Authentic Vietnamese Chicken Banh Mi: A Street Food Sensation in Your Kitchen

Authentic Vietnamese Chicken Banh Mi Sandwich

Discover the perfect banh mi sandwich that brings the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese street food right to your kitchen. This delicious sandwich features tender marinated chicken, tangy quick-pickled vegetables, and a creamy sriracha mayo all tucked into a crispy baguette for that authentic experience everyone loves.

What Makes a Perfect Banh Mi Sandwich?

The banh mi is Vietnam’s most famous culinary export, combining French colonial influence (the baguette) with Vietnamese ingredients and flavors. What sets this sandwich apart is the perfect balance of textures and tastes: crispy bread, savory protein, tangy pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a touch of heat from jalapeños or sriracha.

Key Ingredients for an Authentic Banh Mi

For the Quick-Pickled Vegetables:

• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup julienned carrots
• 1 cup julienned daikon radish
• 1/2 small cucumber, julienned

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste (or finely minced lemongrass)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sriracha Mayo:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1-2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil

For Assembly:

• 2 Vietnamese baguettes or French baguettes (about 8-10 inches each)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

How to Make the Perfect Banh Mi Sandwich

1. Prepare the Quick-Pickled Vegetables

   In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Place the julienned carrots, daikon, and cucumber in a bowl, pour the pickling liquid over them, and set aside for at least 30 minutes (or refrigerate overnight for best results).

2. Marinate the Chicken

   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, lemongrass paste, and vegetable oil. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

3. Prepare the Sriracha Mayo

   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, and sesame oil until smooth. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness. Refrigerate until ready to use.

4. Cook the Chicken

   Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

5. Prepare the Baguettes

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice baguettes lengthwise, leaving one side connected. Toast in the oven for about 3-5 minutes until just crispy on the outside but still soft inside.

6. Assemble Your Banh Mi

   Spread a generous layer of sriracha mayo on both sides of each baguette. Layer in the sliced chicken, drained pickled vegetables, jalapeño slices, cilantro leaves, and mint leaves (if using). Gently press the sandwich together.

7. Serve and Enjoy

   Cut the sandwich in half diagonally for easier eating and serve immediately while the bread is still crispy and the fillings are fresh.

Pro Tips for the Best Banh Mi

• Bread Selection: The right baguette makes a huge difference. Look for Vietnamese baguettes which have a lighter, airier texture than French baguettes. If unavailable, a fresh French baguette will work well too.
• Pickle Timing: Make the pickled vegetables at least 30 minutes ahead, but they’re even better when prepared a day in advance.
• Protein Variations: While this recipe uses chicken, traditional banh mi can also be made with pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Herb Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh herbs! They provide the distinctive Vietnamese flavor that makes banh mi special.
• Texture Balance: The contrast between crispy bread, tender meat, and crunchy vegetables is essential for an authentic banh mi experience.

Nutritional Information

Common Questions About Banh Mi

What does “banh mi” actually mean?

In Vietnamese, “bánh mì” literally translates to “bread” or “wheat cake.” However, it’s commonly used to refer to the sandwich as a whole.

Can I make banh mi ahead of time?

While you can prepare all the components ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before eating to maintain the crucial texture contrast between the crisp bread and fillings.

What are traditional banh mi fillings?

Classic Vietnamese banh mi often contains pâté, Vietnamese cold cuts, pickled vegetables, cilantro, jalapeños, and mayonnaise. Our chicken version is a popular adaptation.

Why You’ll Love This Banh Mi Recipe

This banh mi sandwich brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make Vietnamese cuisine so beloved worldwide. The juicy marinated chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy pickled vegetables, while the sriracha mayo adds a creamy kick. Whether you’re already a fan of Vietnamese food or trying it for the first time, this banh mi recipe delivers an authentic taste experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.