Name: Vietnamese Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 6 cups shredded napa cabbage; 2 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken (cold (use leftovers or a rotisserie chicken)); 3/4 cup fresh mint (roughly chopped); 3/4 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 red onion (peeled and sliced thin); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (roughly chopped); 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts ((cashews for paleo-friendly)); 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup water; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce

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The Vietnamese Chicken Salad is one of those dishes that brings back warm memories for me. I remember the first time my friend invited me over for dinner and made this vibrant salad. The combination of fresh ingredients and the zingy dressing made it a hit, and I couldn’t help but go back for seconds. It was a hot summer evening, and the refreshing flavors of this salad were just what we needed. With shredded chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of sweetness from honey, it’s a dish you can enjoy any time of year. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a gathering with friends, this salad never fails to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Peeler

The Appeal of This Vietnamese Chicken Salad

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

One of the reasons I absolutely love making Vietnamese Chicken Salad is the gorgeous array of fresh ingredients. The crispness of napa cabbage and shredded carrots provide a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the tender shredded chicken. You can use leftovers or a store-bought rotisserie chicken, which keeps things simple and quick!

A Flavorful Dressing

The dressing is where the magic truly happens. A combination of lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of honey creates an irresistible balance of savory and sweet. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the sauce clings beautifully to the salad ingredients, making every forkful a delight.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

This salad is incredibly versatile! It’s not only a fantastic lunch option but also a great meal prep solution. You can prepare the salad mix without the dressing and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just add the dressing before serving, and you’ll have a fresh meal ready in minutes.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether you’re having a casual lunch with friends or hosting a summer BBQ, Vietnamese Chicken Salad is a crowd-pleaser. Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors are perfect for sunny days. Plus, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side dish to complement any main course.

Healthy and Wholesome

This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also nutritious! Packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats from peanuts, it’s a well-rounded meal that satisfies your cravings without feeling heavy. It’s perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier while still enjoying flavorful dishes.

Easy to Customize

Another reason I adore this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily add in your favorite vegetables or even swap out the peanuts for cashews if you’re following a paleo diet. Feel free to get creative and make it uniquely yours!

Ingredients to Make Vietnamese Chicken Salad

The ingredients for Vietnamese Chicken Salad come together to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The key players, like napa cabbage and shredded chicken, not only offer a satisfying crunch but also a boost of nutrients. Each ingredient contributes to the overall freshness that makes this dish so appealing.

6 cups shredded napa cabbage – Provides a crunchy base, full of vitamins and minerals.
2 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken, cold – Perfect for using leftovers, adding protein to keep you full.
3/4 cup fresh mint, roughly chopped – Offers a refreshing flavor that brightens the salad.
3/4 cup shredded carrots – Adds color and sweetness, enhancing both taste and visual appeal.
1/2 red onion, peeled and sliced thin – Provides a slightly sharp taste, balancing the sweetness of other ingredients.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped – Adds an aromatic quality that complements the other flavors.
1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts (or cashews for paleo-friendly) – Brings in a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.
1/4 cup fresh lime juice – Essential for the dressing, adding acidity and brightness.
1/4 cup water – Used to achieve the right consistency for the dressing.
3 tablespoons honey – Introduces a touch of sweetness that balances the savory components.
2 tablespoons fish sauce – Adds depth and umami to the dressing.
1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce – Provides a subtle kick and complexity to the flavor profile.

Instructions for Vietnamese Chicken Salad

Making the Vietnamese Chicken Salad is a breeze, and I can promise you that the end result is worth every second. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will impress your friends and family!

Begin by gathering all the salad ingredients. In a large bowl, add the shredded napa cabbage, shredded chicken, mint, carrots, red onion, cilantro, and peanuts. Toss everything together gently to mix.
In a separate small bowl, combine the lime juice, water, honey, fish sauce, and chili garlic sauce. Whisk them together until the mixture is well blended.
Once the dressing is ready, set it aside. It’s important to not add it just yet.
When you’re ready to serve the salad, pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Make sure to drizzle it evenly so that all the ingredients get a taste of that delicious dressing.
Toss the salad gently, ensuring that every ingredient is coated well with the dressing. This step is key to achieving the perfect flavor in every bite.
After tossing, you can serve the salad immediately, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
If you have leftovers, store the salad mix without the dressing in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’ve added dressing, consume it within 24 to 36 hours for the best taste.

Things Worth Knowing

Freshness Matters: Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the level of honey or chili garlic sauce in the dressing to suit your palate.
Chill the Dressing: For an extra refreshing salad, chill your dressing for a bit before tossing it with the salad.
Check for Spice: The chili garlic sauce can vary in spice level, so taste the dressing before adding it all to the salad.

Helpful Notes about Vietnamese Chicken Salad

Here are some helpful notes to ensure your Vietnamese Chicken Salad turns out great! These tips will help you make the most of your cooking experience.

Storage: After mixing the salad with dressing, it’s best to consume it within 24 to 36 hours for optimal freshness.
Freezing: This salad isn’t suitable for freezing due to the fresh vegetables; however, you can freeze any extra shredded chicken you have.
Pairing: This salad pairs well with grilled shrimp or fish, making it a versatile option for various meals.
Customization: Feel free to tailor the ingredients to your liking; you can add or substitute with your favorite veggies.
Meal Prep: Prepare the salad mix ahead of time and store it without the dressing to save time during busy weeks.

Pairing Suggestions for Vietnamese Chicken Salad

When it comes to serving Vietnamese Chicken Salad, there are countless delicious options to consider. Here’s how you can enjoy this dish to the fullest:

As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
For Lunch: Enjoy it as a light lunch option, perhaps with a side of spring rolls for a complete meal.
Picnics: Perfect for outdoor gatherings; pack it in a cooler and enjoy it fresh with friends.
Family Dinner: A vibrant centerpiece for family dinner tables, adding color and crunch to your meal.
Seasonal Pairings: Great for summer barbecues or light dinners; the fresh ingredients are perfect for warm evenings.

FAQ

The Vietnamese Chicken Salad stands out due to its unique combination of fresh ingredients and the bold flavors of the dressing. Unlike many Western salads that may rely heavily on creamy dressings, this dish features a light dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and honey, which brings a fresh and zesty flavor. The inclusion of herbs like mint and cilantro also adds an aromatic quality that is characteristic of Vietnamese cuisine, making it a delightful change from traditional salads.

Absolutely, you can prepare the Vietnamese Chicken Salad ahead of time! To keep the salad fresh, mix all the ingredients except the dressing and store them separately in the refrigerator. The salad mix can last around four to five days without the dressing. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the dressing and toss. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dish for meal prep or gatherings.

Customizing the Vietnamese Chicken Salad is easy! You can add other vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch. If you prefer a different protein, feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. You can even adjust the dressing to match your taste preferences by adding more honey for sweetness or more chili garlic sauce for heat. Get creative and make it your own!

The Vietnamese Chicken Salad is a healthy option! Packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein from the chicken, and healthy fats from peanuts, it’s a well-balanced meal. It’s low in calories but high in flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste. Plus, the fresh ingredients ensure you’re getting plenty of vitamins and minerals!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Vietnamese Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. It’s an easy recipe that offers substantial health benefits, making it a great option for any meal. I encourage you to try making this scrumptious salad at home, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!