When the sun starts to set and the warm evening air beckons, there’s something irresistible about firing up the grill. On one such evening, I decided to try my hand at an Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken that would not only tantalize my taste buds but also evoke the enchanting flavors of Southeast Asia. The moment that vibrant marinade of lemongrass, garlic, and lime hits the chicken, I can already imagine that perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors mingling together.
What makes this dish a standout is its simplicity. It requires minimal effort yet delivers delicious, restaurant-quality results that are bound to impress friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this grilled chicken recipe is as versatile as it is mouthwatering. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and transform your grill into a flavor-packed oasis!
Why is Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for any home cook.
Flavor explosion: The delightful mix of lemongrass, lime, and garlic creates a refreshing taste that transports you straight to Southeast Asia.
Versatile dish: Serve it with rice, in tacos, or alongside a fresh salad, and watch it shine in any meal!
Quick cooking time: In just 10 minutes, you can have perfectly grilled chicken on the table, ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Crowd pleaser: Everyone loves grilled chicken, and this version will have your guests asking for seconds. For more quick and delicious chicken ideas, check out our recipe for Easy Grilled Chicken Skewers.
Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Vegetable oil – helps to enhance the flavors and keep the chicken juicy.
- Fish sauce – adds an umami kick that complements the lemongrass perfectly.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice – provides a zesty brightness to balance the savory elements.
- Finely chopped lemongrass or lemongrass paste – infuses the chicken with a refreshing, aromatic quality.
- Garlic – brings a rich, savory flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Light or dark brown sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to counter the savory ingredients.
- Freshly ground black pepper – contributes a subtle heat that rounds out the flavor profile.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – these keep the chicken tender and moist on the grill for your Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken.
For Garnishing
- Fresh cilantro leaves – an optional sprinkle that adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
How to Make Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken
- Whisk together the marinade in a large bowl by combining vegetable oil, fish sauce, lime juice, lemongrass, garlic, brown sugar, and pepper. Stir well to dissolve the sugar for a balanced flavor.
- Toss in the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or if you have time, let it marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to high heat, aiming for a temperature between 450°F to 550°F. A hot grill is essential to achieve those beautiful grill marks and juicy chicken.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Lay the chicken on the grill in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd.
- Grill the chicken covered for about 5 to 6 minutes, watching for the famous grill marks to appear. Then, flip the chicken over, cover the grill again, and cook for about 5 more minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest the chicken on a serving plate or cutting board for 3 minutes after grilling. This helps retain its juiciness. Slice as desired and garnish with fresh cilantro if you wish!
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Avoid wilting: If garnished with cilantro, add it fresh right before serving rather than during storage to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.
What to Serve with Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken?
As the tantalizing aroma of lemongrass wafts through your kitchen, it’s time to consider the ideal accompaniments that will elevate your meal to the next level.
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Fragrant Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and subtle flavor perfectly soak up the marinade’s essence, creating a blissful harmony with the chicken.
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Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Crisp and light, this salad offers a delightful crunch and zing that cuts through the richness of the grilled chicken, making each bite refreshing.
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Grilled Veggies: Bell peppers and zucchini add a smoky sweetness that complements the lemongrass flavors, while their charred exterior provides an irresistible texture contrast.
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Sweet Mango Salsa: Bursting with vibrant flavors, this salsa introduces a fruity twist that enhances the savory profile of the chicken, creating a festive touch to your plate.
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Chilled Coconut Water: Serve this naturally sweet drink to capture the tropical essence of the dish, perfectly cleansing the palate with each sip.
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Whipped Coconut Cream Dessert: Finish the meal with a light, airy dessert that echoes the tropical notes of the chicken, providing a sweet yet refreshing end to your culinary journey.
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Herbed Quinoa: Nutty and protein-packed, quinoa studded with fresh herbs adds a heartiness that balances the lightness of the grilled chicken while offering a delightful chew.
Each of these pairings complements the Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken in their own unique way, creating a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress!
Expert Tips for Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken
• Marination time matters: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor depth, making it irresistibly delicious.
• Watch the heat: Keep your grill at high heat to achieve that perfect sear and avoid drying out the chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Place the chicken in a single layer for even cooking and those beautiful grill marks—this ensures maximum flavor in your Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken.
• Use a thermometer: Always check the internal temperature to reach 165°F, ensuring it’s cooked through while remaining juicy.
• Resting is key: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices for a more flavorful bite.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like mint or basil for an exciting twist on the classic flavor profile.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the chicken to soak up those robust flavors overnight in the refrigerator. Simply whisk together the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken as instructed, then cover and refrigerate. If you’re pressed for time, you can also marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. When you’re ready to cook, just remove it from the fridge, let any excess marinade drip off, and grill as directed. This approach not only saves time but also ensures that your grilled chicken remains just as delicious and flavorful, making busy weeknights a breeze!
Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños to the marinade for an extra layer of warmth that elevates this dish.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or mint leaves to the marinade for a fragrant twist that transports you to a garden paradise.
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Citrusy Burst: Swap lime juice for orange juice to introduce a sweeter, citrusy flavor that complements the lemongrass beautifully.
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Sweet & Spicy: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey or sriracha into the marinade for a delightful balance of sweet and spicy.
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Zesty Marinade: Include the zest of lime in addition to the juice for an extra punch of citrus flavor that brightens every bite.
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Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or portobello mushrooms as an alternative to chicken, soaking them in the marinade for a deliciously smokey flavor.
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Grilled Veggie Side: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers on the grill alongside the chicken, enhancing the meal with vibrant colors and textures.
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Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, consider using coconut milk in place of vegetable oil, creating a rich and creamy marinade that pairs perfectly with the lemongrass.
Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe lemongrass for the marinade?
Absolutely! Look for fresh lemongrass stalks that are firm and bright green with no brown spots. The base should be plump as this indicates tenderness. If using lemongrass paste, ensure it’s fresh and has a strong aromatic smell.
What’s the best way to store leftover Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken?
For sure! Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to enjoy it later, I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken?
Very much so! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Next, place it into a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. You can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly on the grill?
No worries! If you find that some pieces are cooking slower than others, it could be due to uneven grill heat or thickness variations. To troubleshoot, make sure your grill is properly preheated and try to use similar-sized chicken pieces for a consistent cook. You can also adjust the heat as needed while cooking, moving thinner pieces to cooler spots if necessary.
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the fish sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as coconut aminos or tamari. These will maintain the umami flavor you love, while ensuring the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can! While thighs are preferred for their tenderness and moisture, skinless boneless chicken breasts can also work well. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time as breasts may cook faster. Monitor the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F in a timely manner!
Savory Easy Lemongrass Grilled Chicken to Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the marinade in a large bowl by combining vegetable oil, fish sauce, lime juice, lemongrass, garlic, brown sugar, and pepper. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Toss in the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
- Preheat your grill to high heat, between 450°F to 550°F.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Lay the chicken on the grill in a single layer.
- Grill the chicken covered for about 5 to 6 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest the chicken on a serving plate for 3 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.