| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 240 | 12g | 2g | 14g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 3g | 25g | 2.1g |
If you’re looking for a dish that strikes the perfect balance between fresh and flavorful, the Vietnamese Coriander Chicken Salad is a must-try. Growing up in the vibrant culinary landscape of Texas, I was always surrounded by hearty, bold flavors. However, my love for this recipe stems from its refreshing and zesty profile paired with wholesome ingredients, taking me on a journey far beyond the borders of home.
Refreshing and Nutritious
The Vietnamese Coriander Chicken Salad isn’t just delightful for your taste buds; it’s also fantastic for your health. Packed with lean chicken breasts and an array of fresh vegetables such as shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrients. The Vietnamese coriander (also known as cilantro) and fresh mint leaves elevate its freshness, while the toasted peanuts add a satisfying crunch. If you’re looking to boost your vitamin and mineral intake, this dish does just that—thanks to ingredients like cucumber and bell pepper that are rich in vitamins A and C.
A Perfect Fusion of Flavors
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its harmonious blend of flavors. The fish sauce, lime juice, and Thai bird chilies (if you like a bit of heat) create a vinaigrette that is both tangy and spicy, tying the dish together deliciously. Imagine your taste buds dancing with excitement—the savory fish sauce mixes wonderfully with the citrusy lime and sweetness of the sugar.
This salad also allows for a bit of creative freedom. If you can’t find Vietnamese coriander, cilantro makes for a great substitution. What better way to introduce your family to new flavors while keeping the essence of the dish? Moreover, the toasted peanuts and optional fried shallots provide a nice textural contrast to the fresh veggies and tender chicken, making every bite a delightful experience.
Another reason I adore the Vietnamese Coriander Chicken Salad is its versatility and how well it complements other dishes. For instance, it pairs beautifully with a bowl of pho or a plate of grilled lemongrass pork. It’s similar in some ways to the Thai Green Papaya Salad, which also offers a fresh and tangy flavor profile, though with a completely different ingredient set.
The Vietnamese Coriander Chicken Salad is a dish that suits various occasions—be it a weeknight dinner or a potluck party. Its light, refreshing quality makes it ideal for warmer days, yet its vibrant flavors hold up no matter the season.
So whether you are a seasoned home cook or someone looking to find joy in the kitchen, I highly recommend trying out this delicious and healthy Vietnamese Coriander Chicken Salad. It’s a taste of something different yet comfortingly familiar.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Vietnamese coriander (cilantro can be substituted), chopped
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup fried shallots (optional)
- 1/3 cup fish sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 Thai bird chilies, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
Method
Step One
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chicken breasts and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the water and let cool. Once cool, shred the chicken into thin strips.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Vietnamese coriander (or cilantro), shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, thinly sliced bell pepper, chopped fresh mint leaves, and thinly sliced cucumber. Toss well to mix all the ingredients together.
Step Three
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, fresh lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, thinly sliced Thai bird chilies (if using), and water. Stir until the sugar has dissolved to form the dressing.
Step Four
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step Five
Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted peanuts and fried shallots (if using) on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your Vietnamese Coriander Chicken Salad!
