Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken

Introduction

Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken are the ultimate light, fresh, and vibrant dish, perfect for a warm day or whenever you crave something refreshing. These delicate rice paper rolls are packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all wrapped up in soft, chewy rice paper. With each bite, you experience a wonderful balance of textures—from the crunch of the veggies to the smoothness of the chicken—perfectly complemented by a tangy dipping sauce. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or even a light meal, they’re sure to impress.

The first time I made these summer rolls, I was amazed at how easy it was to assemble such a flavorful dish. Soaking the rice paper just long enough to make it pliable, then filling it with fresh ingredients, felt like creating little bundles of joy. The vibrant colors of the herbs, chicken, and veggies all shining through the transparent rice paper made the rolls as beautiful as they were delicious.

What I love most about Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken is how versatile they are. You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef, and mix up the veggies to suit your taste. The dipping sauce can be customized with a bit of chili for heat or extra lime for zing. No matter how you prepare them, these rolls are a light, refreshing way to experience the bright flavors of Vietnam in every bite.

Perfect for:

• Light lunches
• Summer gatherings
• Party appetizers
• Meal prep
• Health-conscious eaters

Why You’ll Love This Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken Recipe

Here’s why Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken will become a favorite in your recipe collection:

• Fresh and Light: Packed with vegetables and herbs, these rolls are light but satisfying, making them perfect for warm days or a healthy snack.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the fillings to your liking, swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu.
• No Cooking Required: There’s no need for heat or cooking—just a quick assembly of fresh ingredients.
• Healthy and Nutritious: These rolls are low in calories and packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins from the vegetables and herbs.
• Dipping Sauce: The rolls are served with a sweet, savory peanut or hoisin dipping sauce that takes them to the next level.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Assembly Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories (1 roll)
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 8-10 rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup rice vermicelli noodles (optional)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (for cooking the chicken)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Rice Paper Wrappers: These translucent, thin wrappers are what make the rolls easy to wrap and hold all the fresh ingredients together.
• Shredded Chicken: Tender and flavorful, the chicken is the protein base for the rolls.
• Fresh Herbs: The cilantro, mint, and basil add a burst of fresh, aromatic flavors.
• Rice Vermicelli Noodles (optional): These delicate noodles add a satisfying texture to the rolls but can be omitted if you prefer a lighter version.
• Crunchy Vegetables: The shredded lettuce, carrot, and cucumber bring both crunch and vibrant color to the rolls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Cook the Chicken: If not already cooked, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked through. Let it cool slightly before shredding with two forks.

Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs:

2. Julienne the Vegetables: Peel and julienne the carrot and cucumber into thin strips. Shred the lettuce or cabbage into small pieces.
3. Prep the Fresh Herbs: Pick and roughly chop the cilantro, mint, and basil leaves.

Assemble the Rolls:

4. Soak the Rice Paper: Fill a large bowl with warm water. One at a time, dip a rice paper wrapper into the water for about 5-10 seconds until it becomes soft and pliable.
5. Fill the Rolls: Lay the soaked rice paper flat on a clean, damp towel or cutting board. In the center of the wrapper, place a small handful of shredded lettuce, carrot, cucumber, herbs, and a generous portion of shredded chicken. Optionally, add a small amount of rice vermicelli noodles for extra texture.
6. Wrap the Rolls: Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then fold up the bottom and roll tightly, sealing the top of the rice paper to secure the ingredients inside.

Serve with Dipping Sauce:

7. Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a bit of water to create a smooth, slightly sweet dipping sauce. Adjust the thickness by adding more water if necessary.
8. Serve the Rolls: Serve the summer rolls fresh with the dipping sauce on the side for dipping.

How to Serve Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken

• As an Appetizer: Serve these rolls on a platter with dipping sauce for a light, refreshing start to your meal.
• As a Main Course: Enjoy 3-4 rolls per person for a satisfying, healthy meal.
• For Meal Prep: Store the assembled rolls in an airtight container, with parchment paper between layers, for up to 2 days.

Additional Tips for Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken

• Soak Rice Paper Briefly: Be sure not to soak the rice paper too long, as it can tear. Only soak it until it’s just soft enough to roll.
• Customize the Fillings: Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or other protein options.
• Use Cold Water for the Wrappers: If you want a bit more control when rolling, use cooler water to soak the rice paper.
• Freshness is Key: Make these rolls just before serving to enjoy them at their freshest.
• Wrap Tightly: Make sure to wrap the rolls tightly enough to hold everything together but not so tight that the rice paper tears.

Recipe Variations for Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken

Here are 10 variations you can try for Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken:

1. Shrimp Summer Rolls: Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
2. Tofu Summer Rolls: Use fried or grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.
3. Spicy Chicken Rolls: Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to the filling for a spicy kick.
4. Mango Chicken Rolls: Add thinly sliced mango for a sweet, tropical twist.
5. Avocado Rolls: Incorporate ripe avocado slices for creaminess.
6. Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce: Use a spicy peanut sauce made with peanut butter, hoisin, soy sauce, and chili paste for a flavorful dip.
7. Crispy Chicken Rolls: Use crispy fried chicken instead of shredded chicken for added crunch.
8. Vegan Summer Rolls: Substitute the chicken with shredded carrots, cucumbers, and avocado for a fully vegan roll.
9. Pineapple Chicken Rolls: Add small chunks of pineapple for a sweet and savory combination.
10. Cucumber-Only Rolls: For a refreshing and lighter option, make cucumber-only rolls with just rice vermicelli and herbs.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Summer rolls can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze them before they are assembled. Wrap individual ingredients separately, and then assemble and roll after thawing.
• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They are best eaten fresh but will last a little longer if kept sealed.

Special Equipment for Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken

• Large Mixing Bowls
• Sharp Knife for Julienne Vegetables
• Large Shallow Dish for Soaking Rice Paper
• Damp Towel for Rolling the Wrappers

FAQ for Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken

1. Can I use regular noodles instead of rice vermicelli? Yes, you can substitute with thin rice noodles or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb version.
2. How do I keep the rice paper from sticking? Make sure to use a damp towel to place the rolls on, which will prevent the rice paper from sticking.
3. Can I make these rolls ahead of time? These rolls are best made fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.
4. Can I make the dipping sauce in advance? Yes, the dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
5. Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly as a shortcut for shredded chicken in the rolls.

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Conclusion

Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken are a fresh, healthy, and delicious choice for a light meal or appetizer. These rolls are packed with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken, all wrapped in delicate rice paper for a satisfying crunch with every bite. They’re a refreshing alternative to fried snacks, offering vibrant flavors and a crisp texture that’s perfect for any occasion.

Easy to prepare and versatile, these summer rolls are great for gatherings, meal prep, or just a quick and wholesome bite at home. Don’t forget to pair them with a tangy dipping sauce—it adds the perfect balance of flavor to complete the dish.

I can’t wait to see your summer roll creations! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your take on this recipe. Don’t forget to share your own variations or dipping sauce tips in the comments. Happy rolling!