25-Minute Goi Ga – A Healthy Twist on Vietnamese Chicken Salad

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something refreshingly vibrant about a bowl of Goi Ga, or Vietnamese Chicken Salad, that instantly brightens my day. The moment you toss together the tender shredded chicken, crisp cabbage, and a medley of fresh herbs, the kitchen is filled with tantalizing aromas and colors that make it impossible not to smile. With just 25 minutes standing between you and a satisfying meal, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when the last thing you want is another round of takeout.

Imagine the crunch of cabbage against the savory sweetness of carrots, all brought together with a zesty nuoc cham dressing that dances on your taste buds. Whether you re enjoying it as a standalone dish or as a delightful side to your favorite grilled meats, this healthy, gluten-free, and low-carb salad is easily customizable to suit your cravings or dietary needs. Ready to awaken your palate? Let s dive into this quick and delicious recipe that s sure to become a new staple in your kitchen!

Why is Goi Ga your new favorite salad?

Quick preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a fresh, flavorful meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy choice: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich veggies, this salad is both low-carb and gluten-free, making it a guilt-free delight.
Flavor explosion: The vibrant combination of nuoc cham dressing, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables creates a delightful taste experience that s far from boring fast food.
Easy customization: With simple substitutions like rotisserie chicken or shredded zucchini, you can adapt this dish to fit your dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether served as a light dinner or a side at gatherings, this salad is sure to impress friends and family alike!

Goi Ga Ingredients

Prepare for a vibrant salad experience!

For the Salad

• Chicken Breast A lean protein that shreds easily; using rotisserie chicken can save you time.
• Cabbage Adds a satisfying crunch; feel free to choose green or purple cabbage based on your preference.
• Carrot Brings sweetness and a pop of color; swap with shredded zucchini for a lower-carb option.
• Red Onion Provides depth and a hint of sharpness; try green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
• Vietnamese Coriander (Rau Ram) Delivers an authentic flavor; use fresh mint if you can t find this herb.
• Fried Shallots Adds a delightful crunch and umami richness; toasted peanuts can be a tasty substitute.

For the Dressing

• Vietnamese Dipping Sauce (Nuoc Cham) This tangy-sweet dressing is essential for flavor; consider making it homemade for an extra touch!

How to Make Goi Ga

1. Boil the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, until fully cooked and tender. Shred the chicken and set aside.

2. Prep the Veggies: While the chicken is cooking, shred the cabbage and carrots. Slice the red onion thinly and mince the Vietnamese coriander, bringing all those vibrant colors together.

3. Assemble the Salad: On a large serving plate, layer shredded cabbage as your base. Top it with the colorful shredded carrots, sliced red onion, and minced Vietnamese coriander.

4. Add Chicken & Crunch: Scatter the shredded chicken evenly over the vibrant veggie base, then sprinkle the fried shallots on top for that irresistible crunch.

5. Dress It Up: Drizzle the nuoc cham dressing generously over your salad, gently mix to combine all those delicious flavors, and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Optional: For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for zesty brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Goi Ga?

A delightful bowl of fresh Goi Ga is just the beginning of your culinary adventure. Pairing this vibrant salad with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant and fluffy addition that complements the salad s vibrant flavors while absorbing the delicious nuoc cham dressing.
• Grilled Lemongrass Chicken: This dish mirrors the salad s fresh vibe and adds a smoky depth that rounds out the meal perfectly.
• Crispy Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy, spring rolls bring a satisfying contrast to the lush textures of Goi Ga while enhancing the Vietnamese flair.
• Vietnamese Pho: Enjoy a steaming bowl of pho on the side to embrace a complete, traditional Vietnamese dining experience full of warmth and flavor.
• Fresh Herb Rice Paper Rolls: These light rolls offer a refreshing touch and make use of similar ingredients, creating a harmonious, herbaceous theme throughout your meal.
• Chilled Coconut Water: A light and hydrating drink that invigorates with a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing the salad s tangy notes.
• Mango Sorbet: For dessert, this refreshing treat serves as a sweet finale, cool enough to cleanse the palate after the spicy notes of your meal.

Let these pairings transform your refreshing Goi Ga into a full feast that will have your taste buds dancing!

Goi Ga Variations

Embrace your creativity and tailor this delicious salad to match your taste buds and dietary needs!

• Dairy-Free: Use a homemade or store-bought dairy-free dressing instead of nuoc cham for a creamy twist without lactose.
• Low-Carb: Swap the carrots for thinly sliced radishes or additional cabbage to keep it extra light and low in carbs.
• Herbaceous Boost: Mix in fresh basil or cilantro along with the Vietnamese coriander for an aromatic explosion that delights the senses.
• Nutty Flavor: Replace fried shallots with toasted sesame seeds for an added nutty crunch and flavor contrast.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes right into the dressing for a delightful heat level.
• Crispy Topping: Instead of fried shallots, opt for crispy chickpeas or baked tofu for a protein-packed alternative that s still satisfying.
• Sweet Twist: Add sliced apples or pears for a refreshing hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory elements.
• Texture Play: Incorporate crunchy bean sprouts or shredded Brussels sprouts for an exciting texture that keeps every bite interesting.

Make Ahead Options

These 25-Minute Goi Ga preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply boil and shred the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shred the cabbage and carrots, slice the onion, and mince the Vietnamese coriander, keeping them separate in containers to maintain freshness. The nuoc cham dressing can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, just combine everything on a plate, drizzle with dressing, and mix gently for a delicious, stress-free meal that tastes as vibrant as if it were freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Goi Ga

Fridge: Keep any leftover Goi Ga in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Separate Dressing: To maintain crispness, store the nuoc cham dressing separately until you re ready to serve.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the vegetables will lose their delightful texture and freshness.

Reheating: If you have leftover shredded chicken, feel free to reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before adding it to your salad.

Expert Tips for Goi Ga

• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (75 °C) to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.

• Flavor Infusion: Let the salad sit for 10 minutes after mixing; this is key for allowing the dressing to fully soak into the ingredients, enhancing the flavors.

• Essential Toppings: Don t skip the fried shallots; they provide a unique texture and depth of flavor that balances the freshness of Goi Ga.

• Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh Vietnamese coriander for the most authentic taste. If unavailable, fresh mint is a great substitute but will slightly alter the flavor profile.

• Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap veggies; remember, adding sliced bell peppers or cucumbers can add extra freshness and crunch without impacting the salad s healthiness.

25-Minute Goi Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Salad) Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for Goi Ga?
Absolutely! Always opt for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. Look for breasts that are plump and have a consistent pink color without dark spots. If you re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that can be just as delicious!

How should I store leftover Goi Ga?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispness of the vegetables, make sure to store the nuoc cham dressing separately until you re ready to enjoy the salad again.

Can I freeze Goi Ga?
Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended for this salad. While the shredded chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, the vegetables will lose their freshness and crunch when thawed. Instead, prepare the salad fresh to enjoy the delightful textures and flavors!

What can I do if my salad is too watery?
If your Goi Ga turns out watery, it s likely due to excess moisture from the vegetables. I recommend patting down any freshly shredded cabbage or carrots with a paper towel before assembling the salad. Additionally, letting the salad sit for 10 minutes after dressing allows excess moisture to drain away.

Are there any dietary considerations for Goi Ga?
Certainly! This salad is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. However, if you have allergies, be cautious with fried shallots and consider substituting with toasted peanuts, which are also nut-friendly. Always double-check label ingredients when using store-bought nuoc cham for allergens.

Can I customize the vegetables in Goi Ga?
Yes, the more the merrier! You can easily customize this salad to fit your tastes or what s in your fridge. Consider adding sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even radishes for a crunchy twist. Just remember to keep each addition balanced with the rest of the ingredients for an amazing flavor profile!