Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken – Fresh, Citrus-Infused, and Aromatic Recipe

Experience the vibrant, fresh flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe. Marinated in a blend of fragrant lemongrass, garlic, and lime, then pan-seared to perfection, this dish brings together the best of sweet, savory, and citrusy notes. It’s quick, aromatic, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for an easy yet exotic meal.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to marinate)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Number of Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh or breast

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Dietary Note: Gluten-free (verify fish sauce for gluten content)

Ingredients List

• Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (approx. 500g / 1 lb)

• For the Marinade:

  • 3 stalks fresh lemongrass, trimmed and finely minced (about 3 tbsp)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1 red chili, finely sliced, for added spice

• For Cooking and Serving:

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Steamed jasmine rice, for serving

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Marinade
   In a large bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, vegetable oil, black pepper, and sliced chili (if using). Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
2. Marinate the Chicken
   Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken
   Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, shaking off any excess marinade. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F).
4. Rest and Slice
   Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into strips for easier serving, if desired.
5. Serve
   Serve the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Choose Fresh Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass is key for authentic flavor. To prepare, remove the tough outer layers and finely mince the softer, inner stalk.
• Adjust Sweetness and Saltiness: Vietnamese dishes often balance sweet and salty flavors. Feel free to adjust the sugar and fish sauce to your taste preference.
• Use a Grill for Added Smokiness: If you want a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-frying. This adds another layer of authentic Vietnamese taste.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicier and more flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well in this recipe too, but they may require slightly less cooking time to avoid drying out.

2. What can I substitute for fish sauce?
Fish sauce adds a unique umami flavor, but if you need a substitute, soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option) can work in a pinch. However, keep in mind it will slightly alter the flavor.

3. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Marinating overnight is fine, but be cautious as the acidic lime juice may start to break down the chicken’s texture. For best results, marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

4. What sides go well with Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Steamed jasmine rice, fresh cucumber salad, and pickled vegetables are perfect accompaniments that balance the rich flavors of the chicken.

This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe is your ticket to the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. With its aromatic, citrusy profile and tender, juicy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the refreshing taste of lemongrass and lime in every delicious bite!