitute with chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu for a meat-free option.
Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor; use fresh minced garlic for the best aroma.
Thai red chilies – Add a spicy kick; adjust quantity based on your spice tolerance—start with fewer and add more if desired.
Green onions – Brighten up the dish with freshness and a pop of color; sprinkle them generously at the end.
Thai basil leaves – Offer a unique anise-like flavor that’s unmistakable; you can substitute with sweet basil if you can’t find Thai basil.
Lime wedges – They bring brightness and acidity to elevate the dish.

For the Sauce

Oyster sauce – Provides rich, savory depth; for a vegetarian option, use mushroom oyster sauce.
Soy sauce and dark soy sauce – These offer both saltiness and sweetness, with dark soy adding an appealing color to the noodles.
Fish sauce – Delivers that essential umami flavor; can be substituted with more soy sauce if preferred.
Brown sugar – Balances flavors beautifully; can be swapped with honey or white sugar for a different sweetness.
Lime juice – Adds necessary acidity, enhancing and brightening the overall taste.

With these Drunken Noodles ingredients, you’re just steps away from whipping up an unforgettable meal that captures the heart of Thai cuisine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Drunken Noodles

Step 1: Soak Noodles
Begin by soaking the wide rice noodles in warm water for 15-20 minutes until they become soft and pliable, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. After they have softened, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside, ensuring they are ready to absorb all the wonderful flavors of the Drunken Noodles.

Step 2: Prepare Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and a splash of water until smooth. This savory sauce will infuse the Drunken Noodles with a rich, complex flavor. Set the sauce aside while you move on to the next steps of this tasty stir-fry.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a hot wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sliced Thai red chilies, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden. This aromatic base is essential for creating the depth of flavor in your Drunken Noodles.

Step 4: Cook Chicken
Increase the heat to high and add the chicken pieces to the wok. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful, forming a hearty protein component in your delicious Drunken Noodles.

Step 5: Add Vegetables
Next, toss in the sliced onion, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry these vibrant vegetables for another 3-4 minutes, until they are crisp-tender and maintain their vibrant color. The combination of tender chicken and colorful veggies creates an appealing and nutritious base for your Drunken Noodles.

Step 6: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the drained noodles and prepared sauce to the wok, gently tossing everything together to ensure the noodles are well-coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until the noodles have absorbed the sauce and are heated through. At this point, the Drunken Noodles will begin to glisten with flavor.

Step 7: Finish with Greens
Finally, stir in the chopped green onions and Thai basil leaves, cooking for just 1 more minute until the basil wilts and releases its fragrant aroma. This finishing touch brings freshness and vibrancy to the dish. Serve your Drunken Noodles hot, garnished with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Expert Tips for Drunken Noodles

Noodle Soaking: Soak the noodles in warm water instead of boiling them to prevent them from becoming mushy and maintain their perfect chewy texture.
Prep Ahead: Have your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying is fast-paced, and having everything at hand ensures the flavors come together harmoniously.
Spice Control: Adjust the number of Thai red chilies based on your spice tolerance. Start with fewer to avoid overwhelming heat and add more as desired.
Continuous Stirring: Keep stirring constantly while cooking to prevent the noodles from sticking to the wok and to ensure even cooking of all ingredients.
Final Touch: For a burst of freshness, add the green onions and Thai basil at the end to maintain their vibrant flavor and aroma, making your Drunken Noodles irresistible!

Storage Tips for Drunken Noodles

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the noodles cool down to room temperature before sealing them to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled Drunken Noodles in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the texture of the noodles may change slightly after thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce until heated through. This helps revive some of the original flavor and moisture of your Drunken Noodles.

What to Serve with Quick and Flavorful Drunken Noodles

Elevate your homemade Thai experience by pairing these vibrant noodles with complementary sides that enhance their delightful flavors.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden, crunchy delights offer a perfect contrast to the tender noodles and a burst of fresh veggie goodness.
Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers and carrots drizzled in tangy dressing brightens your meal and balances the savory notes of the noodles.
Garlic Fried Rice: The aromatic rice adds a comforting element to your plate, soaking up the delicious sauce from your Drunken Noodles for a satisfying bite.
Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted and packed with protein, these vibrant green pods provide a healthy, crunchy side to complement your bowl of noodles.
Thai Iced Tea: Smooth and sweet, this chilled drink with a hint of spice refreshes your palate after each spicy bite, making it the perfect drink to accompany your meal.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this delightful combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut rice offers a sweet finish that balances the savory flavors of your main dish beautifully.

Drunken Noodles Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this quick and flavorful Drunken Noodles recipe your own with these creative twists that will tantalize your taste buds!

Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood version. Cook shrimp until pink and tender for a juicy bite.
Vegan Option: Use tofu instead of chicken for a plant-based marvel. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube and sauté until golden.
Spicy Kick: Add more Thai red chilies or a dash of sriracha to amplify the heat. Adjust based on your spice preference for a fiery taste.
Crunchy Veggies: Substitute baby corn and sugar snap peas for a unique texture and flavor combo. They add a satisfying crunch and lovely colors that brighten any plate.
Sesame Flavor: Drizzle some sesame oil over the noodles at the end for a richer flavor profile. It enhances the overall umami, making every bite even more enticing.
Sweet Twist: Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a subtler sweetness. This will give your sauce a deliciously smooth finish.
Herb Variations: If you can’t find Thai basil, use fresh cilantro for a different aromatic experience. It adds brightness that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
Extra Saucy: Amplify the sauce by adding an extra splash of fish sauce or soy sauce. This ensures a burst of flavor in every mouthful and keeps the noodles moist.

Experiment with these ideas and make your Drunken Noodles sing to your preferred tastes. For another mouthwatering dish that’s equally easy and satisfying, don’t forget to explore my Crack Chicken Noodles; it’s packed with flavor and family love!

Make Ahead Options

These Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick, delicious meal even on your busiest nights! You can soak the wide rice noodles and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Chop your vegetables and proteins (like chicken) ahead of time, keeping them separate in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your Drunken Noodles, simply stir-fry the aromatics, add the prepped chicken and vegetables, toss in the soaked noodles and sauce, and finish with green onions and basil. This way, you’ll achieve just as delicious results with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right noodles for Drunken Noodles?
Absolutely! For Drunken Noodles, wide rice noodles are preferred due to their chewy texture that absorbs flavors well. When selecting noodles, look for those that are fresh or dried and labeled for stir-fry use. They’re often found in Asian markets. If you can’t find wide rice noodles, you may substitute them with any stir-fry-friendly rice noodles, just ensure they are cooked according to package instructions.

How should I store leftover Drunken Noodles?
Very! To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow the noodles to cool to room temperature before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat them on the stove with a splash of water or soy sauce to bring back moisture and flavor!

Can I freeze Drunken Noodles?
Absolutely! To freeze your Drunken Noodles, let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce. This method helps retain moisture and flavor and brings them back to life.

What if my Drunken Noodles turn out too sticky?
Oh no! If your Drunken Noodles are sticky, it may be due to overcooking or not soaking the noodles properly. To fix this, try tossing them with a little vegetable oil after cooking. This can help separate them. For the future, soak the noodles in warm water rather than boiling them to maintain their texture, and be sure to continuously stir while cooking to prevent sticking.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Drunken Noodles?
Very! When preparing Drunken Noodles, consider any allergies, particularly if you’re serving guests. The dish typically contains gluten (in soy sauce) and seafood (fish sauce). For gluten-free diets, you can use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. If you need it vegetarian, substitute fish sauce with additional soy sauce or use mushroom oyster sauce. Always check your ingredient labels to best accommodate dietary restrictions.

Can pets eat Drunken Noodles?
No! While some ingredients like rice noodles and vegetables may be safe for pets, others such as garlic and certain sauces can be harmful to them. It’s best to keep these delicious Drunken Noodles as a treat just for you and avoid sharing them with your furry friends!