If you crave something fragrant, flavorful, and downright comforting, then this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. The tender chicken thighs soak up a bright, savory marinade bursting with fresh lemongrass, garlic, and a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Every bite is a joyful celebration of textures and layers of flavor that feel like a warm hug from Vietnamese home cooking. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this dish delivers big on taste with surprisingly simple ingredients and quick preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is all about gathering a handful of fresh, essential ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. From herbaceous lemongrass to punchy garlic and the perfect balance of salty and sweet elements, every item plays a big role in the final flavor and texture.
- Chicken thighs: Using boneless, skinless pieces ensures juicy, tender chicken that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- Lemongrass: Fresh and finely minced, the white part brings citrusy brightness that defines the dish.
- Fish sauce: This salty, umami-packed ingredient layers in deep authentic Vietnamese flavor.
- Soy sauce: Adds a rounded saltiness and helps with caramelization during cooking.
- Brown sugar: Balances the savory elements with a gentle sweetness and aids in browning.
- Lime juice: Injects zesty acidity that lifts and brightens all the flavors.
- Garlic cloves: Minced finely for that punch of aromatic warmth in every bite.
- Shallot: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth beyond plain onions.
- Black pepper: Gives just a hint of spice and earthiness to round out the marinade.
- Vegetable oil: For perfect searing and a crispy exterior without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
- Cilantro and lime wedges: Fresh, vibrant garnishes that add color and an extra zing at serving.
How to Make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the finely minced lemongrass, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, shallot, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces and stir until every morsel is generously coated in this fragrant marinade. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. If you have the time, overnight marinating intensifies the flavors beautifully, making the chicken irresistibly tender and bursting with zest.
Step 2: Cook to Perfection
When you’re ready to cook, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, making sure to leave space so they sear instead of steam. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns a gorgeous golden brown and is cooked through. The caramelization from the sugars combined with the aromatic lemongrass creates an insanely tasty crust that makes this simple skillet dinner shine.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from heat and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top along with lime wedges on the side. These finishing touches brighten the dish and add a fresh pop of color, inviting you to squeeze that fresh lime juice right before you take your first delicious bite.
How to Serve Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Cilantro and lime wedges are classic choices to top off this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe, adding freshness and a zesty lift. If you want to spice things up, slicing fresh red chilies or drizzling a bit of chili garlic sauce over the top brings a welcome kick that complements the bright lemongrass perfectly.
Side Dishes
This chicken shines when paired with fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up every bit of the savory sauce. You can also serve it alongside light rice noodles tossed with herbs and a bit of sesame oil for extra texture. For a refreshing contrast, a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a little sugar is an ideal balance to the rich, aromatic chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to jazz things up, serve the chicken over lettuce leaves or in rice paper wraps with fresh herbs and shredded veggies for a fun, hand-held experience. Alternatively, pile the chicken over a bed of sautéed greens or add pickled carrots for a flavorful crunch. The vibrant colors and layers of texture make this dish a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it just as delicious the next day. Keep the lime wedges and cilantro separate to maintain their bright, fresh taste at serving.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as reheating slowly maintains the tender texture and keeps the caramelized bits from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is leaner and will work fine, but be careful not to overcook it as it can dry out faster than thighs. Marinating well and cooking quickly on high heat helps keep it juicy.
Where can I find fresh lemongrass?
Most Asian grocery stores carry fresh lemongrass year-round. Look for firm stalks with pale green and white colors. If fresh isn’t available, some stores also sell frozen lemongrass or dried lemongrass powder as alternatives, though fresh always gives the best flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
The basic Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is not spicy, making it perfect for all palates. If you enjoy heat, feel free to add sliced fresh chilies or chili garlic sauce to the marinade or garnish.
Can I prepare this recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! This recipe is excellent for meal prepping since it stores and reheats beautifully without losing flavor. Just keep the garnishes separate to add freshness when serving.
What’s the best rice to serve with this dish?
Jasmine rice is the top choice because of its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, which perfectly complements the savory, citrusy chicken. You can also serve it with steamed white rice, brown rice, or even rice noodles depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is like inviting a burst of vibrant, comforting flavors into your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, it’s a dish that delivers amazing taste without fuss. Trust me, once you make it, it will become one of your go-to favorites for weeknight dinners or anytime you want a little culinary joy from Vietnam’s bright flavors. So grab that lemongrass and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant mixture of lemongrass, fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, the chicken is pan-seared to a deliciously caramelized finish and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve with jasmine rice or noodles for a satisfying meal rich in Southeast Asian flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons lemongrass, finely minced (white part only)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, thoroughly combine minced lemongrass, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, shallot, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade base.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse, or overnight for a more intense taste.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking, to prepare for searing the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned on the outside and fully cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken to plates and garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately with jasmine rice or your preferred side for a complete meal.
Notes
- This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, rice noodles, or a crisp cucumber salad.
- For added heat, stir in sliced red chilies or a dash of chili garlic sauce to the marinade.
- Marinating overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderizes the chicken further.
- Use fresh lemongrass for the best aromatic flavor; if unavailable, frozen lemongrass can be used but thaw before mincing.
