How to Make Vietnamese Chicken with Rice for Dinner
Vietnamese Chicken with Rice, known as Cơm Gà, is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fragrant rice, and fresh herbs. This comforting meal is perfect for dinner and can be made easily at home. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delicious Vietnamese recipe.
Ingredients
To make Vietnamese Chicken with Rice, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (or 4 chicken thighs)
- 3 cups jasmine rice
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3-4 stalks of green onions, chopped
- Fresh herbs (cilantro and mint)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
1. Cook the Chicken
Start by boiling the chicken in a large pot of water with the sliced onion and some salt. Let the chicken simmer for about 30-40 minutes until it's fully cooked. Once cooked, remove the chicken and allow it to cool. Keep the chicken stock for later use.
2. Prepare the Rice
While the chicken is cooking, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the rinsed rice, stir to coat it in oil, and then add 4 cups of the chicken stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
3. Season the Chicken
Once the chicken has cooled, cut it into pieces. In a bowl, mix the fish sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the chicken pieces to enhance their flavor.
4. Serve the Dish
To serve, spoon the fragrant rice onto a plate and arrange the chicken on top. Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh herbs, and any additional toppings you desire, such as sliced cucumber or pickled carrots.
Tips for the Perfect Vietnamese Chicken with Rice
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of fish sauce and garlic for a couple of hours before boiling.
- Using homemade chicken stock instead of water will greatly enhance the flavor of the rice.
- Feel free to add vegetables to the rice or serve with a side of stir-fried greens for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Making Vietnamese Chicken with Rice is an excellent choice for dinner. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and fresh herbs creates a meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy this traditional dish with your family and friends, and delight in the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine!