Among the myriad of Vietnamese bread recipes, Vietnamese chicken sandwich deserves a top spot on your bucket list. Also known as chicken banh mi or banh mi ga, this distinctive bread variation showcases the quintessence of the S-shaped country's cuisine.

1. Nutrition facts about Vietnamese chicken banh mi

Vietnamese chicken sandwich stands out as one of the most popular Vietnamese breakfast foods, offering not just delightful flavors but also a range of health benefits. Originating from the fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, chicken banh mi consists of a crusty baguette filled with a harmonious blend of ingredients. The fillings can include meats like grilled pork, shredded chicken, or pate, paired with herbs, cucumber, pickled vegetables, mayonnaise, and chili sauce. A Vietnamese chicken baguette typically contains:

Fat: 3.2 grams
Sodium: 491 milligrams
Calcium: 260 milligrams
Potassium: 115 milligrams
Carbohydrate: 49 grams
Magnesium: 25 milligrams
Protein: 9 grams
Nutrients such as iron, vitamin B6

The calories in chicken banh mi also depend on the preparation method, the type of chicken meat, and other accompanying ingredients. On average, a Vietnamese chicken sandwich contains around 300 - 320 calories.

2. Best chicken banh mi recipes for a light and healthy meal

2.1. Vietnamese grilled chicken sandwich

Vietnamese grilled chicken sandwich is among the most popular Vietnamese chicken dishes.

Ingredients for 6 servings of grilled chicken banh mi:

600 grams of boneless chicken meat
6 small baguettes
3 cucumbers, chopped cilantro sprigs, pickled carrots, pickled radishes
1 tsp of fish sauce, 1 tsp of lime juice, 1/4 tsp of salt, 2 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of lime juice, 6 tsp of mayonnaise, 1.5 tsp of cooking oil, 6 tsp of chili sauce

Instructions:

Step 1: Clean the veggies and cut the chicken into small pieces
Step 2: Prepare the marinade:
- Combine the chicken, cooking oil, sugar, salt, pepper, fish sauce, and lime juice in a large bowl
- Cover with plastic wrap and marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes
Step 3: Cook the chicken:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat
- Grill the chicken for 6-10 minutes
- Cool the chicken for 10 minutes
Step 4: Assemble the sandwiches:
- Cut the baguettes halfway open
- Spread the mayonnaise and chili on each exposed side of the baguettes
- Divide the vegetables and chicken among the baguettes
- Heat the chicken banh mi and enjoy

2.2. Fried chicken banh mi

Vietnamese fried chicken sandwich is a perfect combination of delightful flavors and crunchy textures that makes it an unforgettable treat.

Ingredients for 6 servings of fried chicken banh mi:

600 grams of boneless chicken thighs
6 small baguettes
60 grams of breadcrumbs, 60 grams of tempura flour, 3 of eggs
3 cucumbers, 2 onions, 1.5 carrots, 1 ginger, cabbage, chopped cilantro sprigs
3 tsp of soy sauce, 1/4 tsp of salt, 2 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of lime juice, 2 tsp of vinegar, 6 tsp of mayonnaise, 1.5 tsp of cooking oil, 6 tsp of chili sauce

Instructions:

Step 1: Wash the vegetables, cut the cabbage into small strips, shred the carrots, finely chop the onions, ginger, and cilantro.
Step 2: Mix the chopped ginger with soy sauce, lime juice, and vinegar in a small bowl. Stir well. Pour this mixture over the prepared vegetables.
Step 3: Marinate the chicken with salt and pepper for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Dip the chicken in flour first, then in beaten eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs.
Step 5: Deep-fry the chicken until the outer layer turns golden and crispy.
Step 6: Place the chicken on the baguettes, followed by salad, cucumber, mayonnaise, and chili sauce.

2.3. Vietnamese lemongrass chicken - Among the best chicken banh mi recipes

Vietnamese lemongrass chicken distinguishes itself among various flavorful Vietnamese foods. When served with baguettes, it transforms into an irresistibly delicious meal.

Ingredients for 6 servings of Vietnamese lemongrass chicken:

600 grams of boneless chicken thighs

6 small baguettes
3 lemongrass stalks
3 cucumbers, 2 onions, 2 carrots, 1 daikon, chopped cilantro sprigs, garlic
1.5 tsp of fish sauce, 3 tsp of oyster sauce, 2 tsp of sesame oil, 1/4 tsp of salt, 2 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of lime juice, 2 tsp of vinegar, 6 tsp of mayonnaise, 1.5 tsp of cooking oil, 6 tsp of chili sauce

Instructions:

Step 1: Mix julienned carrots and daikon in a large bowl with sugar, salt, vinegar, and sesame oil. Let it rest for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Marinate the chicken with cooking oil, fish sauce, oyster sauce, pepper flakes, sugar, chopped garlic, chopped lemongrass, and lime juice for 1 hour.
Step 3: Heat cooking oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until it is fully cooked, then set aside.
Step 4: To assemble the sandwiches, open up the baguettes and spread the mayonnaise and chili on each side. Fill the baguettes with cooked chicken, pickled vegetables, and herbs then enjoy!

2.4. Shredded chicken banh mi

You should consider the following Western rendition of Vietnamese chicken sandwich to add variety to your palate. It will make a tasty, nutritious breakfast for the entire family.

Ingredients for 6 servings of shredded chicken banh mi:

600 grams of chicken filets
6 small baguettes
500 milliliters of coconut water
2 cucumbers, 1 lettuce, 2 tomatoes, chopped cilantro sprigs, shallots, garlic
2 tsp of fish sauce, 1 tsp of sugar, 1/4 tsp of salt, 2 tsp of black pepper, 6 tsp of mayonnaise, 1.5 tsp of cooking oil, 6 tsp of chili sauce

Instructions:

Step 1: Boil the chicken, then season it with salt, fish sauce, sugar, and ground pepper.
Step 2: Sauté chopped shallots and garlic for fragrance. Add the chicken to the pan and sauté until golden.
Step 3: Pour in coconut water and simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens. Shred the chicken into small pieces
Step 4: Cut the baguettes vertically. Fill them with chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber. Enjoy.

2.5. Chicken satay banh mi

Vietnamese chicken satay sandwich is a unique variation of chicken banh mi with a deliciously spicy taste from the satay sauce.

Ingredients for 6 servings of chicken satay banh mi:

Crusty baguettes
600 grams of chicken
3 tsp of satay
2 cucumbers, ginger, pickled carrots, pickled radishes, cilantro sprigs, shallots, garlic
2 tsp of soy sauce, 1 tsp of salt, 1 tsp of sugar, 1.5 tsp of corn flour, 6 tsp of mayonnaise, 6 tsp of chili sauce

Instructions:

Step 1: Boil the chicken with shallots, salt, and ginger over medium heat for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Wash the vegetables and herbs thoroughly. Finely slice them into small pieces.
Step 3: Make the satay sauce:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of satay oil over medium heat. Sauté shallots and garlic until golden.
- Add sugar, soy sauce, corn flour, and water to the sauce.
- Simmer the sauce until thickened.
Step 4: Assemble the sandwiches:
- Cut the baguettes, leaving a margin at the back.
- Spread mayonnaise and chili sauce on both sides.
- Add thinly sliced cucumber, pickled carrots, and daikon.
- Gently push the chicken off the skewers and spread cilantro on top.

2.6. Vietnamese char siu chicken banh mi

You can refer to the following recipe for a tasty Vietnamese chicken sandwich with char siu, a perfect option for a delightful family breakfast.

Ingredients for 6 servings of Vietnamese chicken sandwich with char siu:

6 small baguettes
600 grams of chicken filet
Five-spice powder, garlic powder
2 cucumbers, pickled carrots, pickled radishes, cilantro sprigs
2 tsp of soy sauce, 1 tsp of fish sauce, 1 tsp of oyster sauce, 1 tsp of sesame oil, 1 tsp of ground pepper, 1 tsp of sugar, 6 tsp of mayonnaise, 6 tsp of chili sauce

Instructions:

Step 1: Mix fish sauce, sesame oil, five-spice powder, garlic powder, ground pepper, oyster sauce, and sugar into a bowl. Add sliced chicken and marinate for 1 hour.
Step 2: Cook the chicken in the sauce for 20 minutes over low heat. Roast the chicken in an air fryer for 20 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius.
Step 3: Assemble the sandwiches:
- Cut the baguettes, leaving a margin at the back.
- Spread mayonnaise and chili sauce on both sides.
- Add thinly sliced cucumber and pickled veggies.
- Spread cilantro on top and enjoy!

Vietnamese chicken sandwich, with its diverse varieties and delightful flavors, holds a special place in the heart of Vietnamese cuisine. This culinary masterpiece blends traditional flavors with modern innovations, creating a savory experience that tantalizes the taste buds. If you have a chance to come to Vietnam, don’t forget to enjoy this wonderful specialty.

Besides chicken banh mi, there are many other must-try dishes that showcase the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Some notable options include Vietnamese pancake, Vietnamese beef noodles, Mi Quang, Vietnamese broken rice, Vietnamese bun, etc. These dishes will take you on a delightful culinary journey, enhancing your overall experience of Vietnam travel.

Besides, the country also offers multiple extraordinary attractions waiting to be discovered. Within its plethora of renowned destinations, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long are absolute must-visits that should not be overlooked.

For an enriching travel experience, you can choose Vinpearl as your accommodation. Located at prime locations, Vinpearl’s hotels and resorts offer top-notch services along with luxurious dining options, spas, gyms, and swimming pools. While indulging in the luxury of Vinpearl, make sure to explore the entertainment paradise of VinWonders, where you can immerse yourself in thrilling games and unique cultural activities.