This Vietnamese Chicken Salad, or Goi Ga, is a bright, refreshing dish bursting with flavors and textures. Shredded chicken is tossed with crisp cabbage, carrots, and fragrant fresh herbs, all brought together by a tangy, savory Nuoc Cham dressing. A final sprinkle of roasted peanuts adds the perfect nutty crunch!
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a quick and healthy meal, this salad is a go-to option. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be customized with different veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
Full Recipe:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 6 cups shredded Napa cabbage or wombok
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- ½ cup roasted unsalted peanuts, chopped
For the Nuoc Cham Dressing:
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 red chili, deseeded and finely minced (optional)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, red onion, mint, and cilantro. Toss well to mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, rice vinegar, honey or sugar, garlic, and chili (if using) until the sugar dissolves.
- When ready to serve, pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer to a serving platter or individual bowls. Top with the chopped peanuts. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 275 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Vietnamese Chicken Salad: A Light, Flavorful, and Nutritious Delight
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and vibrant presentation. One dish that perfectly captures these qualities is Vietnamese Chicken Salad, or Goi Ga. This dish is a staple in Vietnamese households, offering a balance of textures and flavors that make every bite incredibly satisfying. Unlike Western-style salads that often rely on heavy dressings, this salad is dressed with a bright and zesty Nuoc Cham, a traditional Vietnamese sauce made from lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of sweetness.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy lunch, a light dinner, or a refreshing side dish, Vietnamese Chicken Salad is an excellent choice. It’s packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, making it both nutritious and delicious.
A Brief History of Vietnamese Chicken Salad
Vietnamese Chicken Salad, or Goi Ga, has long been a favorite in Vietnamese households. While many traditional Vietnamese dishes involve slow cooking and bold spices, this salad showcases the lighter and fresher side of Vietnamese cuisine. The dish is believed to have originated as a way to use up leftover boiled or roasted chicken while incorporating locally available fresh herbs and vegetables.
Over time, the dish has evolved with regional variations. Some versions include shredded green mango or papaya, while others might feature a different mix of herbs. Regardless of the variations, the key elements remain the same—tender shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and the signature Nuoc Cham dressing.
What Makes Vietnamese Chicken Salad Unique?
Vietnamese Chicken Salad is distinct from other chicken salads because of its bold flavors and refreshing textures. Here are some of the elements that set it apart:
- Aromatic Fresh Herbs – Unlike typical salads that rely on lettuce or spinach, this salad uses a combination of mint and cilantro, which add an unmistakable fragrance and brightness to the dish.
- Crunchy Textures – The use of shredded cabbage, carrots, and peanuts creates a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Nuoc Cham Dressing – This zesty dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and rice vinegar provides the perfect balance of acidity, saltiness, and sweetness.
- Light and Healthy – With lean chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and a naturally low-fat dressing, this salad is a nutrient-dense meal that’s satisfying without being heavy.
Health Benefits of Vietnamese Chicken Salad
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.
- High in Protein – The shredded chicken provides a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and keeping you full longer.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals – The fresh vegetables and herbs are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, which help boost the immune system and promote overall health.
- Low in Calories – With a light dressing and fresh ingredients, this salad is a low-calorie meal that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.
- Gut-Friendly – The fermented fish sauce and vinegar in the Nuoc Cham dressing support digestion and gut health.
Customizing Your Vietnamese Chicken Salad
One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Option – Swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or jackfruit to create a plant-based version.
- Gluten-Free – This dish is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on fish sauce to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten-based additives.
- Add More Crunch – For even more texture, add thinly sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or bean sprouts.
- Make It Spicier – If you love heat, add extra red chilies to the dressing or top the salad with sliced jalapeños.
Pairing Vietnamese Chicken Salad with Other Dishes
While this salad is delicious on its own, it pairs beautifully with other Vietnamese dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Vietnamese Spring Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn) – Fresh shrimp and vegetable spring rolls complement the lightness of the salad.
- Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) – A warm bowl of pho alongside this salad creates a well-rounded meal.
- Grilled Lemongrass Chicken – If you want a heartier meal, serve the salad as a side to grilled lemongrass-marinated chicken.
- Jasmine Rice or Rice Vermicelli – Adding rice or noodles makes the meal more filling without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Tips for Making the Best Vietnamese Chicken Salad
To ensure your salad is fresh, flavorful, and well-balanced, follow these expert tips:
- Use Fresh Herbs – Always use fresh mint and cilantro for the best flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant taste.
- Thinly Slice the Vegetables – The thinner the cabbage, onions, and carrots are sliced, the better they absorb the dressing. A mandoline slicer can help achieve a perfect texture.
- Chill Before Serving – For the most refreshing taste, refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Adjust the Dressing to Your Taste – If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more lime juice. If you want it sweeter, increase the honey or sugar slightly.
How to Store Vietnamese Chicken Salad
Although this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for later.
- Keep the dressing separate – If you’re making the salad ahead of time, store the Nuoc Cham dressing separately to keep the vegetables crisp.
- Refrigerate Properly – Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing can be kept for up to 5 days.
- Avoid Freezing – Since this salad contains fresh vegetables and herbs, freezing is not recommended as it can make them soggy.
Conclusion
Vietnamese Chicken Salad is a refreshing, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of Vietnamese cuisine. With its crisp textures, zesty dressing, and fragrant herbs, it’s the perfect meal for anyone looking for something light yet satisfying.
Whether you make it for a quick weekday lunch, a summer gathering, or a nutritious dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, its customizable ingredients and easy preparation make it a great addition to any meal plan.