Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

There’s something truly special about Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken. It’s a dish that brings together bold flavors, vibrant aromas, and a comforting sense of home. Whether you’ve had it in a bustling Vietnamese restaurant or enjoyed it at a family gathering, this dish has a way of making an impression.

Lemongrass is the star here, infusing the chicken with a citrusy, slightly earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with the balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors. It’s a dish that works well for weeknight dinners, yet feels fancy enough to serve guests. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home, with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

In Vietnam, lemongrass chicken is often served with steamed rice, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce like nước chấm. It’s a perfect example of how Vietnamese cuisine balances flavors—savory, sweet, sour, and a touch of spice. Every bite delivers a taste of warmth and comfort, making it a go-to recipe for anyone who loves bold yet balanced flavors.

Let’s dive into making this fragrant, mouthwatering dish at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of lemongrass, garlic, and a perfectly balanced marinade ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, in a banh mi sandwich, or as a protein-packed salad topping.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Made with simple, fresh ingredients, it’s a great choice for a balanced meal.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 3 stalks lemongrass, finely minced (tender white parts only)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (for cooking)
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra tenderness)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Steamed jasmine rice, for serving
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, or mint), for garnish

How to Make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken & Marinade

For the best flavor, start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallot, soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, honey, black pepper, sesame oil, and cornstarch (if using). Mix well.

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, marinating for a few hours (or even overnight) will deepen the flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer, letting them sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This helps achieve a nice golden-brown crust.

Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until fully cooked. If needed, lower the heat slightly to prevent burning while allowing the chicken to cook through.

Step 3: Let It Rest & Slice

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices. Then, slice the chicken into strips or leave it whole, depending on how you’d like to serve it.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken over a bowl of steamed jasmine rice, garnished with fresh herbs. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some extra chili flakes on top.

For an authentic touch, pair it with a side of nước chấm (Vietnamese dipping sauce) for extra flavor.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass gives the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen minced lemongrass is a great substitute.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing, leading to less caramelization.
• Let the Chicken Marinate: While 30 minutes works, marinating for a few hours or overnight will make the flavors even richer.
• Customize the Heat Level: Adjust the chili flakes to your spice preference, or leave them out for a milder dish.
• Try Different Serving Styles: This chicken is amazing in rice bowls, noodle dishes, lettuce wraps, or even inside a Vietnamese-style sandwich (banh mi).

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or longer for deeper flavor)
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-frying
• Cuisine: Vietnamese
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free soy sauce)

Notes

• If using frozen lemongrass, let it thaw before mixing it into the marinade.
• For extra crispy edges, use a cast-iron skillet or grill the chicken instead of pan-frying.
• Leftovers taste amazing! Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in a pan for the best texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g

(Note: Nutrition info is approximate and varies based on ingredient brands.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! While chicken thighs are juicier, chicken breast works too. Just be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out more easily.

What if I can’t find lemongrass?

Fresh lemongrass adds the best flavor, but if it’s unavailable, you can use lemongrass paste (found in many grocery stores) or frozen minced lemongrass.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can add more chili flakes or serve it with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just preheat the grill, cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, and baste with extra marinade for a flavorful char.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover lemongrass chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Related Recipes

If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:

• Chicken Fajita Rice Bowl

• Greek Chicken Tzatziki Bowls – A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

Conclusion

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress. With its fragrant aroma, juicy texture, and perfectly balanced flavors, it’s a meal that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

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