Dive into the zest of Vietnam with James Anderson’s easy Vietnamese Chicken Salad recipe – fresh, healthy, and bursting with flavor!
Having worked at Food And Meal for the past few years, I’ve had the pleasure of trying many delicious dishes from around the world. But lately I’ve felt myself craving lighter, healthier meals that still deliver on big, bold flavors. That’s why I was thrilled when my colleague introduced me to her family’s traditional Vietnamese chicken salad recipe.
The second I took a bite, I was hooked! The combination of tender poached chicken, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, toasted peanuts and tangy lime dressing was an explosion of textures and flavors in my mouth. I love how it manages to be refreshing and filling at the same time – a perfect light summer meal.
Beyond just tasting incredible, I’m always looking for dishes that are simple enough for my busy lifestyle. This salad comes together in minutes, with easy-to-find ingredients. It’s now my new go-to weeknight dinner when I want something nutritious but also craveable.
I can’t wait for you to try this Vietnamese Chicken Salad recipe for yourself! The vibrant medley of flavors and colors instantly puts me in a good mood. I hope it brightens your day too. Let me know what you think – I’m sure this salad will earn a permanent spot in your regular dinner rotation.
Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipes
This salad is the epitome of Vietnamese flavors and tastes. The shredded chicken is combined with herbs and a tangy dressing, and peanuts are usually added to the mix. The sauce is not your typical vinaigrette, and it gives this dish a delicious Asian flavor, but balances it out with the fresh mint. You can also top this salad with peanuts, which add even more flavor. Then, serve it with a wedge of lime.
Vietnamese Chicken Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken cooked shredded
- 1/4 cabbage sliced
- 1 carrot peeled and sliced 1/2 onion
- 1 cup herbs
- 3 tbsps peanuts roasted, chopped
- 3 tbsps fried shallots
- 1/2 lemon juice
- 4 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tsp salt
- 3 tsp sugar
- 1 cup fish sauce dipping sauce
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine, lemon juice, vinegar, salt and sugar. Stir until sugar and salt dissolves.
- In a large bowl, add cabbage, carrot, onion, herbs, chicken and vinegar mixture. Gently toss to well combined.
- Turn salad to a serving platter and sprinkle roasted peanuts, fried shallots and serve with fish sauce.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Cooking Method: Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preparation:
- Start by marinating your chicken breasts as per the original Vietnamese Chicken Salad recipe. This typically involves a simple blend of fish sauce, garlic, and lemongrass. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or longer if you have time to spare. Remember, the longer it marinates, the more flavor it will absorb.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Fire up your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). If you’re using a stovetop grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat.
- Oil and Season the Chicken:
- While the grill is heating, brush your chicken breasts with a light layer of vegetable oil. This helps prevent sticking and encourages those beautiful grill marks. Season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts directly on the grill grates or into the grill pan. Grill for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to develop those appealing grill marks and attain a lovely smoky flavor.
- Check for Doneness:
- To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Rest and Slice:
- Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a moist, delicious result. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Follow the original Vietnamese Chicken Salad recipe for assembling your salad. The smoky grilled chicken will add an extra layer of flavor to your salad, complementing the fresh herbs and zesty dressing perfectly.
Tips for making Vietnamese Chicken Salad
Cooking Tips for Perfect Vietnamese Chicken Salad
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don’t rush the marinating process. Give your chicken at least 30 minutes in that flavorful marinade. For an even more intense flavor, marinate for several hours or overnight.
- Grill to Perfection: When grilling the chicken for the salad, make sure your grill is properly preheated. Sear the chicken over medium-high heat for that perfect smoky flavor and grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Thinly Sliced Chicken: When slicing the chicken, aim for thin, uniform strips. This not only looks better but ensures that the chicken is distributed evenly throughout the salad.
- Fresh Herbs: Opt for fresh herbs whenever possible. Thai basil, cilantro, and mint should be as vibrant and fragrant as can be. If you can’t find fresh, high-quality herbs, consider growing your own.
- Dress Right Before Serving: Don’t dress the salad until just before serving. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy. Keep the dressing and salad components separate until you’re ready to eat.
Serving Suggestions for Vietnamese Chicken Salad
he Vietnamese Chicken Salad is a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. It pairs beautifully with a variety of other recipes, making it an excellent choice for a multi-course meal or a potluck spread. Here are some serving suggestions based on the extensive list of recipes provided:
- Light Lunch or Dinner: Serve the Vietnamese Chicken Salad alongside Grilled Fish Platter or Grilled Sea Bream for a light and healthy meal that’s packed with protein and fresh flavors.
- Picnic or Outdoor Gathering: Pair the salad with BBQ Prawns in Honey Mustard Sauce or Fish Skewers on Farmer’s Salad for a delightful outdoor feast that’s easy to pack and sure to impress.
- Casual Weeknight Meal: For a simple yet satisfying dinner, consider serving the salad with Whole Wheat Cheese Toast or Grilled Panini with Vegetables. These options add a comforting touch to the meal without overpowering the salad’s bright flavors.
- Asian-Themed Dinner Party: Complement the Vietnamese Chicken Salad with other Asian-inspired dishes such as Sushi Balls, Nigiri Sushi, or Hibachi Chicken and Fried Rice for a themed dinner party that takes your guests on a culinary journey.
- Vegetarian Options: If you’re catering to vegetarians, the Vietnamese Chicken Salad can be served with Tofu Hiyayakko or Vegetable Maki, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.
- Hearty Companions: For those who prefer more substantial fare, serve the salad with Mac and Cheese in a Coat or Beef Sukiyaki Hot Pot to balance out the lightness of the salad with a heartier counterpart.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: The salad’s fresh flavors make it a great side for various sandwiches and wraps, such as Ham Paprika Panini, Salami Panini, or even a classic Big Mac Sandwich.
- Refreshing Beverages: To wash down the meal, offer chilled wine spritzers, Wasabi, or a Sake Hot Pot for a refreshing beverage that complements the tangy lime dressing of the salad.
Remember, the key is to balance the flavors and textures so that each dish shines without overshadowing the others. Enjoy experimenting with these combinations to find your perfect meal pairing!
FAQs about Vietnamese Chicken Salad
- Can I make Vietnamese Chicken Salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the components in advance but dress the salad just before serving. This keeps it fresh and crisp.
- What can I substitute for fish sauce if I’m vegetarian? Soy sauce or a vegetarian fish sauce substitute works well.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
- How do I store leftovers? Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume them within a day or two for the best quality.
- Are there gluten-free alternatives for the soy sauce? Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.
Conclution
I hope this vibrant Vietnamese Chicken Salad recipe has inspired you to step outside your comfort zone and try new flavors. The medley of textures and herbs is so refreshing, making it the ultimate feel-good meal.
Whip up this easy salad on a hot summer evening or take it along on a picnic. I love serving it alongside grilled shrimp skewers and chilled wine spritzers. However you enjoy it, this salad is bound to be a crowd-pleasing addition to your repertoire.
Let me know if you give this recipe a try! I’d love to hear your thoughts, as well as any tweaks or additions you make. Cooking should be fun and creative. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this Vietnamese-inspired chicken salad.
Bon appétit! Here’s to bright, fresh and healthy flavors.
Sincerely, James
I'm James F Anderson, a noted sous chef from London and a Le Cordon Bleu alumnus. My career began in a Michelin-starred Parisian eatery, where my blend of classic and contemporary cooking, using seasonal ingredients, earned accolades. Recognized in culinary publications and on cooking shows, I’m committed to mentoring aspiring chefs and delivering memorable dining experiences, marking me as a standout talent in the culinary world.