The sizzling sound of chicken hitting the grill paired with the fragrant aroma of fresh lemongrass transports me straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. This Juicy Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style is a delightful escape from the usual dinner routine—perfect for those evenings when you crave something vibrant yet comforting. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll whip up a crowd-pleasing meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also marvelously health-conscious, thanks to the lean protein of chicken and the zesty notes of lime. Whether served over jasmine rice or tossed into a light salad, this dish is sure to elevate your weeknight dinners. Ready to impress your taste buds and leave fast food behind? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Lemongrass Chicken a Must-Try?
Fragrant Flavors: The use of fresh lemongrass brings an aromatic zing that awakens your senses, making each bite delightful.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for those busy nights, you can marinate and cook this dish in under an hour, without compromising on taste!
Healthy and Wholesome: With lean chicken and minimal fat, this dish is a guilt-free option, fitting perfectly into your healthy eating routine.
Versatile Serving: Whether served with jasmine rice or a vibrant salad, it adapts to any meal occasion, ensuring you never tire of its flavors.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this unique recipe that’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds!
Dive into the full experience of this vibrant meal and embrace a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Give it a try tonight!
Lemongrass Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Chicken thighs or breasts – 1.5 pounds; boneless and skinless options ensure tenderness and quick cooking.
• Fresh lemongrass – 3 stalks, finely chopped; this key ingredient provides the signature flavor of Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style.
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; it adds depth and fragrance to the marinade.
• Red chilies – 1-2, finely chopped; for a touch of heat that you can adjust to your liking.
• Fish sauce – 2 tablespoons; this salty and savory component amplifies the umami flavor.
• Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon; enhances the marinade and adds a rich color to the chicken.
• Sugar – 1 tablespoon; balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon; keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
• Black pepper – 1 teaspoon; adds a subtle kick.
For Serving
• Fresh cilantro – to garnish; brings a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
• Lime wedges – for serving; a squeeze of lime adds brightness that elevates the flavors beautifully.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, and chopped red chilies. Then, add the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, vegetable oil, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients together until well mixed, and the sugar has dissolved. This fragrant marinade will ensure your Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style is packed with flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Make sure each piece is well covered for the best flavor infusion. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for optimal flavor, let it marinate for 1-2 hours.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Pan
While the chicken marinates, heat your grill or a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. This should take about 5 minutes. You’re looking for the surface to be hot enough that a few drops of water sizzle upon contact. Proper preheating ensures the chicken sears beautifully, developing a golden brown crust.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the heated grill or skillet. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and registers an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style is both safe and delicious.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy and tender chicken. Resist the urge to slice immediately, as waiting pays off in flavor and texture.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
After resting, slice the chicken into strips for easier serving. The juicy slices will absorb any remaining marinade, bringing the essence of Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style to each bite. This is the perfect time to prepare your side dishes or plates for serving.
Step 7: Garnish
Top the sliced chicken with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to squeeze fresh lime juice over their portions. This vibrant garnish elevates the dish and enhances the fresh, zesty flavors.
Expert Tips for Lemongrass Chicken
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh lemongrass and high-quality chicken for the best flavor. Dried or frozen lemongrass won't give the same aromatic taste.
• Marination Time: Don’t rush marinating! For maximum flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 1-2 hours. Overnight is even better!
• Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking, avoid overcrowding the grill or skillet. This helps achieve that delicious, crispy exterior and prevents steaming.
• Check Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and ideal juiciness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This crucial step helps the juices redistribute, keeping your Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style tender.
• Serving Style: Experiment with different serving options like rice noodles or a fresh salad to keep meals exciting and adapt to your taste!
How to Store and Freeze Lemongrass Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Lemongrass Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain its delicious flavor and juicy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This method ensures you retain the chicken's moisture.
Lemongrass Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with the flavors and ingredients of this dish to truly make it your own. Exciting twists await!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter, soy-free option.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce and ensure that your fish sauce is gluten-free.
- Spicier: Increase the number of red chilies or add a splash of sriracha to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Herb Booster: Mix in fresh basil or mint to the marinade for a refreshing twist that highlights herbaceous notes. These fragrant herbs will elevate your dish to new heights!
- Grilled Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers and zucchini on the grill alongside the chicken for added color and texture, creating a balanced meal bursting with flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Include the zest of a lime or orange to the marinade for a fragrant, citrus-infused variation that brightens the flavor profile.
- Smoky Flavor: If you love smoky undertones, try adding a touch of smoked paprika to the marinade before grilling.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace the chicken with cubes of firm tofu or seitan, marinating them as directed and adjusting cooking time as needed for your chosen protein.
You can explore these ideas to create a unique experience with each meal. Pair your Lemongrass Chicken with a light Vietnamese salad for a fresh side option or serve it over a bed of jasmine rice to soak up all those delicious flavors!
What to Serve with Juicy Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style
Elevate your dining experience by complementing the vibrant flavors of this dish with sides that add texture and freshness.
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Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant rice acts as a perfect canvas, soaking up the flavorful marinade for an aromatic bite.
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Fresh Vietnamese Salad: Crisp vegetables and herbs enhance the dish's brightness, balancing the savory chicken beautifully. It's a refreshing contrast that keeps your meal light and zesty.
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Pickled Vegetables: These tangy, crunchy additions cut through the richness of the chicken, providing a delightful burst of acidity that invigorates the palate.
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Coconut Rice: For a touch of sweetness, pair with coconut-infused rice that adds a creamy contrast, perfectly harmonizing with the lemongrass flavors.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of grilled corn complements the lemongrass chicken and offers a fun, summery vibe to your meal.
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Indonesian Tempeh Skewers: Turn this into a fusion feast by serving skewers of grilled tempeh, providing a delightful nutty flavor that complements the chicken's zest.
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Limeade or Thai Iced Tea: Refresh your palate with a cool, citrusy limeade or sweet Thai iced tea, both of which accentuate the vibrant flavors of the chicken.
Each of these sides brings something special to your plate, making your mealtime both satisfying and memorable!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style dishes are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance—just combine the marinade ingredients, coat the chicken well, and cover it before refrigerating. Additionally, if you want to save time on the day of serving, grill or pan-cook the chicken ahead and store it in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge. To enjoy the chicken at its best, reheat it gently in the skillet, just until warmed through, and finish with cilantro and lime right before serving. This way, you’ll savor every delicious bite, even on the busiest of nights!
Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right lemongrass?
Absolutely! When selecting lemongrass, look for vibrant green stalks that are firm to the touch. They should have a fragrant citrus aroma and be free of dark spots or browning. The more the merrier when it comes to freshness!
What’s the best way to store leftover lemongrass chicken?
You can store leftover Lemongrass Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly sealed to maintain its juicy goodness. If you have more than you can eat, consider freezing!
Can I freeze Lemongrass Chicken?
Yes, you can! For freezing, let the cooked chicken cool completely. Place it in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container, removing as much air as possible. Label it with the date, and it will stay good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet to keep it tender.
What if my chicken doesn’t cook evenly?
Very common! If you notice that your chicken is cooking unevenly, it may be that it's too thick or the heat is too high. Try flattening the chicken with a meat mallet for even cooking. This way, it will cook through in about 6-7 minutes per side, reaching that perfect golden brown. Remember to always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety and deliciousness.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using tofu or seitan as a substitute for chicken. Marinate the tofu or seitan the same way, adjusting the cooking time as needed—typically, sautéing for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown will do the trick without losing flavor. Enjoy this vibrant taste, even without meat!
Is this recipe safe for people with food allergies?
Great question! Be cautious if you're cooking for someone with allergies. This Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style contains fish sauce, which may not be suitable for pescatarians and individuals with shellfish allergies. You can substitute the fish sauce with coconut aminos or a homemade substitute of soy sauce mixed with a dash of lime juice for similar flavor while being mindful of allergies. Always double-check individual ingredient labels to ensure safety.
Savor the Flavor: Lemongrass Chicken Vietnamese Style Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- grill or non-stick skillet
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 stalks fresh lemongrass, finely chopped key ingredient for flavor
- 4 cloves garlic, minced adds depth and fragrance
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped adjust for heat preference
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce amplifies umami flavor
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce adds rich color
- 1 tablespoon sugar balances flavors
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil keeps chicken moist
- 1 teaspoon black pepper adds subtle kick
For Serving
- fresh cilantro, to garnish adds freshness
- lime wedges, for serving adds brightness
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, and chopped red chilies. Then, add the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, vegetable oil, and black pepper. Stir all together until well mixed and sugar is dissolved.
- Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, coat thoroughly, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
- Remove chicken from marinade and allow excess liquid to drip off. Cook chicken on the grill or skillet for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C).
- Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Slice the chicken into strips for easier serving, ensuring it absorbs remaining marinade.
- Top sliced chicken with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
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