Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fragrant, vibrant flavors and tender juiciness, this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is an absolute must-try. Featuring 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a harmonious blend of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes. It’s a simple yet show-stopping way to enjoy chicken thighs in a way that feels both comforting and exotic. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish never fails to bring warmth and excitement to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of ingredients that are both simple and essential—each one carefully chosen to complement the others and create an irresistible flavor profile. From the zesty lemongrass to the punch of garlic and the umami depth of fish sauce, every element plays a delicious role.

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
• 2 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that defines the dish’s signature flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings robust, savory warmth to the marinade.
• 2 shallots, finely chopped: Offers subtle sweetness and a mild onion note that balances the sharpness.
• 2 tbsp fish sauce: Delivers a deep umami boost that’s essential in Vietnamese cooking.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce: Enhances the savory profile with additional depth.
• 1 tbsp sugar: Provides just enough sweetness to harmonize the flavors.
• 1 tbsp lime juice: Lends a tangy brightness that wakes up the marinade.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Used for cooking, helping to crisp and caramelize the chicken.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal finish that lifts the dish.
• Sliced chilies for garnish (optional): Perfect if you want to add a little spicy kick.

How to Make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by finely chopping your lemongrass, mincing the garlic, and dicing the shallots. In a medium bowl, combine these aromatics with fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and lime juice. This marinade is where all the magic begins, immediately infusing your chicken thighs with layers of fantastic flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl with your marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly coat each piece, ensuring no bite will be left bland. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—if you have time, 2 hours is even better to let those flavors really sink in.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat until shimmering. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the pan, cooking them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You’ll want to achieve a gorgeous golden brown crust while making sure the chicken is cooked through and juicy inside. This step seals in all that bright, tangy flavor from the marinade.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, so each piece stays moist and tender when you slice it. After resting, slice the chicken against the grain for the best texture and presentation.

How to Serve Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro over the top adds a lovely, vibrant herbal note that pairs wonderfully with the zesty lemongrass. If you like a bit of heat, add thin slices of fresh chili to bring a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tangy marinade.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when served with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice, which is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinade juices. Lightly sautéed greens or a fresh cucumber salad add texture and a cooling balance to the fragrant chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Try turning your 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs into a vibrant banh mi sandwich with pickled vegetables and fresh herbs. Alternatively, serve the sliced chicken over a bed of vermicelli noodles topped with crushed peanuts and a drizzle of nuoc cham for a delicious, noodle bowl twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, cool any leftover chicken to room temperature and store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinner next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s best to freeze it within 2 hours of cooking and use it within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture retention. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the tender thighs, diminishing that wonderful texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs?

While chicken breasts are leaner, they don’t absorb marinades quite as well as thighs and can dry out more easily during cooking. Using thighs ensures juiciness and flavor that truly make this dish shine.

Is it okay to marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight intensifies the flavors, making the chicken even more delicious. Just be sure to keep it covered and refrigerated for safety.

What can I substitute for lemongrass if I can’t find it?

Fresh lemongrass is key for authentic flavor, but if unavailable, a combination of lemon zest and ginger can provide a bright, aromatic alternative, though the flavor won’t be quite the same.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which are both gluten-free, and you’ll still enjoy all the wonderful flavors.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild by default, especially if you skip the optional sliced chilies. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Cooking with 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs in this vibrant Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to infuse your weeknight meals with exciting new flavors. It’s simple to prepare, utterly delicious, and sure to become one of your favorite go-to chicken dishes. Give it a try and watch how this humble chicken thigh transforms into a star of your dinner table!

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