What is in Vietnamese chicken salad?

Vietnamese Chicken Salad, traditionally called gỏi gà , is a vibrant dish made with thinly sliced chicken breast, shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, red bell peppers, red onion, fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, and crushed peanuts. It’s tossed in a zesty dressing made of lime juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and optional chili. Each ingredient plays a role in building bold flavor and satisfying crunch.

What are the four ingredients in chicken salad?

While Western chicken salads often rely on just four ingredients like chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and onion, Vietnamese Chicken Salad takes a more complex, herb-forward approach. However, if you want a simplified base for gỏi gà , focus on these four essentials: cooked chicken, shredded cabbage, fresh herbs, and tangy vinaigrette. From there, you can build layers of color, texture, and nutrition.

What is gỏi gà chicken salad in Vietnamese?

Gỏi gà translates directly to "chicken salad" in Vietnamese. This dish is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and often served at gatherings or festive meals. Unlike creamy Western counterparts, gỏi gà emphasizes freshness and balance, with shredded poached chicken mixed with vegetables, herbs, and a vinegar-based dressing. It reflects the Vietnamese philosophy of harmony between flavors, colors, and textures.

How to make Vietnamese poached chicken?

To make Vietnamese-style poached chicken, place chicken breasts in a pot of cold water with slices of ginger, scallions, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, and cook until the chicken is just done — about 10–12 minutes. Let it rest in the water for 5 minutes, then remove and cool. Slice thinly before adding to your salad.

Vietnamese Chicken Salad: Crisp, Fresh & Packed With Flavor

Description

Vietnamese Chicken Salad delivers crunchy veggies, juicy chicken, and bold herbs in every bite. A fresh, easy, and flavorful salad you’ll love.

Ingredients

- 12 oz cooked chicken breast, thinly sliced into strips
- 6 cups Napa cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 2 cucumbers, seeded and sliced into half-moons
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 large red chili, deseeded and julienned (optional)
- 1 cup mint leaves, loosely packed and torn
- 1 cup cilantro leaves, loosely packed
- 1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, finely chopped

Dressing:

- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup light soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped red chili (optional)

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Instructions

In a jar, combine all dressing ingredients and shake well. Set aside for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cabbage, onion, bell pepper, cucumber, carrot, mint, and cilantro.
Pour half of the dressing over the salad and toss well. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften slightly.
Toss again just before serving. Add more dressing to taste.
Sprinkle generously with chopped peanuts before serving.