If there’s one ingredient that never fails to show up in Vietnamese kitchens, it’s chicken (gà). From quick stir-fries to soul-soothing noodle soups, chicken takes on so many delicious forms in Vietnamese cooking.
I’ve rounded up 13 of my favorite Vietnamese chicken recipes—some are everyday comfort foods, others are festive or street-food inspired. Each one brings its own flavor story, and I promise they’re all doable at home.
1. Gà Xào Sả Ớt (Spicy Lemongrass Chicken)
Gà Xào Sả Ớt is a true rice thief—spicy, aromatic, and full of lemongrass flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes you unconsciously reach for a second (or third) serving of rice.
2. Gà Rô Ti (Vietnamese Chicken in Coconut Water Glaze)
Straight from the Mekong Delta, Gà Rô Ti is comfort food at its finest. The chicken is simmered in coconut water until the sauce becomes rich, glossy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and savory.
3. Cà Ri Gà (Vietnamese Chicken Curry)
Rich and fragrant, this Vietnamese chicken curry is comfort in a bowl. Simmered with coconut milk, lemongrass, potatoes, and carrots, it’s best enjoyed with a crusty bánh mì to soak up the luscious sauce.
4. Gà Kho Gừng (Caramelized Ginger Chicken)
An everyday favorite: tender chicken braised in a savory-sweet caramel sauce with plenty of ginger. Gà Kho Gừng is comforting, quick, and deeply flavorful.
5. Cơm Gà Hải Nam (Vietnamese-style Hainan Chicken Rice)
Succulent poached chicken, fragrant rice, and a special zesty ginger fish sauce—Cơm Gà Hải Nam, Vietnam’s take on Hainanese chicken rice, has its own charm and flavors you’ll love.
6. Instant Pot Phở Gà (Hanoi-style Chicken Phở)
If you love beef phở, you have to try this Instant Pot Chicken Pho version. Delicate, fragrant, and much quicker to prepare. Don’t forget pickled garlic and crispy crullers (quẩy) on the side!
7. Mì Quảng (Turmeric Noodle Soup from Quảng Nam)
Mì Quảng, the vibrant noodle dish from Central Vietnam is often made with chicken or pork. The broth is rich but not overwhelming, and it’s topped with fresh herbs, roasted peanuts, and crispy rice crackers.
8. Bún Gà Nướng (Lemongrass Chicken Vermicelli)
Think of this as the chicken version of Bún Thịt Nướng. Grilled lemongrass chicken served over noodles with Đồ Chua (pickled veggies), scallion oil, and a tangy Nước Chấm dipping sauce. Bún Gà Nướng is a whole bowl of freshness and flavor.
9. Phở Gà Trộn (Dry Phở Noodle Salad with Chicken)
All the flavors of chicken phở, but without the soup. Phở Gà Trộn is refreshing, light, and perfect for hot summer days.
10. Gỏi Gà (Vietnamese Chicken Salad, No Fish Sauce)
This Central Vietnamese-style chicken salad is bold, tangy, and refreshing. Instead of fish sauce, this Gỏi Gà is dressed with lime and black pepper salt—making it a perfect light meal or side dish.
11. Gỏi Cuốn Gà (Spring Rolls with Chicken & Avocado)
Light, fresh, and wholesome—these chicken spring rolls are packed with chicken, creamy avocado, and crisp veggies. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light lunch.
12. Gà Nướng (Vietnamese 5-Spice Roast Chicken)
Juicy, golden, and infused with five-spice, this Vietnamese roast chicken is simple but incredibly satisfying. I like to use Cornish game hens here—they cook faster and are just the right size for two.
13. Air Fryer Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings
Indulge in guilt-free finger-licking goodness with these Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings. With their tender meat, crispy crust, and irresistible fish sauce glaze, they’re a low-fat, low-calorie treat you won’t be able to resist.
