Introduction

The Chicken Banh Mi is a delicious Vietnamese sandwich that combines an array of flavors and textures. This culinary delight features marinated chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a signature sauce, all housed within a crispy baguette. With its vibrant ingredients and satisfying crunch, this sandwich is a fusion of taste that is both refreshing and hearty, making it a popular choice for lunch or dinner.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breast: 500 grams
– Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
– Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon
– Honey: 1 tablespoon
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
– Baguettes: 4 pieces
– Cucumber: 1, sliced thin
– Carrot: 1, julienned
– Daikon radish: 100 grams, julienned
– Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup
– Mayonnaise: 4 tablespoons
– Sriracha sauce: 2 tablespoons

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and pepper for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the fridge.

Cook the Chicken:

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Let them rest before slicing.

Make the Pickled Vegetables:

Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a bowl until dissolved. Add julienned carrots and daikon radish. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop.

Prepare the Sauce:

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice. Mix well until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the Banh Mi:

Slice the baguette in half lengthwise, without cutting all the way through. Spread the prepared sauce on both sides of the bread. Layer on the sliced chicken, pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, and fresh herbs like cilantro and mint.

Finish and Serve:

Close the sandwich gently and slice it in half to serve. Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwich!

Notes

Chicken Variations:

Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast or pork, depending on your preference.

Vegetable Options:

You can add other veggies to your Banh Mi, such as sliced jalapeños or avocado, for added flavor and texture.

Herb Choices:

Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and basil enhance the flavor profile; choose based on your taste preference.

Storage Tips:

Assembled sandwiches are best served fresh. However, you can store the marinated chicken and pickled vegetables in the fridge for a few days if made in advance.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with extra sriracha on the side and a simple salad for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Marinating

To enhance the flavor of the chicken, marinate it for at least an hour. This allows the spices and seasonings to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Grilling

Grill the marinated chicken until it reaches the right level of char and doneness. This technique adds a smoky flavor and creates a nice texture on the outside.

Quick Pickling

Create a quick pickle for the vegetables to add a tangy crunch to the sandwich. This involves soaking julienned carrots and daikon in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt for a short period, which brightens their flavors.

Assembling

Layer the grilled chicken, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and condiments in a crusty baguette. This assembly method enhances the texture and creates a balanced bite.

Toasting

Toast the assembled sandwich briefly in a pan or sandwich press to warm the ingredients and crisp up the bread, improving the overall eating experience.

FAQ

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork, tofu, or beef, adjusting the marinating and cooking times as necessary.

How do I make the baguette crispy?

To achieve a crispy baguette, you can lightly toast it in the oven or grill it briefly before assembling the sandwich.

What’s a good substitute for daikon?

If you can’t find daikon, you can use radishes or even cucumber as a substitute for the pickled vegetables.

Can I prepare the pickled vegetables ahead of time?

Yes, the pickled vegetables can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.

What herbs should I use?

Common herbs used in banh mi include cilantro and mint, but you can use other fresh herbs according to your preferences.

Conclusion

The Chicken Banh Mi is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that brings the essence of Vietnamese street food to your kitchen. With its tender marinated chicken, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs nestled in a crunchy baguette, this sandwich is not just a meal, but a taste experience. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, it serves as a reminder of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant tastes and make this delicious sandwich a staple in your culinary repertoire.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Banh Mi

Swap out the chicken for marinated tofu or tempeh to create a hearty yet plant-based sandwich. Add layers of pickled vegetables and fresh herbs for a satisfying meal.

Pork Banh Mi

Use succulent, slow-cooked pork or grilled pork belly as the protein base for your Banh Mi, adding a smoky richness that complements the fresh toppings beautifully.

Fish Banh Mi

Explore a different protein with grilled or fried fish, such as tilapia or mackerel, topped with spicy mayo, pickled daikon, and carrot for a twist on the classic.

Spicy Chicken Banh Mi

Add a kick by incorporating sriracha or chili paste into the marinade for the chicken, and include sliced jalapeños for extra heat to your sandwich.

Banh Mi Salad

Transform the elements of the Banh Mi into a refreshing salad by combining shredded chicken with mixed greens, pickled vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a lighter option.

Banh Mi Wrap

For a portable option, use rice paper or tortilla wraps filled with the traditional ingredients for a handheld delight that’s perfect for on-the-go meals.