Authentic Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

The scent of zesty lemongrass wafts through the air as you imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken marinated in a symphony of spices. This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe transports you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam with each mouthful.

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Picture this: it’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and your kitchen becomes a mini culinary adventure park. You’re about to create a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes your loved ones swoon with delight.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how they had never tasted anything like it before.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Using 3-4 pieces is ideal for serving 4 people; adjust as needed for your crew.
• Lemongrass: Fresh stalks are key; look for firm ones with a bright green hue and aromatic scent.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add bold flavor; choose firm bulbs for the best taste.
• Fresh Ginger: A small piece of ginger will give an aromatic warmth; peel and grate it finely.
• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while maintaining rich flavor.
• Brown Sugar: It balances the salty soy sauce perfectly; light or dark works well here.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the marinade beautifully; squeeze right before use for maximum freshness.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds subtle heat; don’t skimp on this spice!
• Cilantro (for garnish): This aromatic herb adds color and freshness when sprinkled on top before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Start by prepping your chicken. Place your boneless skinless chicken breasts on a cutting board and slice them into thin strips or bite-sized chunks to maximize flavor absorption.

Prepare the marinade by combining minced lemongrass, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until fully blended and fragrant.

Add the chicken pieces into the marinade mixture ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours if you want to deepen those flavors.

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. If using a grill, lightly oil grates to prevent sticking. If using a skillet, add a splash of oil before adding the marinated chicken.

Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Keep an eye out for that beautiful caramelization!

Finally, serve your lemongrass chicken warm over steamed rice or in fresh lettuce wraps garnished with cilantro leaves. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least one hour, preferably overnight. Sear it in a hot pan to lock in moisture, then finish cooking it on lower heat for juicy results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option. Adding some sliced chili or extra lime juice can also elevate the flavors significantly.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Cooking this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken takes me back to my first culinary class, where I was smitten by its aromatic charm. The compliments from friends after serving it still echo fondly in my heart.

FAQ

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor.

Can I use dried lemongrass instead of fresh?

Fresh lemongrass provides a more vibrant flavor than dried; it’s highly recommended.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully without losing flavor.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

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• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with this easy-to-make lemongrass chicken dish that’s perfect for any dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 stalks fresh lemongrass, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. 1. Slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. 2. In a bowl, mix minced lemongrass, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and black pepper to create the marinade.
3. 3. Coat the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. 4. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil if necessary.
5. 5. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
6. 6. Serve warm over rice or in lettuce wraps garnished with cilantro.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling/Frying
• Cuisine: Vietnamese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 265
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 870mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 109mg