Description
This Vietnamese Chicken Salad with Rice Noodles is a light yet satisfying dish that blends tender shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, rice noodles, and aromatic herbs. Tossed in a zesty, spicy dressing, it’s a refreshing and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights or warm weather.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
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3 serrano peppers, thinly sliced
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4 cloves garlic
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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4 tablespoons fish sauce
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6 tablespoons lime juice
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6 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Salad:
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1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
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6 oz rice noodles
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4 large carrots, peeled
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8–10 large green cabbage leaves
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1 large handful cilantro leaves
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1 large handful of mint leaves
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1 large handful green onions
Instructions
Make the Dressing:
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Thinly slice serrano peppers and set aside.
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In a food processor, blend garlic, vinegar, brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, and vegetable oil until smooth.
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Stir in sliced serrano peppers.
2. Cook the Chicken:
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Bring water to a boil, turn off heat, and add chicken breasts.
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Cover and let sit for 25–30 minutes.
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Shred the cooked chicken with forks and mix with a small amount of dressing.
3. Prepare the Noodles:
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Soak rice noodles in cold water for 15 minutes.
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Drain well.
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Heat a little dressing in a skillet, add noodles, and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
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Cut noodles shorter if desired.
4. Prep the Vegetables:
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Pulse carrots in a food processor until finely chopped.
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Shred the cabbage.
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Mince cilantro, mint, and green onions.
5. Assemble the Salad:
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In a large bowl, combine chicken, noodles, carrots, cabbage, herbs, and remaining dressing.
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Toss until evenly coated.
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Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust spice by reducing or removing serrano pepper seeds.
Boil noodles briefly for a firmer texture.
Fresh herbs give the best results—avoid dried substitutes.
Prepare components ahead to save time during busy evenings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiled, Stir-Fried, Assembled Cold
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Keywords: Vietnamese salad, chicken noodle salad, rice noodles, healthy dinner, Southeast Asian cuisine, fresh herbs, spicy dressing, meal prep salad