Vietnamese Chicken Salad with Noodles (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Salad

01 - 6 oz thin rice noodles
02 - 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (poached or rotisserie)
03 - 1 cup shredded carrots
04 - 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
05 - 1 cup shredded Napa cabbage or romaine
06 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
07 - 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
08 - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
09 - 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion or scallions
10 - 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional)

→ For the Dressing

11 - 3 tablespoons fish sauce
12 - 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
13 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
14 - 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
15 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
16 - 1 Thai chili or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
17 - 2 tablespoons water

# Instructions:

01 - Prepare noodles according to package instructions. Rinse under cold water and drain well. Set aside.
02 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, chili (if using), and water. Taste and adjust seasoning.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine noodles, chicken, carrots, cucumber, cabbage, herbs, and onion. Pour dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
04 - Top with chopped peanuts and serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for extra flavor.

# Notes:

01 - For a vegetarian version, swap chicken with baked tofu and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
02 - Make ahead: Salad can be prepped in advance, but add herbs and dressing just before serving for the freshest flavor.
03 - Add extra lime or chili if you love bold flavor.