If you are craving a vibrant, refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and texture, this Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Combining tender shredded chicken with crisp vegetables and fresh herbs, all tossed in a tangy, sweet-spicy dressing, this salad offers an irresistible balance of savory, citrusy, and crunchy elements. It’s a perfect light lunch or a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings a little taste of Vietnam right to your table with minimal fuss and maximum yum.

Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe, you only need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work together perfectly. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding crunch, freshness, or a pop of herbal brightness, so don’t skip or substitute lightly!

Cooked chicken breast (2 cups, shredded): Provides the hearty, protein-packed base of the salad, best when tender and moist.
Shredded cabbage (2 cups, napa or green): Adds a satisfying crunch and mild taste to balance the herbs and dressing.
Shredded carrots (1 cup): Brings vibrant color and natural sweetness that brightens the dish.
Julienned cucumber (1 cup): Offers refreshing coolness and crispness filtering through every bite.
Thinly sliced red bell pepper (1/2 cup): Adds a sweet, juicy crunch and beautiful red contrast.
Fresh mint leaves (1/2 cup, chopped): Infuses the salad with a fragrant, cooling note typical of Vietnamese cuisine.
Fresh cilantro leaves (1/2 cup, chopped): Gives the salad a bright, herbaceous kick that lifts every mouthful.
Fresh basil leaves (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a slightly sweet, peppery flavor that rounds out the herb mix.
Thinly sliced red onion (1/4 cup): Counters with a sharp bite and a little crunch.
Chopped roasted peanuts (1/4 cup): Sprinkled on top for that irresistible, nutty crunch and texture contrast.
Fish sauce (1/4 cup): The salty backbone of the dressing that brings authentic Vietnamese flavor.
Fresh lime juice (3 tablespoons): Provides a zesty, tangy brightness that ties the dressing together.
Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds a mild acidity that enhances freshness without overpowering.
Sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the acidity and saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens the umami flavor and complements the fish sauce.
Minced garlic (2 cloves): Gives the dressing a sharp, aromatic punch.
Finely chopped red chili (1 small, optional): Adds just the right amount of heat if you like your salads with a little spice.

How to Make Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Start by combining all the fresh components in a large bowl. The shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, red bell pepper, and herbs come together here, creating a colorful, textured base. Mixing them gently ensures that the flavors remain distinct and the vegetables keep their crunch.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, fresh lime juice, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and the optional chopped red chili. Keep whisking until the sugar dissolves completely and the dressing looks smooth and well blended. This is the magic sauce that makes the Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe so exciting — it’s bright, savory, and slightly sweet all at once.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over your prepared salad ingredients. Now comes the fun part: tossing everything thoroughly so that every bite is perfectly coated with the vibrant dressing. Make sure to do this gently but well to maintain the crispness of the veggies and herbs without bruising them.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer the tossed salad to a pretty serving platter or individual bowls. Don’t forget to sprinkle on the chopped roasted peanuts for that satisfying crunch! Garnish additionally with extra fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness at its peak.

How to Serve Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Adding crushed roasted peanuts on top is a signature touch that brings both texture and nuttiness. Fresh herbs like mint or cilantro sprigs can elevate visual appeal and aroma, making the salad even more enticing. A wedge of lime on the side lets everyone add an extra citrus punch if desired.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with simple sides that highlight its refreshing flavor. Steamed jasmine rice or lightly fried spring rolls complement it well, offering a heartier option without overshadowing the salad’s delicate balance. It’s equally at home on a picnic alongside fresh fruit or cold Vietnamese iced coffee for a full sensory experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve this Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe in edible lettuce cups to add a fun interactive element. You can also layer it in a clear glass bowl for a stunning visual presentation showing off the bright colors and layers. Alternatively, plate it over a bed of rice noodles for a more filling meal that still highlights the signature flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers to keep the veggies crisp. The salad will stay fresh for up to two days in the refrigerator, but it’s best eaten soon after making for optimal texture and flavor.

Freezing

This Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe is not ideal for freezing because the fresh vegetables will lose their crunch and become watery when thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerate only.

Reheating

Since the salad is served cold and fresh, reheating is not recommended. If you want a warm dish, try using the shredded chicken warmed separately in other recipes, but keep the salad ingredients chilled and crisp for the best eating experience.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient, flavorful option that works perfectly in this Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe. Just shred it finely for easy tossing with the vegetables and dressing.

Is fish sauce necessary, or can I substitute it?

Fish sauce is essential for authentic Vietnamese flavor, but if you prefer, you can substitute with soy sauce plus a little extra lime juice and a pinch of salt. It won’t be exactly the same, but still delicious.

How spicy is this salad with the chili included?

The small red chili adds a gentle heat that complements the fresh herbs and tangy dressing without overwhelming the palate. If you like it hotter, feel free to add more chopped chili or serve with chili flakes on the side.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with firm tofu or a mix of mushrooms, and swap the fish sauce for a vegan alternative or soy sauce. The fresh herbs and dressing will still shine beautifully.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken breast?

The easiest method to shred chicken breast is to cook it thoroughly, then use two forks to pull it apart into thin strips. Alternatively, you can use your fingers or pulse it briefly in a food processor for a finer texture.

Final Thoughts

This Vietnamese Chicken Salad Recipe is a vibrant celebration of colors, textures, and flavors that will brighten up any meal. Easy to make and delightfully fresh, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever you need a tasty escape to Vietnamese cuisine. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this light yet satisfying salad as much as I have!