Thai Khao Pad Recipe
Description
Khao Pad is Thailand’s classic fried rice dish, loved for its simplicity, versatility, and delicious flavor. Found everywhere from bustling street food stalls to family kitchens, this popular meal combines fragrant jasmine rice with eggs, chicken, onions, tomatoes, and savory seasonings for a satisfying dish that's quick enough for busy weeknights.
Unlike many other fried rice recipes, Thai Khao Pad is known for its light seasoning and fresh garnishes such as cucumber slices, lime wedges, and cilantro. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, fresh, and slightly tangy flavors.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Difficulty: Easy
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare.
- Authentic Thai street food flavor.
- Perfect use for leftover rice.
- Family-friendly and customizable.
- Great for lunch or dinner.
- Packed with protein and vegetables.
- Better than takeout.
- Budget-friendly meal.
How to Make
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Make sure the rice is cold and separated.
Prepare the vegetables and chicken before cooking.
2. Cook the Eggs
Heat oil in a wok or large skillet.
Scramble the eggs until just set.
3. Stir-Fry the Chicken
Add the chicken and cook until lightly golden and fully cooked.
4. Add the Vegetables
Add onions and tomatoes.
Stir-fry briefly while keeping the vegetables slightly crisp.
5. Fry the Rice
Add the jasmine rice and break apart any clumps.
Toss continuously to evenly distribute the ingredients.
6. Season the Rice
Add fish sauce, soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar.
Stir-fry until everything is well combined.
7. Finish and Serve
Add green onions and toss once more.
Serve immediately with cucumber slices, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro.
Tips for Perfect Thai Khao Pad
- Use day-old jasmine rice for the best texture.
- Cook over high heat for authentic flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Prepare all ingredients before cooking.
- Add lime juice just before eating for extra freshness.
Delicious Recipe Variations
Shrimp Khao Pad
Replace the chicken with peeled shrimp.
Crab Fried Rice
Use fresh lump crab meat for a seafood version.
Pork Fried Rice
Substitute thinly sliced pork for chicken.
Vegetarian Khao Pad
Use tofu and extra vegetables instead of meat.
What to Serve with Thai Khao Pad
- Thai cucumber salad
- Tom Yum soup
- Fresh lime wedges
- Sliced cucumber
- Nam Pla Prik (Thai chili fish sauce)
- Thai iced tea
How to Store Leftovers
Allow the fried rice to cool completely.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot.
Can Thai Khao Pad Be Frozen?
Yes.
Allow the rice to cool completely before freezing.
Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
For Serving
Instructions
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Heat oil in a wok and scramble the eggs until just cooked, then set aside.
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Stir-fry the chicken until fully cooked and lightly golden.
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Add the onion and tomato, cooking briefly until softened.
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Add the jasmine rice and stir-fry until heated through and separated.
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Season with fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar, then toss well.
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Return the eggs to the wok and add the green onions.
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Serve with cucumber slices, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro.
