There is something truly magical about the vibrant flavors and fragrant aromas of the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken infused with the fresh brightness of lemongrass, the subtle heat of garlic, and the perfect balance of savory fish sauce and zesty lime. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug from a close friend, bursting with authentic taste yet simple enough to whip up any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe will quickly earn a spot in your go-to meal rotation because it’s as comforting as it is exciting on the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that combine to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s tenderizing the chicken, adding a touch of sweetness, or brightening the dish with fresh citrus notes.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing juicy, lean protein that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons lemongrass, finely chopped: Offers a fragrant, citrusy punch that defines this recipe’s unique flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that complements the lemongrass perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce: Brings authentic umami and saltiness essential in Vietnamese cooking.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Enhances the savory profile and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the savory and sour with a gentle sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist and aids in grilling or pan-searing.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Injects bright acidity, cutting through the richness and highlighting fresh flavors.
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish: Brings a burst of green freshness and a hint of herbaceous zest to finish the dish.
How to Make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Marinade
Start by combining the finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir these ingredients together until the brown sugar dissolves and the marinade is well blended. This vibrant mix is the heart of the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe, packing a punch of flavor that will transform the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. For best results, cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating overnight will infuse even deeper flavor and tenderness. This step is where the chicken absorbs all the wonderful notes that define this recipe.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking—you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juicy, fully cooked meat. The caramelization from the sugar will create a beautiful golden crust that adds texture and visual appeal.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is key to keeping the meat juicy as it allows the juices to redistribute. Once rested, slice the chicken against the grain into even pieces. This finish makes the dish easy to eat and ready for serving.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top to add a fresh, herbal lift that enhances the lemongrass and lime flavors. Now your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is complete and ready to wow the taste buds.
How to Serve Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro bring that extra pop of color and flavor. Adding thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also elevate the dish, giving it a subtle crunch and nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
Side Dishes
This chicken shines when paired with simple sides such as steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the delicious juices, or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the warmth with crisp texture. Steamed or stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or snap peas add vibrant color and complement the dish’s Asian flair beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, you can serve this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe over vermicelli noodles with fresh herbs and pickled veggies for a vibrant bowl that’s packed with flavor and textures. Or pack it in lettuce wraps for a fresh, handheld treat perfect for warmer days or casual entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to mature, making it even more delicious the next day. It’s perfect for quick lunches and easy dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Freeze in individual portions to make reheating more convenient. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. Microwaving works too, but covering the chicken with a damp paper towel helps prevent dryness. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a bit more fat, which means they’ll be extra juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes will impart good flavor, marinating for 2-4 hours or even overnight will give you deeper flavor and tenderness. Just be sure not to marinate longer than 24 hours to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.
Is lemongrass hard to find?
You can often find fresh lemongrass in well-stocked grocery stores or Asian markets. If fresh isn’t available, dried lemongrass or lemongrass paste can be a convenient substitute, but fresh always gives the best flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep the dish safe for gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
What can I serve with this dish for a complete meal?
Steamed jasmine rice and a light vegetable stir-fry or fresh herb salad make an excellent pairing. You can also add spring rolls or a clear broth soup to round out the meal beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Making this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is like inviting a burst of sunshine into your kitchen. The fresh, aromatic flavors combine to create a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite that’s so easy to keep coming back to, perfect for sharing with family and friends alike. So go ahead, give this dish a whirl and watch it become an instant classic in your home.
Print
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including minimum 30-minute marination)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Description
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe offers a vibrant and aromatic dish featuring tender chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, and lime juice. Grilled or pan-cooked to perfection and garnished with fresh cilantro, it is a quick and delicious meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons lemongrass, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, and lime juice. Mix thoroughly to blend all the flavors together.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
- Rest Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender and moist.
- Serve and Garnish: Slice the chicken and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve it alongside steamed rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete Vietnamese-inspired meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate chicken overnight if time permits.
- If fresh lemongrass is unavailable, you can use frozen lemongrass or a high-quality lemongrass paste.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is properly cooked without drying out.
- This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice and lightly sautéed vegetables.
