Vietnamese Vermicelli Noodle Bowl with Chicken

Vermicelli bowl with lemongrass chicken and other toppings and nuoc cham on the side.

5 from 4 votes

Vietnamese Vermicelli Noodle Bowl with Chicken

This vermicelli bowl is beautifully balanced with sweet and tangy flavors. Don't let the list of ingredients intimidate you, they all tie together in a symphony for textures and flavors

Prep Time15

Cook Time10

Marinating Time (Inactive):1

Total Time25

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Vietnamese

Servings: servings

Calories: 636kcal

Author: Mikha S.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

2 stalks lemongrass* white parts only, minced (see notes below)
3 garlic cloves minced
3 1/2 tablespoons white sugar
2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon neutral oil*
1 - 3 Thai chilies* thinly sliced, adjust to spice level
1 pound skinless boneless chicken thigh

Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce

1 cup hot water
3 tablespoons white sugar
3 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons white vinegar
4 garlic cloves minced
1-2 Thai chili thinly sliced, adjust to your spice level

Vermicelli Bowl

12 oz thin dried vermicelli rice noodles
2 cucumbers julienned, seeds removed optional
2 carrots julienned or shredded
4 cups lettuce shredded
3 cups bean sprouts optional
handful mint leaves optional
handful cilantro leaves optional
handful basil leaves optional

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate & Cook Lemongrass Chicken

In a food processor or mortar and pestle (see notes), grind together the marinade ingredients.
Transfer to a large ziplock or airthight container, then stir in the remaining marinade ingredients until the sugar has dissolved. Coat the chicken well in the marinade and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour up to overnight
Cook in the air fryer at 400 degrees F for 7 - 10 minutes or until cooked through. Cooking time may slightly vary depending on the thickness of the chicken. (You can also check above for alternative cooking methods.)

Step 2: Make Nuoc Cham Sauce & Noodles

In a bowl, combine the hot water and sugar until it's dissolved. Add the remaining ingredients, then set aside to cool.
Cook vermicelli rice noodles according to the packaging's instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble Vermicelli Salad Bowls

Assemble your vermicelli bowl by placing noodles at the bottom of the bowl. If noodles are stuck together, run them through cold water to easily separate them. Layer on veggies, sliced lemongrass chicken, and herbs (if using). When you're ready to serve, drizzle on some Nuoc Cham sauce. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass from Asian markets works best. Peel and mince the white part of the stalk for the marinade.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
- Grill: Char with smoky flavor. Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Skillet / Cast Iron: Caramelize chicken on medium heat for about 7 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven: Broil chicken on top rack for even browning, focusing on one side.
Time-Saving Swaps: Use rotisserie chicken and pre-cut veggies. Customize vermicelli bowls with leftover vegetables.
Storage: Keep leftovers separate to avoid sogginess. Store noodles, veggies, and sauce separately.

Nutrition