How to Make Gỏi Gà (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Gỏi Gà, also known as Vietnamese Chicken Salad, is a beloved dish in Vietnam celebrated for its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and refreshing crunch. Traditionally enjoyed across the country, especially in southern regions, Gỏi Gà is a staple at family gatherings, festive occasions, and everyday meals. This healthy Vietnamese salad brings together tender shredded chicken, crisp vegetables like cabbage and carrots, fresh herbs such as mint and cilantro, and a zesty lime-based dressing, creating a harmonious balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Gỏi Gà showcases the Vietnamese culinary philosophy of balancing textures and flavors while using minimal oil and maximizing nutrition. The dish is light yet satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a wholesome, low-calorie meal. It’s often served as a starter or a light main course, especially in warmer months when fresh, cooling dishes are preferred. Whether you are new to Vietnamese cuisine or a longtime fan, Gỏi Gà offers global appeal through its simplicity, bold taste, and adaptability to health-conscious diets.
Ingredients
- 200g Skinless chicken breast (Thịt gà)
- 1 cup, thinly shredded Green cabbage (Bắp cải xanh)
- 1 medium, julienned Carrot (Cà rốt)
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh mint leaves (Húng lủi)
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh cilantro (Ngò rí)
- 1/4 small, thinly sliced Onion (Hành tây)
- 2 tbsp, crushed Roasted peanuts (Đậu phộng rang)
- 1 small, finely sliced Red chili (Ớt đỏ)
- 2 tbsp Lime juice (Nước cốt chanh)
- 1.5 tbsp Fish sauce (Nước mắm)
- 1 tsp Sugar (Đường)
- 1/4 tsp Salt (Muối)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Boil the chicken breast in lightly salted water for about 15 minute...
Boil the chicken breast in lightly salted water for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Let it cool, then shred using your hands or two forks.
Step 2 · Prepare the vegetables by finely shredding the cabbage
Prepare the vegetables by finely shredding the cabbage, julienning the carrot, and thinly slicing the onion.
Step 3 · Mix the dressing by combining lime juice
Mix the dressing by combining lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
Step 4 · In a large bowl
In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrot, onion, mint, and cilantro. Drizzle the dressing over and mix thoroughly to ensure even coating.
Step 5 · Top the salad with crushed roasted peanuts and sliced chili (if usi...
Top the salad with crushed roasted peanuts and sliced chili (if using) just before serving.
Step 6 · Serve immediately at room temperature or lightly chilled for optima...
Serve immediately at room temperature or lightly chilled for optimal freshness.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Vietnamese chicken salad is a healthy choice because it uses lean proteins and a plentiful array of raw vegetables, delivering nutrients without excess calories or unhealthy fats. The inclusion of fresh herbs enhances antioxidants, while the dressing is lighter than creamy alternatives, making it ideal for calorie-conscious eaters and those seeking a balanced, wholesome meal.
A note on tradition
Gỏi Gà is a classic Vietnamese salad with deep roots in southern and central Vietnam, often served at family celebrations, Tet holiday gatherings, and as a cooling dish during hot weather. It reflects the Vietnamese tradition of balancing flavors and textures and showcases the resourcefulness of using simple, fresh ingredients to create something truly special.