If you’re looking for an electrifying dish that transports your taste buds straight to Vietnam, look no further than Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken! This recipe is a perfect blend of bold flavors and fresh ingredients, offering a culinary experience that’s both aromatic and satisfying. The beautiful, earthy essence of lemongrass paired with zesty lime, fiery chili, and tender chicken thighs creates a symphony of tastes that play incredibly well together. It’s not just another chicken recipe; it’s a delicious exploration of Vietnamese cuisine right in your kitchen.
What makes this dish so alluring is its simplicity and speed. Despite having captivating flavors, the preparation is easy, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. With only a few steps and some marinating time, you’ll end up with chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Plus, cooking with fresh ingredients like lemongrass, garlic, and lime adds not just flavor but also health benefits—it’s light yet satisfying.
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe is an excellent option for anyone craving something flavorful and unique. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or yearning for a comforting meal at home, this dish has got your back. Let’s dive into making this mouthwatering capture of Vietnamese flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
- Bold Flavors: The combination of lemongrass, garlic, and chili elevates the chicken, making it a standout dish.
- Quick and Easy: With a simple marinade and quick cooking time, your meal will be ready in no time!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and lean proteins, it’s a nutritious choice.
- Adaptable: Easily adjust the spice levels and pair with various sides to suit your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with bright cilantro and lime, it looks as fantastic as it tastes.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you embark on your culinary journey with Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace. Ensure that you have all ingredients measured and within reach, as this will streamline the cooking process. You will need some basic cooking tools, including a large skillet for searing the chicken, a mixing bowl for marinating, and cutting boards for chopping ingredients. A sharp knife is crucial for finely mincing the lemongrass, garlic, and shallots, as this will enhance their flavors in the dish.
Having a meat thermometer handy is also advisable, ensuring your chicken thighs reach the optimal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Prepare a space for plating your dish, complete with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an aesthetically pleasing presentation. These simple steps combined will set the stage for a successful cooking experience.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 stalks lemongrass (white part only), minced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small shallot, minced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by gathering your ingredients in a mixing bowl. Combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallot, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, black pepper, and chili paste. This marinade is where the flavors come alive, so mix it well until everything is combined into a smooth mixture. The aromatic components like lemongrass and garlic will permeate the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Toss the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the bowl of marinade and coat them well. The marinating process is essential; aim for at least 30 minutes, although letting it sit for up to 2 hours will intensify the flavors even further. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. During this time, the chicken will absorb the tangy, savory marinade.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Once your chicken has marinated sufficiently, it’s time to get cooking! Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to sizzle but not smoking. This will help achieve that golden-brown crust on your chicken, which adds texture and visual appeal.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Carefully add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 5–7 minutes on one side. This will ensure they develop a nice sear. After that, flip the chicken to cook the other side until it’s fully cooked through (about another 5-7 minutes), reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest briefly. This ensures that the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a serving plate, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side. The vibrant garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add fresh bursts of flavor when squeezed over the chicken.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the skillet for added texture and nutrition.
- Spices: Incorporate other spices such as cilantro, ginger, or even a dash of sesame oil to bring more depth to the flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to finely mince the lemongrass, as larger pieces can be too fibrous.
- To increase the chicken’s flavor, consider making the marinade a day ahead and letting the chicken rest for longer.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious juices.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Tips
- Feel free to adjust the chili paste according to your heat preference—omit it for milder flavors or add more for extra kick.
- Try to use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 25 grams
- Sodium: 600 milligrams (adjust based on soy sauce used)
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
What can I serve with this dish?
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even noodles.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken 24 hours in advance and cook it when you’re ready.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of chili paste you use. Feel free to omit it for lower heat.
Conclusion
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that awakens your senses with vibrant flavors and tantalizing aromas. Whether you’re new to Vietnamese cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish provides a beautiful balance of flavors that leaves a lasting impression. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a welcome addition to any dinner table — perfect for families or gatherings. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the explosion of flavors that come together effortlessly. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so please share your comments or any exciting variations you come up with!
Print
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that awakens your senses with vibrant flavors and tantalizing aromas.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 stalks lemongrass (white part only), minced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small shallot, minced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Start by gathering your ingredients in a mixing bowl. Combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallot, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, black pepper, and chili paste. This marinade is where the flavors come alive, so mix it well until everything is combined into a smooth mixture. The aromatic components like lemongrass and garlic will permeate the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Toss the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the bowl of marinade and coat them well. The marinating process is essential; aim for at least 30 minutes, although letting it sit for up to 2 hours will intensify the flavors even further. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. During this time, the chicken will absorb the tangy, savory marinade.
- Once your chicken has marinated sufficiently, it’s time to get cooking! Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to sizzle but not smoking. This will help achieve that golden-brown crust on your chicken, which adds texture and visual appeal.
- Carefully add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 5–7 minutes on one side. This will ensure they develop a nice sear. After that, flip the chicken to cook the other side until it’s fully cooked through (about another 5-7 minutes), reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest briefly. This ensures that the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
- After resting, slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a serving plate, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side. The vibrant garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add fresh bursts of flavor when squeezed over the chicken.
Notes
Make sure to finely mince the lemongrass, as larger pieces can be too fibrous. To increase the chicken’s flavor, consider making the marinade a day ahead and letting the chicken rest for longer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 25 g