Bánh Mì
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar
- dash of salt
- 2 carrots
- 1 English cucumber
- 1 jalapeño pepper
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro
- 4 small French baguettes or crusty rolls
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha hot sauce
Directions
- 1
Pickle the veggies: In a small pot combine the rice vinegar, water and dash of salt and bring to a boil. Add carrots (if you shredded them, squeeze them out inside paper towels over the sink), cucumber and jalapeño to a large bowl. Pour hot vinegar liquid over the veggies and set aside for 30 minutes.
- 2
Make the sauce: Meanwhile, make the sauce and prepare the chicken. In a small bowl combine the mayonnaise, hoisin sauce and sriracha and season with salt and pepper. Set aside, or make ahead and refrigerate.
- 3
Cook the chicken: Season the chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper. Add a little olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for a few minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting.
- 4
Assemble: Slice the rolls in half lengthwise and toast them, if desired. Spread a thin layer of the mayo sauce on each half of bread. Slice the chicken and place on top. Spoon any leftover sauce on top of the chicken. Drain the veggies and add a big handful to each sandwich. Top with a small handful of fresh cilantro leaves. Sandwich with the top half of the roll and enjoy!
Bánh Mì
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 34 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving the vibrant, layered flavors of an authentic Bánh Mì sandwich without the trip to your favorite Vietnamese spot? This recipe brings you incredibly flavorful Bánh Mì, packed with fresh, crisp vegetables, savory seasoned chicken, and a delightful homemade sauce, all ready to enjoy in your own kitchen.
Why This Bánh Mì Recipe Works
What makes these Bánh Mì sandwiches truly special is the thoughtful balance of components. You get the rich, savory depth from the chicken seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, perfectly cut by the bright, tangy quick-pickled carrots and English cucumber. The secret to that irresistible crave-ability lies in the simple yet dynamic homemade sauce, blending creamy mayonnaise with sweet hoisin and a kick of Sriracha.
What to Expect
Prepare for a fantastic interplay of textures and tastes with every bite. You'll experience the satisfying crunch of a fresh, crusty baguette giving way to tender, aromatic chicken. The cool, crisp pickled vegetables, along with fresh cilantro, provide a refreshing counterpoint to the subtle warmth from the jalapeño and cayenne. The rich, spicy-sweet sauce ties all these elements together, ensuring each mouthful is a vibrant explosion of flavor. It’s a wonderfully balanced sandwich that hits all the right notes: savory, sweet, sour, and a touch of heat.
Customization & Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences. If you prefer less heat, simply reduce or omit the jalapeño pepper and Sriracha hot sauce. For an extra spicy kick, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the chicken seasoning or add more Sriracha to your sauce. Don't have an English cucumber? A regular cucumber will work, just be sure to scoop out the seeds first.
Serving & Context
These satisfying Bánh Mì sandwiches make a fantastic and unique meal for lunch or dinner. They're perfect for a casual gathering with friends or a delightful family meal, especially when you want something fresh, flavorful, and a bit different. Serve them immediately to savor the crispness of the baguette and the vibrant flavors at their peak.