To poach the chicken: Place a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the coconut milk and water. Bring to the boil, then add the chicken breasts and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, then turn off the heat. Remove the chicken (don’t throw out the liquid) and shred. Add the chicken back into the poaching liquid and leave it to cool while you prepare the other elements.
400 g canned coconut milk, 1 cup water, 2 chicken breasts
For the dressing: Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl. Adjust to taste.
2/3 cup canned coconut milk, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, 1/2 lime, 1 tablespoon caster sugar
Place the noodles in a large bowl. Fill with boiling water and cover with a plate for about 5 minutes (check the packet instructions). Drain and run under cold water. You can use paper towel to absorb any remaining moisture.
100 g rice vermicelli noodles
If using the shredded coconut, place a medium frying pan over medium heat. Add the coconut. Toast, stirring, for about 7 minutes (until the coconut starts to colour). Remove and set aside.
1/2 cup shredded coconut
Place the rice vermicelli noodles, poached chicken, cucumber, edamame beans, spring onion, mint, thai basil, peanuts and red chilli in a large bowl. Drizzle over the dressing and gently toss through. Serve in bowls and top with the toasted shredded coconut if desired.
100 g rice vermicelli noodles, 2 chicken breasts, 1 lebanese cucumber, 1 cup edamame beans, 4 spring onions, 1 cup mint leaves, 1 cup thai basil leaves, 1/2 cup peanuts, 1 red chilli, 1/2 cup shredded coconut