How to Make Gà Xé Phay (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Gà Xé Phay is a cherished Vietnamese shredded chicken salad, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. Originating from Vietnam, this dish is a staple at family gatherings, festive occasions, and everyday meals, embodying the country’s love for fresh herbs, lean proteins, and zesty dressings. The name 'Gà Xé Phay' translates to 'shredded chicken', and the dish features tender poached chicken tossed with crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a tangy dressing. What makes Gà Xé Phay stand out is its harmonious balance of taste and nutrition, making it ideal for health-conscious diners. The salad combines juicy chicken with cabbage, carrots, and Vietnamese coriander, creating a refreshing meal that’s light yet satisfying. Gà Xé Phay is often served as a dinner dish in Vietnam, but its versatility allows it to be enjoyed for lunch or even breakfast. Its minimal use of oil and sugar, alongside abundant natural flavors, make it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting authentic Vietnamese cuisine that’s both delicious and nourishing.
Ingredients
- 300g Chicken breast (Gà ta (Vietnamese free-range chicken) preferred)
- 1 cup, shredded Cabbage (Bắp cải)
- 1/2 cup, julienned Carrot (Cà rốt)
- 1/4 cup, chopped Vietnamese coriander (Rau răm)
- 2 tbsp, chopped Mint leaves (Húng lủi)
- 1/4 cup, thinly sliced Red onion (Hành tím)
- 2 tbsp, crushed Roasted peanuts (Đậu phộng rang)
- 2 tbsp Fish sauce (Nước mắm)
- 2 tbsp Lime juice (Nước chanh)
- 1 tsp Sugar (Đường)
- 1 small, sliced Chili (Ớt)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Poach the chicken breast in simmering water with a pinch of salt un...
Poach the chicken breast in simmering water with a pinch of salt until fully cooked (about 15 minutes). Remove, let cool, and shred finely.
Step 2 · Prepare the vegetables: shred cabbage
Prepare the vegetables: shred cabbage, julienne carrots, and thinly slice red onion. Soak onion in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce pungency.
Step 3 · Chop Vietnamese coriander and mint leaves finely
Chop Vietnamese coriander and mint leaves finely. Set aside.
Step 4 · In a small bowl
In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and sliced chili to create the dressing. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
Step 5 · Combine shredded chicken
Combine shredded chicken, cabbage, carrot, onion, herbs, and dressing in a large bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 6 · Top the salad with crushed roasted peanuts for added crunch and flavor
Top the salad with crushed roasted peanuts for added crunch and flavor.
Step 7 · Serve immediately on a plate or in a bowl
Serve immediately on a plate or in a bowl. Garnish with extra herbs or chili if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Vietnamese shredded chicken salad is a healthy choice because it uses lean meat, fresh vegetables, and herbs to deliver high protein, low fat, and minimal carbohydrates. The absence of deep-frying and the use of natural flavor enhancers like lime and fish sauce make it ideal for calorie-conscious eaters. Gà Xé Phay also supports digestive health thanks to fiber-rich ingredients and healthy fats. It fits perfectly into balanced diets for weight loss, muscle gain, or general wellness.
A note on tradition
Gà Xé Phay is commonly enjoyed across southern Vietnam, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City, where fresh, vibrant salads are a culinary hallmark. The dish is often served at family gatherings, weddings, and special occasions as a symbol of abundance and health. Its light, refreshing taste makes it ideal for the warm climate and is often paired with steamed rice or rice crackers. Gà Xé Phay showcases Vietnamese traditions of balancing flavors and textures.