Recipe Ideas

Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe

What’s a recipe that’s been a game changer in my kitchen?What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe?In a nutshell, it’s like a chicken salad sandwich, but instead of heavy bread, we’re loading up on crisp veggies, fresh herbs, and a light, zingy dressing that’ll make your taste buds sing. I actually think it tastes way better. I remember my aunt would bring a similar dish to family picnics, and it was always the first to disappear. This recipe is my take on that classic, tweaked and perfected over the years. It’s a crowd-pleaser!

Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is Vietnamese Chicken Salad?

So, what exactly isWhat is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad? It’s essentially shredded chicken tossed with a medley of crunchy vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers, all brought together by a light and flavorful Vietnamese-inspired dressing, usually served with rice. With a touch of fish sauce (don’t be scared! Is it heavy or gloopy like some American chicken salad can be? It’s a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, often served as a starter or a light meal, and it’s incredibly versatile – you can adjust the ingredients to your liking and make it your own!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

How do I start to fall in love with this recipe? The combination of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and that amazing dressing is just *chef’s kiss*. It’s perfect for those days when you’re craving something satisfying but don’t want anything too heavy.

Beyond the taste, this is a must-have.Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe.Is incredibly easy to make. Seriously, it’s one of those recipes that comes together in minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. What are some good ways to use up leftover cooked chicken? And speaking of budget-friendly, the ingredients are all relatively inexpensive and easy to find.

What are some of the best ways to serve salads? Wrap it in lettuce cups for a light and healthy lunch, pile it onto a crusty baguette for a delicious sandwich, or serve it as a side dish with grilled meat or fish. I’ve seen it served with rice crackers as an appetizer! Trust me, you’ll be making this recipe soon!What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe?What is better than chicken salad?

How do I make Vietnamese Chicken Salad?

Quick Overview

Making this What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe?Is it a breeze to shred chicken? What’s the best way to make a delicious dressing? What’s the best way to toss everything together, sprinkle with some chopped peanuts and fresh herbs, and you’re good to go!

Ingredients

What is the recipe for chicken salad?

* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great! ) * 1/2 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced (napa or green cabbage) * 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded * 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced * 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional, but adds a nice texture) * 1/4 cup chopped peanuts * 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro * 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint.

For the Dressing:

* 3 tablespoons fish sauce (I use Red Boat, but any brand will do) * 3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed is best! ) * 2 tablespoons sugar * 1 clove garlic, minced * 1/2 red chili, finely chopped (optional, for a little heat) * 1 tablespoon water

Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What is the step-by-

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones first. You can shred it with two forks or your fingers – whatever works best for you. Just make sure the pieces aren’t too big.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

Thinly slice the cabbage, carrot, cucumber, and red onion (if using). The thinner you slice them, the better they’ll incorporate into the salad. I like to use a mandoline for the cabbage and cucumber to get them super thin.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, chopped chili (if using), and water until the sugar is dissolved. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Is it necessary to add a little more lime juice for extra tang or sugar to balance the flavors?

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced cabbage, carrot, cucumber, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Do you want your veggies to get soggy?

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

What are the best toppings for a salad?What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe? is ready to serve.

Step 6: Chill (Optional)

While it’s delicious served immediately, this salad also tastes great after it’s been chilled for a bit. The flavors meld together even more as it sits. If you’re making it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe?I love serving it in lettuce cups for a healthy and refreshing meal. Enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

This What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe?Is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. For a light and healthy lunch, serve it in lettuce cups or with a side of brown rice. If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, pile it onto a crusty baguette or croissant for a delicious sandwich. It also makes a great side dish with grilled meats or fish.

For a Casual Lunch: Serve the salad in crisp lettuce cups for a super refreshing and low-carb option. Bibb lettuce or butter lettuce works perfectly. Add a sprinkle of extra peanuts and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

For a Quick Dinner: Wrap the salad in rice paper wrappers with some vermicelli noodles and extra herbs for a healthy and satisfying meal. Serve with peanut sauce for dipping.

For a potluck or party:This salad is always a hit at potlucks. Serve it in a large bowl with a side of rice crackers or baguette slices for guests to enjoy.

I always serve this with iced tea. It’s the perfect complement to the flavors in the salad. My family loves it when I make this, especially on hot summer days!

How do I make Vietnamese Chicken Salad?

Want to take your What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe?How can I take my business to the next level?

How do you choose the right chicken?Can you use leftover grilled chicken? If you’re using leftover chicken, you might want to add a little extra dressing to keep it moist.

Don’t overdress the salad: Don’t overdress the saladAdd dressing slowly and toss gently until everything is just coated. You don’t want the salad to be swimming in dressing. A little goes a long way!

Adjust the sweetness and tanginess: Adjust the sweetness and tanginess: Adjust theWhat is a good Vietnamese dressing?

Add Some Crunch:Is it safe to eat cabbage and carrots?

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro and mint are essential for the authentic Vietnamese flavor. Don’t skimp on the herbs!

Toast the Peanuts:Is it safe to toast peanuts before adding them to salad?

I also sometimes add a little bit of shredded green papaya to the salad. It adds a really nice texture and flavor. The key is to experiment and find what you like best!

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

This What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe?Is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep the veggies from wilting.

Room Temperature:I don’t recommend leaving this salad out at room temperature for more than a couple of hours, as the dressing can cause the veggies to become soggy.

Refrigerator Storage: What is theCan you store salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days?

How do I use a freezer I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the veggies will become mushy when thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh.

What is Glaze Timing Advice?If you make the dressing ahead of time, store it separately from the salad and add it just before serving to prevent the veggies from getting soggy.

I always make sure to use a really good quality container when storing this salad. It helps to keep it fresh and prevents the flavors from transferring to other foods in the refrigerator.

What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora

Can I make this ahead of time?
Can you make salad a few hours ahead of time? Is it safe to add peanuts and herbs just before serving?
Can I use a different type of protein?
Can you substitute chicken for leftover roasted pork?
How do I substitute fish sauce for olive oil?
If you don’t like fish sauce, try substituting it with soy sauce or tamari. The flavor will be different. Is it necessary to add a little extra lime juice to compensate for the lack of tanginess?
How can I add more vegetables to my diet?
What are some good substitutes for edamame?
Is this recipe gluten free?
Can you substitute soy sauce for fish sauce?

Final Thoughts

Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

What is my go-to book and why?What is a Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe?What I love about this recipe is how it’s so adaptable. What are some ways to customize the dressing to suit your taste?

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing meal that’s packed with flavor, this is the recipe for you. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. What are some of my favorite Asian dishes?

What do you think of this recipe? I’d love to hear about your modifications. And if you make any changes, I’d love to hear about them too!

I’m Maria, a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, personal trainer, author, and podcaster. I love helping people improve their physical and mental health through easy-to-understand wellness advice and delicious recipes made with nourishing ingredients. Pull up a seat—you’re welcome at this table!

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