Get ready to transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Vietnam with this mouthwatering Vietnamese Chicken Salad that's about to become your new obsession! Imagine a perfect harmony of crisp vegetables, tender shredded chicken, and silky rice noodles, all dancing together in a zesty, tangy dressing that will make your palate sing. This isn't just a salad – it's a flavor explosion that combines the freshness of herbs, the crunch of vegetables, and the irresistible umami of fish sauce in one incredible dish that's ready in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g rice noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Chili flakes to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables, shredding chicken, and measuring out liquid ingredients.
- Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add rice noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still slightly firm. Drain and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili flakes to create the dressing. Ensure sugar is completely dissolved.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, and fresh mint leaves.
- Add cooled rice noodles to the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more fish sauce, lime juice, or chili flakes to preference.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnishing with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.
Tips
- Noodle Know-How: For the best texture, don't overcook your rice noodles. They should be tender but still have a slight bite – aim for that perfect al dente consistency.
- Chicken Prep Hack: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly poach chicken breasts for a time-saving shortcut. Shred the chicken while it's still warm for easier pulling.
- Dressing Perfection: Whisk your dressing thoroughly to ensure the sugar completely dissolves. This helps create a balanced, smooth flavor profile.
- Flavor Boost: Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify. The ingredients will thank you!
- Customization is Key: Feel free to adjust the chili flakes to your heat preference. Start with a little and add more if you like it spicy.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh mint leaves and add them just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor and color.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This salad can be prepared in advance, but add the dressing and herbs just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg
