Chicken Vermicelli Noodles Recipe: A Delicious Asian Delight

Looking for a mouthwatering Chicken Vermicelli Noodles recipe? Look no further! This authentic Asian dish is packed with flavors and is quick and easy to prepare. Follow our step-by-step guide and tantalize your taste buds with this delectable recipe.

Are you a fan of Asian cuisine? If so, you're in for a treat! Chicken Vermicelli Noodles, also known as "Bun Ga Nuong," is a popular dish in many Asian countries. It combines tender grilled chicken, delicate rice vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing, creating a harmonious explosion of flavors. In this article, we'll take you through the process of preparing this delightful dish, step by step. So, tie your apron, grab your chopsticks, and let's dive into the world of Chicken Vermicelli Noodles!

Chicken Vermicelli Noodles is a classic Asian dish consisting of grilled chicken served over a bed of rice vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing. It's a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. The dish is often enjoyed as a light and refreshing meal, perfect for warm summer days.

2. Ingredients for Chicken Vermicelli Noodles

To make Chicken Vermicelli Noodles, you'll need the following ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
200 grams rice vermicelli noodles
1 cucumber, julienned
1 carrot, julienned
1 cup fresh bean sprouts
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
Lime wedges, for serving

For the marinade:

2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the dressing:

2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 Thai chili, minced (optional)

3. Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is crucial to infuse it with flavor and ensure it remains juicy when grilled. Here's how to do it:

In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, and vegetable oil.
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and place them in the marinade.
Mix well, ensuring each piece is coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Step 2: Grilling the Chicken

Grilling the chicken adds a smoky and charred flavor to the dish. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly grilled chicken:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
Thread the chicken strips onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred.
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and set them aside to cool slightly.

5. Step 3: Preparing the Rice Vermicelli Noodles

Rice vermicelli noodles are a key component of Chicken Vermicelli Noodles. Here's how to prepare them:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add the rice vermicelli noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes.
Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.
Toss the noodles with a little vegetable oil to keep them moist and set them aside.

6. Step 4: Assembling the Chicken Vermicelli Noodles

Now it's time to put all the components together and create a visually appealing and delicious dish. Follow these steps:

In individual serving bowls or plates, place a generous portion of the cooked rice vermicelli noodles.
Arrange the grilled chicken strips on top of the noodles.
Scatter the julienned cucumber, carrot, fresh bean sprouts, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves over the chicken.
Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top for an added crunch.
Serve the Chicken Vermicelli Noodles with lime wedges on the side.

7. Step 5: Making the Dressing

The dressing is the finishing touch that brings all the flavors together. Here's how to make the tangy dressing for Chicken Vermicelli Noodles:

In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and minced Thai chili (if desired).
Taste the dressing and adjust the flavors according to your preference. You can add more lime juice for acidity or more sugar for sweetness.
Set the dressing aside until you're ready to serve.

8. FAQs

8.1 Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Certainly! While the traditional recipe calls for chicken, you can experiment with other proteins such as shrimp, beef, or tofu to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.

8.2 Can I make the dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and substitute it with tofu or your favorite meat substitute. You can also load the dish with an array of fresh vegetables to enhance the flavors and textures.

8.3 How can I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled chicken, noodles, and vegetables can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days. However, it's best to consume them fresh for optimal taste and texture.

8.4 Is it possible to substitute the rice vermicelli noodles?

Yes, if you can't find rice vermicelli noodles, you can use other types of Asian noodles like

egg noodles or glass noodles as a substitute. Keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.

8.5 Can I adjust the spiciness of the dressing?

Absolutely! The spiciness of the dressing can be customized to your liking. If you prefer a milder version, omit the Thai chili or reduce the amount used. For those who enjoy a fiery kick, add extra minced Thai chili or even a sprinkle of chili flakes.

8.6 What are some variations of Chicken Vermicelli Noodles?

Chicken Vermicelli Noodles is a versatile dish that can be personalized with various additions and modifications. Some popular variations include adding grilled lemongrass-marinated pork, including pickled daikon and carrots for extra tang, or incorporating fresh herbs like Thai basil or Vietnamese perilla leaves for a unique twist.