Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken are a refreshing and healthy dish, perfect for warm-weather meals or light appetizers. Combining tender chicken, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and vermicelli noodles all wrapped in delicate rice paper, these rolls deliver bright flavors and vibrant textures in every bite. Paired with a savory dipping sauce, this dish offers a balance of protein, fiber, and fresh ingredients without feeling heavy or overly rich.
Ingredients
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10–12 rice paper wrappers
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1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
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1 cup cooked vermicelli noodles
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1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
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1 small carrot, julienned
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1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
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1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
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Lettuce leaves, torn into small pieces
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Warm water for softening rice paper
For the Dipping Sauce:
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1/4 cup hoisin sauce
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2 tablespoons peanut butter
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1–2 tablespoons water to thin
Directions
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Prepare all filling ingredients in advance, slicing vegetables and herbs.
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Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, rinse under cold water, and drain well.
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Fill a large bowl with warm water.
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Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for 10–15 seconds until soft and pliable.
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Lay softened rice paper on a clean, flat surface.
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Arrange lettuce, noodles, chicken, cucumber, carrot, and herbs in the center of the wrapper.
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Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly.
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Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
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In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and water until smooth.
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Serve the summer rolls with dipping sauce on the side.
Nutrients
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Calories: 190 kcal per roll (approximate)
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Carbohydrates: 20g
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Protein: 12g
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Fat: 7g
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Fiber: 2g
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken recipe stands out because it represents a perfect fusion of simplicity, nutrition, and flavor. The rolls are made with fresh, vibrant ingredients, unlike store-bought alternatives that may contain preservatives. Each bite delivers a harmonious combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, soft noodles, and fragrant herbs, wrapped in a light rice paper shell. The homemade peanut-hoisin dipping sauce adds depth with its sweet, salty, and nutty notes, creating a complete and satisfying experience.
Another highlight is the versatility of this dish. You can customize the filling to include different proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even just more vegetables for a plant-based option. The fact that these rolls are not fried keeps them lighter and healthier while still packing a ton of flavor. Ideal for a light meal, a snack, or as part of a party platter, these summer rolls never feel heavy or overwhelming.
The Benefits of the Ingredients
The ingredients used in these summer rolls offer a variety of health benefits, making the dish both delicious and nourishing. Starting with chicken, it provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also keeps you feeling full and satisfied, making this dish ideal for those looking to maintain energy levels without consuming excessive calories.
Vermicelli noodles contribute light carbohydrates, offering quick energy. They are easy to digest and, when paired with high-protein ingredients like chicken, help balance out macronutrients in the meal. Rice paper wrappers are naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and ideal for those who prefer lighter alternatives to bread or tortillas.
Fresh herbs such as mint, cilantro, and Thai basil not only elevate the flavor profile but also bring numerous health benefits. Mint aids digestion, cilantro helps detoxify the body, and Thai basil contains antioxidants that support immune health. Vegetables like cucumber, carrot, and lettuce provide fiber, which is crucial for healthy digestion, along with vitamins A and C that boost skin and immune health.
The dipping sauce, though indulgent with peanut butter, offers healthy fats and essential nutrients. Hoisin sauce and soy sauce contribute flavor depth while keeping the calorie count reasonable. By preparing these rolls at home, you have full control over sodium and sugar content, ensuring a healthier dish overall.
Cooking Tips
To ensure success with Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken, there are several helpful tips that can make a noticeable difference. First, focus on ingredient preparation. It’s important to slice vegetables uniformly thin so they fit well inside the rolls without causing tears or uneven shapes. Lay all your ingredients out before you begin rolling to make the process smooth and efficient.
When working with rice paper wrappers, be careful not to soak them too long in warm water. Around 10–15 seconds is enough to make them pliable. Over-soaking can make the wrappers sticky and difficult to handle. Place the soaked wrapper on a slightly damp cutting board or clean surface to prevent sticking.
Rolling technique also matters. Begin by placing your fillings in the lower third of the wrapper, then fold the bottom over the fillings, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly away from you. Keeping the rolls tight ensures they hold together well and look neat.
For the dipping sauce, adjust consistency by adding more or less water as needed. If you enjoy spicy flavors, adding a small amount of chili sauce or finely chopped chili peppers can bring extra heat. Additionally, making the sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
If you plan to make these rolls ahead of time, store them wrapped in plastic wrap with a damp paper towel inside an airtight container. This helps prevent the rice paper from drying out. However, for the best texture and taste, enjoy them within a few hours of assembly.
Serving Suggestions
Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken can be served in a variety of settings, from casual family dinners to elegant party platters. Arrange them on a large serving plate with dipping sauce in the center, garnished with extra herbs or lime wedges for a fresh presentation.
As an appetizer, these rolls pair well with other light Vietnamese dishes such as pho, grilled skewers, or cucumber salad. For a full meal, consider serving them alongside steamed jasmine rice or a light noodle dish. A selection of dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce, soy-based dressings, and spicy peanut sauce, can enhance the variety and cater to different tastes.
When hosting a gathering, creating a DIY summer roll station can be a fun activity. Set out all the prepared ingredients and let guests assemble their own rolls according to their preferences. This interactive setup adds a social element to mealtime and ensures everyone gets exactly what they like.
Beverage pairings for these rolls include iced green tea, fresh coconut water, or light cocktails such as mojitos or white sangria. These drinks complement the fresh, herbal flavors without overpowering them.
Conclusion
Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken are a standout recipe for anyone seeking a combination of flavor, health benefits, and visual appeal. Their balance of lean protein, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper makes them both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a healthy appetizer, or a party-friendly snack, these summer rolls fit the bill.
The recipe’s adaptability is another strength, allowing home cooks to tailor it to dietary preferences and ingredient availability. From swapping proteins to adjusting the herbs and vegetables used, the options are nearly endless. Making these rolls at home also ensures higher quality ingredients and control over flavor balance.
Overall, Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken represent everything great about light, fresh cooking. They’re easy to make, impressive to serve, and always enjoyable to eat. By incorporating this dish into your cooking routine, you’ll not only expand your culinary skills but also bring a touch of vibrant, nutritious variety to your meals.