Creating Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken is a delightful process. Follow these steps to ensure you get it just right:
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it cool. Once cool, slice into thin strips.
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prep the Vegetables: Rinse the lettuce, mint, basil, and cilantro under cold water. Pat dry. Shred the lettuce, julienne the cucumber, and prepare the shredded carrots.
- Soak the Rice Paper Wrapper: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip a single rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds or until it becomes soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay the softened rice paper on a clean surface. Layer a small amount of lettuce, vermicelli noodles, carrots, cucumber, and sliced chicken on the bottom third of the wrapper. Add a few mint, basil, and cilantro leaves on top.
- Roll the Wrapper: Starting from the bottom, roll the wrapper over the filling tightly. Fold in the sides and continue rolling until fully wrapped. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix hoisin sauce, peanut butter, water, and sriracha (if using) until combined. Garnish with crushed peanuts.
- Serve: Arrange the summer rolls on a platter and serve with the dipping sauce.