What are the ingredients in drunken noodles?

The main ingredients include rice noodles, chicken or tofu, bell peppers, Thai basil, garlic, shallots, and a savory sauce made of soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and chili paste.

What makes drunken noodles “drunken”?

Despite the name, there’s no alcohol involved! The term refers to how the dish is often consumed late at night or after drinking because it’s spicy, hearty, and deeply satisfying .

Are Thai drunken noodles unhealthy?

Not necessarily! With lean protein, fresh veggies, and moderate oil, it’s a well-balanced meal . Adjust sugar and sodium to make it healthier.

What is the best oil to use for Drunken Noodles Recipe?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil , peanut oil , or canola oil for optimal stir-fry results.

What are the ingredients in drunken noodles?

Drunken noodles typically include wide rice noodles, garlic, shallots, bell peppers, broccoli, Thai basil, and a sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and chili paste. Protein options like chicken, tofu, or beef can also be added.

What makes drunken noodles 'drunken'?

Despite the name, there’s no alcohol in drunken noodles. The dish earned its name because of its bold, spicy flavor that’s perfect after a night out or said to make you feel 'intoxicated' with flavor.

Are Thai drunken noodles unhealthy?

Thai drunken noodles can be a healthy option when made at home. They’re full of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and balanced seasonings. To make them even healthier, you can use low-sodium sauces and add extra vegetables.

What is the best oil to use for drunken noodles?

The best oils for making drunken noodles are neutral oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These allow for proper stir-frying without altering the flavor.

Can I make drunken noodles vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! To make vegetarian or vegan drunken noodles, substitute the chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein and use vegan oyster sauce and soy sauce. Skip the fish sauce or use a vegan alternative.

Drunken Noodles Recipe – Quick Thai Dinner Idea

Description

A bold and flavorful Thai Drunken Noodles recipe (Pad Kee Mao) made with wide rice noodles, chicken, Thai basil, and a spicy-savory sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy stir-fry is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz wide rice noodles
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 shallots, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
1 cup Thai basil leaves (or regular basil)
Juice of half a lime

Instructions

Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
In a small bowl, mix together oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili paste.
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and shallots, and stir-fry until fragrant.
Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 4–5 minutes.
Add the bell peppers and broccoli, stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and pour in the sauce mixture. Toss everything together until well coated.
Add Thai basil and stir until wilted. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Use tofu and vegan sauces for a vegetarian or vegan version.
For extra heat, add fresh Thai chilies or more chili paste.
Do not overcook the noodles to avoid breaking.
Use Thai basil for authentic flavor, but regular basil works in a pinch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 430
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 75mg