There’s a special joy in turning ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. One whiff of the aromatic blend of lemongrass, garlic, and shallots cooking together in a hot skillet can transport me straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam. It’s incredible how this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken not only brightens my dinner plate but also elevates my spirits after a long day.
When I first tried this recipe, I had my weekday dinner boredom in mind, and I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet dynamic it is. The flavors dance together, creating a sweet and savory balance that makes each bite a celebration. With a mere 10 minutes of preparation and a quick cook time, this dish fits beautifully into any busy lifestyle while offering a delightful encounter with fresh, authentic flavors.
Ready to bring some excitement to your kitchen? Let me guide you through making this aromatic, crowd-pleasing dish that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why choose Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken tonight?
Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delightful meal in no time.
Aromatic Bliss: Fresh lemongrass and garlic will fill your kitchen with irresistible scents that make cooking a pleasure.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory balance in this dish will tantalize your taste buds with every bite.
Quick and Efficient: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family or guests with an authentic dish that transports them straight to Vietnam.
So why wait? Experience the magic of homemade Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken and elevate your dinner routine!
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Ingredients
Discover the vibrant flavors waiting in this delightful dish!
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – These cut easily and absorb all the wonderful flavors from the marinade.
For the Marinade
- Fresh lemongrass – Adds a citrusy aroma that elevates the dish to traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
- Garlic – Provides depth and warmth, making the dish more robust and savory.
- Shallots – Adds a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Fish sauce – Infuses umami flavors that are quintessential to Vietnamese cooking.
- Soy sauce – Enhances the savory notes while bringing a touch of saltiness.
- Brown sugar – Balances the saltiness and adds a hint of caramelization during cooking.
- Black pepper – Adds a subtle spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Red chili flakes (optional) – For those who like a little heat, feel free to adjust to taste!
For Cooking
- Vegetable oil – Ensures a nice sear on the chicken, helping to lock in moisture and flavor.
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro – Brightens up the dish and adds an aromatic freshness.
- Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime just before serving enhances all the vibrant flavors in the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken.
How to Make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
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Prepare the chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces or leave them whole. This will allow the chicken to cook evenly and absorb the marinade beautifully.
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Mix the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and optional red chili flakes. Stir well until everything is nicely blended into a fragrant marinade.
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Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for the best flavor.
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Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. This will help to achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
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Cook the chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned on one side. This will create a lovely caramelized crust.
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Flip and finish cooking: Turn the chicken pieces over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until they are cooked through and caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and generously sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Serve over jasmine rice for a complete meal that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
To create a meal that captures the essence of Vietnam, consider these perfect pairings that complement the aromatic flavors of your dish.
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Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and subtle fragrance of jasmine rice are perfect for soaking up the rich flavors of the lemongrass chicken, making every bite unforgettable.
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Vietnamese Spring Rolls: Fresh and crunchy, these rolls filled with herbs, vegetables, and shrimp provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken. They bring a burst of freshness to the table!
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Crispy Garlic Green Beans: Stir-fried with garlic, these crisp green beans add a delightful crunch that balances the tender chicken. Their brightness enhances the overall harmony of the meal.
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Coconut Curry Soup: This rich soup offers a warming and soothing counterpart, with coconut milk adding creaminess that beautifully complements the zesty chicken flavors.
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Pickled Vegetables: A tangy mix of pickled carrots and daikon brings a vibrant acidity that cuts through the richness, brightening the plate with color and flavor.
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Lychee or Mango Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie can cool down the palate and add a fruity sweetness that is delightful alongside the spicy and savory elements of the dish.
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Ginger Tea: Warm, soothing ginger tea not only aids digestion but adds warmth and comfort to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Lime Sorbet: To round out the meal, a light and refreshing lime sorbet offers a delightful citrusy finish, balancing the savory notes of the chicken with a touch of sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors develop beautifully. Simply follow the marinade instructions, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. If you need to prep even further ahead, the marinade itself can be mixed and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to cook, just add the marinated chicken to a hot skillet and proceed with the cooking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality flavors in no time, with minimal stress and maximum satisfaction!
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
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Marinate Longer: Aim for 2 hours if possible. The longer marinating time allows the chicken to soak up more flavors from the marinade.
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Sear for Best Flavor: Don’t rush the cooking process. Let the chicken sear on one side before flipping to develop a deep, delicious caramelization.
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Monitor Heat: Keep the skillet on medium-high heat for optimal cooking. Too low and the chicken won’t brown nicely; too high and it may burn.
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Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the red chili flakes. You want the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken to reflect your palate!
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Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking. If leftovers occur, gently reheat to prevent dryness and loss of flavor.
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists on the classic dish for a personalized touch!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegetarian: Use tofu or tempeh marinated in the same ingredients for a plant-based alternative that’s equally delicious.
- Lemon Zest Kick: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the marinade for an extra burst of citrus flavor that brightens the dish.
- Honey Substitute: Swap brown sugar for honey to create a unique sweet note that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
- Extra Spice: For a fiery kick, increase the red chili flakes or add sliced fresh jalapeños to the skillet while cooking.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate Thai basil or mint in addition to the cilantro for a refreshing aromatic twist that enhances the dish.
- Coconut Cream Creaminess: Stir in a splash of coconut cream during cooking for a rich, tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with lemongrass.
- Pineapple Sweetness: Adding fresh pineapple chunks during the last few minutes of cooking gives a sweet and tangy twist that balances the savory notes.
Embrace the art of customization and make this dish truly your own by trying out these variations!
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the chicken’s tenderness and the vibrant flavors of the marinade.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Ensure to label your bag with the date to keep track.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water for moisture if needed.
Room Temperature: Limit leaving cooked chicken at room temperature to 2 hours for food safety. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best lemongrass for my dish?
Look for fresh lemongrass stalks that are firm and have a vibrant green color. The base should be bulbous and fragrant. Avoid stalks with dark spots or dryness, as these indicate it’s past its prime.
How should I store leftovers of Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain the meal’s flavor and juiciness, allow it to cool completely before sealing. If you’d like to enjoy it beyond a few days, consider freezing!
Can I freeze Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat the chicken?
To reheat, thaw the chicken completely in the fridge first. Then, warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through. If it appears slightly dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to help reintroduce moisture.
Is this recipe safe for those with food allergies?
This dish contains fish sauce and soy sauce, which can be common allergens. If you have dietary concerns, look for gluten-free soy sauce or consider alternatives like tamari. Always check labels for specific allergens based on your needs!
How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
To prevent your chicken from becoming dry, ensure that you’re cooking over medium-high heat and don’t exceed the suggested cooking times. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove it from heat as soon as it’s cooked through to maintain its juiciness.
Savor Homemade Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces or leave them whole.
- In a large bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and optional red chili flakes. Stir well until everything is nicely blended into a fragrant marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering.
- Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Turn the chicken pieces over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until they are cooked through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and generously sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.