Welcome to my Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich recipe – also known as Banh Mi! If you’ve never tried a Banh Mi before, you’re in for a mouth-watering treat. This sandwich is the perfect fusion of French and Vietnamese cultures, resulting in a delicious, great-to-hold sandwich.

This recipe brings together all the classic elements of a traditional Chicken Banh Mi. Crusty French bread lightly toasted and spread with creamy mayonnaise and pâté, then filled with sweet pickled carrots, daikon radish, slices of tender chicken meat, fresh cilantro sprigs, juicy cucumber slices, crunchy lettuce leaves and fiery jalapeño peppers. A sandwich that’s packed with flavor yet stays light and fresh!

I’ve been making Banh Mi for years, and this recipe is one that I love to come back to time and time again. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus it always gets rave reviews from my guests!

So let me take you on a culinary adventure as we create the perfect Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich - Banh Mi — Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich – Banh Mi

I know what you may be thinking, another chicken sandwich recipe? Yes, but trust me, this Vietnamese chicken sandwich — also known as Banh Mi— is unlike any other sandwich you’ve ever tasted. And let me tell you, once you try it, you won’t want to go back to any other kind of chicken sandwich recipe.

The combination of tender Vietnamese grilled chicken, pickled carrots and daikon radish, fresh cilantro stems, crisp lettuce leaves, and a tangy sauce made with soy sauce and fish sauce all served on a crispy and fluffy baguette is simply divine. With every bite, your taste buds will dance with joy in your mouth!

And let’s not forget the versatility of this recipe; whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or dinner party or just craving a fulfilling breakfast-to-go sandwich, this Vietnamese chicken sandwich fits the bill.

So what makes this recipe that irresistible? Perhaps it’s the perfect harmony between the freshness of the vegetables and herbs and the juicy flavors of the grilled chicken breast. Or maybe it’s the mayo-based spread that brings everything together so deliciously.

One thing is for sure: this Vietnamese chicken sandwich recipe will always leave you feeling satisfied and wanting more. So if you want to impress your taste buds with something new and exciting, grab some ingredients today and follow my simple instructions for creating an unforgettable meal that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredient List

Get ready to sink your teeth into this delicious Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich!

Here is the list of ingredients you will need to make this flavorful Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich (Banh Mi Recipe). Don’t worry if you don’t have all of them, I will provide substitute options in the next section. Here are the main ingredients to gather:

For the Pickled Carrots and Daikon:

1/2 cup of sugar
1/2 cup of rice vinegar
1/2 cup of warm water
1/4 cup of fish sauce
1 shredded carrot
1 shredded daikon radish

For the Grilled Vietnamese Chicken:

2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast
1/4 cup of chopped lemongrass (white part only) or lemongrass paste
3 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
2 tablespoons of fish sauce
1 tablespoon of sugar
Black pepper

To Assemble The Sandwich Banh Mi:

4 to 6 regular size French baguette loaves, sliced lengthwise
Mayonnaise or mayonnaise and egg mixture
Sandwich spread, such as sriracha or hoisin sauce
Thinly sliced sweet onion
Leaf lettuce or arugula
Fresh cilantro stems
Pickled carrots and daikon
Grilled Vietnamese chicken

Make sure to include these ingredients in your grocery list so that you can create a fantastic Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich at home.

The Recipe How-To

This sandwich packs a flavor punch with every bite.

Now that we have gathered all our necessary ingredients, it’s time to make the Banh Mi sandwich! In this section, I’ll guide you through the steps on how to assemble this delectable Vietnamese chicken sandwich. Don’t worry even if you’re new to cooking or just transitioning into Vietnamese cuisine, this recipe is easy-to-follow and perfect for beginners.

Step 1: Marinating Chicken Breast

Start by marinating the chicken breast with lemongrass (use 1-2 stalks), soy sauce (2 tablespoons), and sugar (1 teaspoon) for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.
Once finished, let it cool down to room temperature before slicing diagonally into bite-sized pieces.

Pro-tip: For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge before grilling.

Step 2: Preparing Pickled Carrots and Daikon

To make the pickled vegetables, you’ll need a mandolin or a vegetable peeler. Peel and slice the daikon radish and carrot into thin matchsticks.
In a small bowl, combine rice vinegar (1/4 cup) and sugar (1/4 cup) until dissolved.
Add in the sliced vegetables and let it marinate for about 10 minutes before draining off any excess liquid.

Step 3: Assembling The Banh Mi Sandwich

Cut your baguette into sandwich portions (about 6 inches each) then slice them almost in half lengthwise.
Spread thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each bread top then a lighter layer of hoisin sauce.
On the other side of bread top, add a lettuce leaf then some pickled carrots and daikon on top of the lettuce. Place a few slices of marinated chicken on top of the pickled vegetables.
Add fresh cilantro stem, sliced sweet onions, and drizzle with fish sauce (about a teaspoon).
Fold it altogether then gently press down on the sandwich to flatten slightly.
Repeat for desired number of servings.

Now that you’ve followed all the steps in this recipe, congratulate yourself! You’ve successfully created a homemade Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich or Banh Mi Ga. Serve with your choice of side dish or pair it with an iced coffee, lemonade, or any other chilled drink. Enjoy your delicious Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwich!

Substitutions and Variations

Banh Mi is a staple street food in Vietnam, and now you can make it in the comfort of your own home.

If you are feeling bold or adventurous, you can make a few variations to this classic Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich recipe.

– Meat Substitutions: While the traditional recipe calls for grilled chicken, you can opt for roasted chicken or shredded chicken instead. You can also try using lemongrass chicken, Vietnamese grilled chicken or even chicken sausage for a unique twist.

– Bread Substitutions: If baguettes are not your thing, feel free to do this recipe with ciabatta, sourdough bread or even a croissant. The key is to stay true to the filling and sauce which make the sandwich so special.

– Veggie Substitutions: Add some sautéed mushrooms, roasted red pepper or cucumber slices to this sandwich for an added crunch and flavor. Vegan? Swap the meat out for some baked tofu and substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo.

– Sauce Variations: You can use Hoisin Sauce instead of Soy Sauce in the recipe, or experiment by adding sriracha or chili flakes to your preferred level of spiciness. For a tangy flavor boost, try adding lime juice.

Keep in mind the ratios of the ingredients when making substitutions and let your creativity run wild!

Serving and Pairing

This sandwich may look small, but it's mighty in flavor and satisfaction. — This sandwich may look small, but it’s mighty in flavor and satisfaction.

Now that you’ve made these delectable Vietnamese Chicken Sandwiches, you may wonder what to serve with them. Whether you are planning a picnic, enjoying a casual lunch, or hosting a party, this sandwich is the perfect main course for any occasion. With its tender grilled chicken and bright pickled vegetables, it is both satisfying and refreshing.

To complete your meal, I recommend pairing this sandwich with a light and crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Alternatively, an ice-cold beer is also an excellent choice thanks to its refreshing taste and ability to cut through rich flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, try iced tea with a squeeze of lemon or lime.

For sides, consider serving your sandwiches with a fresh green salad made with lettuce leaves and sliced cucumbers. Alternatively, Vietnamese spring rolls or crispy fried egg rolls make wonderful accompaniments to these sandwiches. These sides add crunch and freshness that complement the grilled chicken perfectly.

Finally, for dessert, I recommend something light and fruity like sliced mangoes drizzled with lime juice and topped with frozen raspberries. The sweetness of the fruit will provide a refreshing end to your meal without being overly heavy.

In conclusion, this Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and pairs well with light wines, beers or iced tea. Adding sides like green salad or spring rolls adds freshness and crunch to your meal while fruit-based desserts like mangoes provide the perfect ending. Enjoy!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Don't be intimidated by the list of ingredients - this dish is easy to make and worth the effort. — Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients – this dish is easy to make and worth the effort.

Whether you’re preparing for a party or simply have some leftovers, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when it comes to storing and reheating your Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich.

If you’re planning on making the sandwiches ahead of time, it’s best to keep the bread and filling separate until you’re ready to serve. This will keep the bread from getting soggy and the fillings from drying out. Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature, and store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

When it’s time to serve, toast the bread in a toaster or oven until it’s crispy on the outside. Then, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one half of the bread and top it with the chicken and other fillings.

If you have leftover sandwiches, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep them in an airtight container, with the bread and filling separate. When you’re ready to eat, toast the bread as suggested above and reheat the chicken in a saucepan over low heat or in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.

It’s important to note that while mayonnaise is safe to store at room temperature for short periods of time, if your sandwiches will be sitting out for an extended period of time, it’s best to leave off the mayonnaise until just before serving.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your Vietnamese Chicken Sandwiches stay fresh and delicious whether you’re making them ahead of time or reheating leftovers.

Tips for Perfect Results

Say goodbye to bland sandwiches and hello to the ultimate Banh Mi experience.

Are you ready to take your Vietnamese chicken sandwich Banh Mi recipe to the next level? Here are a few tips to help you achieve that perfect sandwich.

1. Don’t overcook the chicken

Overcooked chicken can ruin the flavor and texture of your sandwich. Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s just moist and juicy. For even better results, try marinating the chicken in lemongrass, which adds an aromatic and flavor-packed element to any grilled chicken dish.

2. Use fresh ingredients

Fresh cilantro stems, lettuce leaves, and thinly sliced sweet onions will make your sandwich taste brighter and more flavorful. It’s important to use super-fresh veggies in your recipe for an authentic taste and texture.

3. Pickling perfection

Pickled vegetables like carrot and daikon radish are a key ingredient in Banh Mi, adding the perfect crunch and tang to each bite. For best results, make sure you slice the vegetables into thin matchsticks and let them pickle for at least an hour in the refrigerator.

4. Toast Your Baguette

Toasting your baguette will give it a slightly crispy exterior with a soft interior for a delicious combination of textures that compliment your flavor-packed filling.

5. The Right Chicken-to-Vegetable Ratio

When it comes to making Banh Mi sandwiches, finding the perfect ratio of chicken-to-vegetables is key. Use shredded or sliced roasted or grilled chicken thighs or breasts for the perfect balance of protein with pickled veggies.

6. Layer Your Ingredients Strategically

Layering your sandwich ingredients is important to create visual appeal and prevent soggy bread. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise (or even better yet, a blend of mayo with egg yolk), followed by your sandwich spread before adding lettuce leaves, sliced cucumbers, pickled carrots/daikon on top of one another before topping off with chicken breast or thigh meat.

7. Watch Your Sauces

With a perfect ratio of vegetables and proteins as the base, the sauce is the primary flavor vehicle. Add both fish sauce and soy sauce to your mix —fish sauce brings an umami bomb to elevate the flavor, while soy sauce mellows out with its salty punch.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to create a mouthwatering Vietnamese chicken sandwich Banh Mi that will impress your family and friends.

FAQ

Before we conclude this article, I want to address some common questions that people have asked me about making the Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich: Banh Mi Recipe. Making banh mi can seem tricky at first, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you’ll be able to make a delicious sandwich in no time. So let’s dive into some of the FAQs and get you on your way to cooking up a storm!

What is in a traditional Vietnamese banh mi?

Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich, may sound like an unusual and unlikely pairing: crispy bread rolls stuffed with a variety of ingredients including pate, mayo, Asian ham, pickled vegetables, green onions, fresh coriander/cilantro, a generous amount of spicy chillies, and a sprinkle of seasoning.

What is banh mi sauce made of?

To create the perfect sauce for your Vietnamese-inspired dish, all you need to do is combine creamy mayo, tangy hoisin sauce, spicy sriracha, and a pinch of salt and pepper. For an alternative ingredient, consider using Maggi seasoning to add an extra depth of flavor. This common ingredient can be found at your local international foods store or purchased online through Amazon. Adding Maggi seasoning to a wide variety of sauces, soups, and stir-fry’s is a popular practice in many Asian cuisines.

What kind of bread is used for banh mi?

When preparing a banh mi sandwich, the type of bread you use is crucial. The baguette plays a significant role in the overall taste and texture of the sandwich. It is essential to toast the bread correctly for the perfect crunch with each bite. Purchasing a French-style baguette may not be the best option, and it’s recommended to opt for a different size.

What is chicken banh mi called in Vietnamese?

With this recipe, I will guide you on how to make a delicious Vietnamese specialty known as bánh mì gà nướng. It features marinated grilled chicken seasoned with East Asian spices, complemented by pickled vegetables, spicy chili, and fresh cilantro. And to add extra crunch, the chicken is served on a hot and crispy baguette.

What is the yellow stuff in banh mi?

To create a smooth and creamy yellow dressing for your banh mi, mix oil and egg yolks with either butter or mayonnaise. In fact, butter is considered one of the fundamental constituents of this iconic Vietnamese sandwich, while many classic banh mi recipes often feature the egg-based dressing of mayonnaise.

Does banh mi have mayo or butter?

When it comes to the spread on a banh mi, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not a garlic aioli. It’s actually a simple mixture of mayonnaise or butter mixed with mayonnaise. It’s crucial to note that there is no room for fish sauce in the spread, as it should only be used in the filling. Pork is also not a necessary component in the spread, leaving many options open for creativity.

Bottom Line

There is no denying the fact that a Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich, also known as Banh Mi, is a delicious treat that should be tried at least once in a lifetime. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or looking for something new to add to your recipe collection, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy your craving for something unique and flavorful.

With a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, this Chicken Banh Mi recipe is easy to prepare and makes for an absolutely mouthwatering sandwich. Whether made with grilled chicken or roasted chicken, this recipe yields a delightful protein-packed sandwich that is sure to please everyone.

So go ahead and try this Vietnamese Chicken Sandwich recipe. Once you get the hang of it, get creative with different substitutions and variations to create your own unique twist on this classic sandwich. There’s no limit to the number of exciting taste combinations you can create with such an amazing flavor profile. Trust me when I say that once you try it, you’ll be hooked for life.

So what are you waiting for? Fire up your grill or pull out your slow cooker and start cooking up something special today! Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a delicious meal, this Chicken Banh Mi recipe will surely impress and leave everyone wanting more. So grab some baguette bread and fresh ingredients, mix together some sauces and spreads, and start assembling the most mouthwatering Vietnamese Chicken Sandwiches today!

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