Vietnamese-style noodle bowls are a flavorful and healthy dish, perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. This dish showcases the simple yet delicious flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, combining tender chicken with aromatic herbs and a tangy dressing, all served over light rice vermicelli noodles.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are readily available in supermarkets, but there are a few that you may need to look out for. Rice vermicelli noodles, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce are staples in Asian cooking and can be found in the international aisle. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint are usually available in the produce section. Jalapeno peppers provide a spicy kick, adjust according to your preference.
Ingredients for Vietnamese-Style Noodle Bowls with Chicken
Granulated sugar: Commonly used as a sweetener, it balances the tanginess of vinegar in the dressing.
Rice vinegar: A mild vinegar that adds a subtle acidity to the dressing.
Fish sauce: A salty, fermented condiment that adds a savory depth of flavor.
Fresh ginger: Adds a spicy and slightly sweet flavor that is essential in Vietnamese cooking.
Garlic: Provides a robust flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dressing.
Hoisin sauce: A thick, fragrant sauce used in marinades for its sweet and salty flavor.
Oyster sauce: A thick, rich sauce with a sweet, salty, and slightly earthy flavor.
Canola oil: Used for its neutral flavor when cooking the chicken.
Chicken breasts: The protein of the dish, cooked until tender and juicy.
Rice vermicelli noodles: Thin rice noodles that serve as the base of the dish.
Carrots: Adds a sweet crunchiness to the dish.
Bean sprouts: Provides a fresh, crispy texture.
Jalapeno: Adds heat to the dish, can be adjusted based on personal preference.
Scallions: Adds a slight oniony flavor and a pop of color.
Cilantro leaves: Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Mint leaves: Provides a cooling contrast to the heat of the jalapenos.
Peanuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
Lime: Squeezed over the top of the dish for a burst of citrus flavor.
One reader, Blisse Linares says:
This Vietnamese-style noodle bowl recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are vibrant and the chicken is perfectly tender. The combination of fresh herbs and crunchy veggies creates a delightful texture. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their homemade noodle game.
Essential Techniques for Vietnamese-Style Noodle Bowls
How to make the dressing: Combine the sugar, rice vinegar, fish sauce, ginger, and garlic in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until bubbles appear at the edges and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat, cool to room temperature, and remove the ginger and garlic.
How to cook the chicken: Combine hoisin and oyster sauces with canola oil, then coat the chicken. Arrange the chicken in a baking dish and cook at 400 degrees F for 35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
How to cook the rice vermicelli noodles: Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil, then remove from heat and add the noodles. Let stand for 3 to 5 minutes until tender. Drain, rinse with cold water, and shake the colander to remove excess water.
How to assemble the noodle bowls: Divide the noodles among 4 large bowls. Top with sliced chicken, carrots, bean sprouts, jalapeno, and scallions. Sprinkle with dressing, then garnish with cilantro, mint, and peanuts. Serve with lime and remaining dressing on the side.
How To Make Vietnamese-Style Noodle Bowls with Chicken
A complete meal in a bowl, these Vietnamese-style noodle bowls are packed with the flavors of cilantro, ginger, fish sauce, and rice vinegar.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspgranulated sugar,or more to taste
- ½cuprice vinegar,seasoned
- 1tbspfish sauce
- 1pcfresh ginger,(1 inch), cut into 2 thick slices
- 1clovegarlic,halved
- 2tbsphoisin sauce
- 2tbspoyster sauce
- 2tbspcanola oil
- 1lbskinless boneless chicken breasts
- 8ozrice vermicelli noodles
- 2carrots,grated
- 2cupsfresh bean sprouts
- 1jalapeno,or other chili pepper, cored and thinly sliced
- 2scallions,thinly sliced
- 3tbspfresh cilantro leaves,chopped
- 3tbspfresh mint leaves,chopped
- ¼cuppeanuts,coarsely chopped
- 1lime,quartered, for garnish
Instructions
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, rice vinegar, fish sauce, ginger, and garlic. Cook, stirring often, just until bubbles appear at the edges and the sugar has dissolved.
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Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. With a slotted spoon, remove and discard the ginger and garlic.
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Taste the dressing for seasoning and add more sugar if needed. The dressing should be a nice balance of vinegary and sweet.
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Warm the oven to 400 degrees F. In a bowl, combine the hoisin and oyster sauces with the canola oil. Add the chicken and turn well to coat all over.
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Arrange the chicken in an 8×8-inch baking dish in one layer. Cover with foil and cook for 35 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the middle of the breasts registers 165 degrees F.
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Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Remove from heat, add the noodles, and let stand for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
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Drain into a colander, rinse with cold water, and shake the colander to remove excess water.
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Heat a large nonstick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the cooked chicken breasts in one layer and cook 2 minutes.
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Turn and cook 2 minutes more. Watch carefully so they do not burn. Remove from the pan, and allow to cool briefly. Slice the chicken thinly, keeping the slices together if possible.
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Divide the noodles among 4 large bowls. Top with sliced chicken, carrots, bean sprouts, jalapeno, and scallions.
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Sprinkle with a few spoonfuls of dressing, then garnish with cilantro, mint, and peanuts. Serve with lime and remaining dressing on the side.
Nutrition
- Calories: 552.10kcal
- Fat: 15.37g
- Saturated Fat: 1.92g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.65g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.21g
- Carbohydrates: 67.72g
- Fiber: 4.89g
- Sugar: 13.37g
- Protein: 34.28g
- Cholesterol: 83.02mg
- Sodium: 913.03mg
- Calcium: 72.63mg
- Potassium: 751.75mg
- Iron: 2.72mg
- Vitamin A: 280.49µg
- Vitamin C: 20.35mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Vietnamese-Style Chicken Noodle Bowls
When preparing the chicken, it's important to ensure it's properly coated in the hoisin and oyster sauces. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist during baking. Additionally, when slicing the cooked chicken, try to keep the slices together. This will make it easier to evenly distribute the chicken among the noodle bowls, ensuring each serving has a good amount of chicken. Lastly, don't forget to rinse the rice vermicelli noodles under cold water after boiling. This stops the cooking process and prevents the noodles from sticking together.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Bowls
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Multitask: While the chicken is baking, prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables to maximize efficiency.
Quick cook: Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time.
Organized setup: Set up all ingredients and tools in an organized manner before starting to cook for a smoother process.
Efficient slicing: Use a sharp knife and slice all the vegetables and chicken uniformly for even cooking and a professional presentation.
Substitute Ingredients For Vietnamese-Style Noodle Bowls with Chicken Recipe
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the dish, while also providing a thicker consistency to the sauce.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a similar tangy flavor and acidity to the dish, enhancing the overall taste of the noodle bowls.
fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can offer a savory umami flavor similar to fish sauce, while also providing a rich depth of flavor to the dish.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a warm and aromatic flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, adding a concentrated garlic flavor to the dish.
hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce can provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor to the dish, adding depth and complexity to the sauce.
oyster sauce - Substitute with soy sauce and a touch of sugar: A combination of soy sauce and a small amount of sugar can mimic the savory and slightly sweet flavor of oyster sauce.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for canola oil, providing a neutral flavor and suitable for high-heat cooking.
skinless boneless chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu or tempeh: Tofu or tempeh can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, providing a source of protein and absorbing the flavors of the dish.
rice vermicelli noodles - Substitute with soba noodles: Soba noodles can be used as a substitute for rice vermicelli, offering a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture to the noodle bowls.
carrots - Substitute with jicama: Jicama can provide a similar crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor to the dish, adding a refreshing element to the noodle bowls.
fresh bean sprouts - Substitute with mung bean sprouts: Mung bean sprouts can be used as a substitute for fresh bean sprouts, offering a similar crunchy texture and a mild, nutty flavor.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano pepper can provide a similar level of heat and a bright, tangy flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall spiciness of the noodle bowls.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for scallions, offering a mild onion flavor and a pop of green color to the dish.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can provide a similar vibrant green color and a mild, fresh flavor to the dish, serving as a suitable alternative to cilantro.
fresh mint leaves - Substitute with basil leaves: Basil leaves can offer a similar aromatic and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients in the noodle bowls.
peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can provide a creamy texture and a nutty flavor similar to peanuts, adding a delightful crunch to the noodle bowls.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can be used as a substitute for lime, offering a similar level of acidity and a bright citrus flavor to the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Vietnamese-Style Chicken Noodle Bowls
- Elevate the plating: Arrange the noodles and chicken in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
- Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate the carrots, bean sprouts, and herbs to add pops of color and freshness to the dish, creating an inviting visual appeal.
- Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each ingredient, ensuring that they are meticulously arranged to create a balanced and harmonious composition on the plate.
- Emphasize texture: Highlight the contrast in textures by layering the tender chicken, soft noodles, and crunchy peanuts, creating a delightful sensory experience for the diners.
- Highlight the freshness: Showcase the freshness of the ingredients by arranging them in a way that accentuates their natural beauty and vibrant appearance.
- Utilize negative space: Embrace the use of negative space on the plate to draw attention to the main components, allowing them to stand out and take center stage in the presentation.
- Incorporate artistic flair: Add a touch of creativity by incorporating delicate herb garnishes or edible flowers to elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Noodle Bowls
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, and simmering.
- Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or holes that allow liquid to pass through, commonly used for lifting and draining foods from liquids.
- Meat thermometer: A thermometer used to measure the internal temperature of meat and poultry, ensuring they are cooked to a safe temperature.
- Baking dish: A dish used for baking and roasting foods in the oven, typically made of glass, ceramic, or metal.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations or holes used to drain liquids from food, such as pasta or vegetables.
- Nonstick skillet: A frying pan with a nonstick coating that prevents food from sticking, making it easier to cook with less oil or fat.
Storing and Freezing Vietnamese Noodle Bowls
- The vietnamese-style noodle bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store the rice vermicelli noodles, chicken, vegetables, and dressing separately to prevent the noodles from getting soggy.
- To store the leftovers, place the rice vermicelli noodles in a large airtight container. In separate smaller containers, store the sliced chicken, carrots, bean sprouts, jalapeno, and scallions. Keep the dressing in a separate jar or container.
- When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warm. Assemble the bowls by placing the desired amount of noodles in each bowl, topped with the chicken, vegetables, and a drizzle of the dressing.
- To freeze the vietnamese-style noodle bowls, cook and slice the chicken as directed in the recipe. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Store the chicken in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- It is not recommended to freeze the rice vermicelli noodles or the fresh vegetables as they may become mushy and lose their texture when thawed. The dressing can be frozen in a separate container for up to 1 month.
- To thaw the frozen chicken, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warm.
- When ready to serve, cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions and prepare the fresh vegetables as directed in the recipe. Assemble the bowls with the warm chicken, noodles, vegetables, and a drizzle of the dressing.
How To Reheat Leftover Noodle Bowls
Reheat the chicken in a skillet or wok over medium heat until warmed through. This will help maintain the texture and prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery or dry.
If the rice vermicelli noodles have clumped together, rinse them briefly under warm water to separate them. Place the noodles in a colander and steam them over boiling water for a few minutes until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the noodles in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until warmed through.
For the vegetables, such as carrots, bean sprouts, and jalapeno, it's best to keep them fresh and crisp. Reheat them briefly in a skillet or wok over high heat, just until they are warmed through, about 1-2 minutes.
Assemble the reheated components in a bowl, with the noodles on the bottom, followed by the chicken and vegetables.
Reheat the dressing in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the dressing in a microwave-safe bowl for 15-20 seconds.
Drizzle the warm dressing over the assembled bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro, mint, and peanuts.
If desired, serve with a wedge of lime on the side for squeezing over the top of the bowl before eating.
Interesting Fact About Vietnamese Noodle Bowls
The Vietnamese-style noodle bowls with chicken recipe is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of sweet, sour, and savory. This dish is a great source of protein, vitamins, and fiber, making it a nutritious meal option. The use of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint not only adds a burst of flavor but also provides additional health benefits. Additionally, the combination of rice vermicelli noodles, chicken, and fresh vegetables makes this dish a satisfying and filling meal. It's a perfect option for those looking for a balanced and flavorful meal.
Is Making Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Bowls at Home Cost-Effective?
This Vietnamese-style noodle bowls with chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as rice vinegar, rice vermicelli noodles, chicken breasts, and vegetables, are generally affordable and widely available. The dish offers a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fresh flavors, making it a satisfying and economical option for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it a budget-friendly choice. Overall Verdict: 9.
Is This Noodle Bowl Recipe Healthy?
The Vietnamese-style noodle bowls with chicken recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. The use of lean chicken breast provides a good source of protein, while the rice vermicelli noodles offer complex carbohydrates. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like carrots, bean sprouts, jalapeno, and scallions adds essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish. The dressing, made with rice vinegar, fish sauce, and sugar, is lower in fat compared to cream-based sauces.
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to lower the overall sugar content.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce instead of oyster sauce to decrease the sodium levels in the dish.
- Increase the portion of vegetables to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the bowls.
- Opt for whole grain or brown rice vermicelli noodles to increase the fiber and nutrient density of the carbohydrate component.
- Use a healthier cooking oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, instead of canola oil for its beneficial monounsaturated fats.
- Add more herbs like cilantro and mint, which are rich in antioxidants and provide fresh flavors without additional calories.
Editor's Take: Vietnamese-Style Noodle Bowls with Chicken
The Vietnamese-style noodle bowls with chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory in the dressing complements the tender, flavorful chicken. The addition of fresh herbs, crunchy peanuts, and zesty lime brings brightness to the dish. The use of rice vermicelli noodles adds a light and satisfying element. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious and satisfying dining experience, perfect for those seeking a taste of Vietnamese cuisine at home.
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Why trust this Vietnamese-Style Noodle Bowls with Chicken Recipe:
This recipe offers an authentic Vietnamese experience with its carefully selected ingredients, such as rice vinegar, fish sauce, and hoisin sauce. The methodical preparation ensures a perfect balance of flavors, and the use of fresh ingredients guarantees a delightful and wholesome meal. The detailed instructions and cooking techniques demonstrate the chef's expertise and dedication to delivering an exceptional culinary experience. Trust in the quality of this recipe, as it embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine and promises a truly satisfying dining experience.
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