There’s something special about the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine that always brings a smile to my face. A recent Friday night, craving a little escape from the routine of takeout, I decided to whip up this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken. The moment I blended together the fragrant lemongrass, zesty lime, and sweet brown sugar, I could already tell I was in for a treat.
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s a perfect antidote to the usual fast-food frenzy. All it takes is a little marinating and quick frying to achieve that mouthwatering caramelization. It’s the kind of dish that converts even the most devoted takeout enthusiasts into home-cooked food lovers. Whether you’re sharing it with family or impressing guests, this lemongrass chicken delivers a burst of flavor that feels truly gourmet while being incredibly simple to prepare. So grab your apron and let’s dive into a culinary journey that promises delightful flavors and satisfying bites!
Why is Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: The fragrant blend of lemongrass, garlic, and lime creates a dish that dances on your palate.
Quick & Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and a short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight!
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at gatherings, and watch your guests rave about the vibrant flavors and aromatic scents.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, noodles, or even tossed in a salad for a delightful twist.
Healthy Choice: By using skinless chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, you’re nourishing your body without sacrificing taste.
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is sure to become a family favorite and a go-to in your kitchen repertoire.
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Chicken thighs – skinless and boneless for a tender, juicy result.
- Vegetable oil – use this for frying to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Lemongrass – the key ingredient that gives this dish its distinctive bright flavor.
- Shallot – adds a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements the lemongrass beautifully.
- Garlic – infuses a warm, aromatic essence throughout the chicken.
- Brown sugar – balances the savory sauces with a hint of sweetness.
- Lime juice – freshly squeezed for a refreshing tang that brightens the dish.
- Fish sauce – imparts an authentic umami depth typical in Vietnamese cuisine.
- Soy sauce – adds saltiness and enhances the savory flavor profile.
- Black pepper – a touch of heat that elevates the overall taste.
For the Dipping Sauce (Nước Chấm)
- Water – helps dissolve the sugar for a balanced sauce.
- White granulated sugar – sweetens the sauce to perfectly balance the salty fish sauce.
- Fish sauce – repetition is key here for that umami punch!
- Minced garlic – added for an extra pop of flavor in the sauce.
- Red chili pepper – for those who like a little kick in their dipping sauce.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to making the most succulent Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken that’s sure to delight everyone at your dinner table!
How to Make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
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Blend the Marinade: Combine the lemongrass, shallot, garlic, brown sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, and black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth, creating an aromatic marinade for your chicken.
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Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Let them soak for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, for maximum flavor infusion.
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Heat the Pan: In a large non-stick pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. This ensures a crispy and golden finish as you cook the chicken.
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Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Fry in small batches, cooking each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and slightly charred. Reduce heat and continue cooking the other side for about 2 minutes until juices run clear.
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Clean the Pan: After cooking each batch, remove the chicken and clean out any burned marinade residue. Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil before frying the next batch for the best results.
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Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the nước chấm ingredients: water, sugar, fish sauce, minced garlic, and chopped chili pepper. Serve this zesty sauce alongside your chicken to elevate the dish!
Optional: Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse and ensuring that your weeknight dinner is just as delicious. Simply prepare the marinade, combine it with the chicken in a resealable bag, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, the dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the marinated chicken as directed and enjoy mouthwatering, restaurant-quality results without the rush. This prep-ahead approach saves time and reduces stress on busy days!
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
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Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for richer flavors. Even a quick 1-hour marination enhances the taste significantly.
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High Heat Cooking: Use medium-high heat when frying chicken to achieve that beautiful caramelization. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
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Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than frying. Ensure each piece has space to get that golden crust.
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Ingredient Quality: Choose fresh and high-quality lemongrass and chicken for the best flavor and texture in your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the amount of chili pepper in your dipping sauce to suit your spice preference. Enjoy the heat!
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
Fridge: Store cooked Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its delicious flavors.
Freezer: To freeze, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring all air is removed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delightful taste.
Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.
Marinade Storage: You can also store leftover marinade in the fridge for up to 2 days. Use it to marinate more chicken or to enhance other dishes!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the vibrant flavors of this fragrant chicken dish.
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Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the bold marinade juices, offering a perfect base to balance the savory notes of the chicken.
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Fresh Cucumber Salad: A crisp salad with cucumbers, cilantro, and a touch of lemon adds a refreshing crunch that brightens the meal.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli provides a nutritious and colorful contrast, enhancing the dish’s appealing aesthetics while adding a healthy element.
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Vietnamese Spring Rolls: These fresh rolls provide a delightful crunch and flavour to your meal, creating a fun-to-eat atmosphere and a burst of freshness.
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Caramelized Pineapple: Sweet caramelized pineapple slices offer a delicious contrast to the savory and spicy chicken, making each bite an adventure.
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Coconut Lychee Drink: A cool coconut lychee beverage serves as a refreshing palate cleanser and indulgent treat, perfectly offsetting the richness of the dish.
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Mango Sorbet: End the meal on a light note with mango sorbet, bringing in a sweet fruity finish that echoes the tropical flavors.
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Pickled Vegetables: A tangy pickled vegetable medley provides a delightful contrast in taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dinner.
Remember, these pairings are not just about filling plates; they’re about creating a symphony of flavors and textures that elevate your home-cooked Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken to new heights!
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these exciting twists and swaps!
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Herb Blend: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fragrant green pop that elevates each bite. The combination with lemongrass is simply delightful!
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Spicy Kick: For an extra heat boost, toss in more chili peppers or a dash of sriracha in the marinade. It’s perfect for those who crave a fiery explosion of flavor.
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Coconut Milk: Substitute water in the dipping sauce with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist that complements the chicken beautifully. You’ll find yourself dreaming of beach vacations!
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Vegetable Swap: Replace chicken thighs with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version that still packs a flavorful punch. Just marinate as you would the chicken for excellent results.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in some orange juice or zest to the marinade for an additional layer of fruity brightness. It brings a cheerful, sunny vibe to your meal!
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Peanut Sauce: Trade the nước chấm for a creamy peanut sauce for dipping. This rich, nutty dip adds a whole new dimension to your Vietnamese feast.
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Noodle Bowl: Serve the chicken over rice noodles with fresh veggies and herbs for a delightful noodle bowl. It’s a fun and filling twist that transforms the dish!
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Honey Glaze: Use honey instead of brown sugar in the marinade for a sweeter glaze that caramelizes wonderfully during cooking. The sticky sweetness will leave everyone wanting more!
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe lemongrass?
Absolutely! When choosing lemongrass, look for stalks that are firm, pale green to yellow, and free of dark spots or dryness. The aroma should be fresh and citrusy. Avoid any that seem wilted or discolored.
How long will cooked Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken last in the fridge?
Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it piping hot and ready for your next meal, just reheat it in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Very! To freeze the chicken, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t browning properly during cooking?
If your chicken isn’t browning as it should, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A perfect sear requires a medium-high heat. Fry in small batches, and give each piece enough space in the pan to develop a golden crust without steaming.
Can I make this recipe allergy-friendly?
Yes, definitely! If you are allergic to fish, you can replace fish sauce with soy sauce or coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor. Ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free if that’s a concern. For those avoiding sugar, you can use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar for the marinade and dipping sauce.
How can I enhance the flavor further?
For an extra burst of flavor, marinate your chicken overnight instead of just an hour. You can also experiment with adding herbs like cilantro or Thai basil to your marinade for a delightful twist on this already fabulous Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken!
Savory Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the lemongrass, shallot, garlic, brown sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, and black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Marinate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade, shake off excess, and fry in small batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- After each batch, clean the pan, add more oil, and repeat until all chicken is cooked.
- In a small bowl, mix together water, sugar, fish sauce, minced garlic, and chopped chili pepper to make the dipping sauce.