The Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is an absolute delight that’s packed full of fragrant citrus notes and a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. This dish exudes the fresh, vibrant essence of traditional Vietnamese cuisine while remaining incredibly approachable for home cooks. Once you master the art of marinating and grilling this chicken, you’ll have a go-to recipe that’s juicy, tender, and bursting with that unmistakable lemongrass aroma. Whether you’re firing up the grill in the backyard or using a grill pan inside, this recipe guarantees a flavorful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a distinct role in layering the delicious taste, texture, and color of this Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe. From the zesty lime juice to the aromatic lemongrass and savory fish sauce, every element combines to create a harmonious flavor profile.
- 2 stalks lemongrass (tender white part only): This is the star flavor that imparts a citrusy, lemony aroma essential to authentic Vietnamese dishes.
- 1 large shallot (thinly sliced, skin removed): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth that balances the marinade perfectly.
- 4 large garlic cloves: Offers pungency and richness, giving the chicken a robust backbone of flavor.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Provides bright acidity to lighten the marinade and tenderize the meat.
- Zest of 1 lime: Boosts citrus notes and adds a vibrant burst of fragrance.
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar: Balances the tart lime with subtle sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken during grilling.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the chicken moist and prevents sticking, also helping to blend the marinade evenly.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Introduces umami and a light salty note, enhancing the overall savory taste.
- 2 teaspoons fish sauce: The quintessential Vietnamese seasoning that contributes a deep, savory complexity.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, chicken thighs are ideal for grilling and absorbing the bold marinade flavors.
How to Make Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemongrass and Marinade
Start by finely mincing the tender white parts of the lemongrass—this ensures the vibrant citrus flavor is fully released into your marinade. Combine the minced lemongrass with the thinly sliced shallots, crushed garlic cloves, fresh lime juice and zest, light brown sugar, vegetable oil, soy sauce, and fish sauce in a mixing bowl. Stir everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well incorporated. This marinade is the heart of the Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe, so take your time to blend it perfectly.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a shallow dish or zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the fridge for more intense flavor. The combination of lime juice and fish sauce not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it, guaranteeing juicy perfection after grilling.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting excess drip off to avoid flare-ups. Grill the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and lightly charred. The sugars from the brown sugar will caramelize beautifully, locking in the juices and creating that irresistible grilled texture and flavor the Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is famous for.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures every bite is tender and flavorful. Serve the chicken hot, and prepare yourself for a meal that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
How to Serve Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint perfectly complement the lemongrass-infused chicken by adding bursts of herbaceous brightness. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely nutty crunch, while sliced red chilies or a drizzle of chili oil offer a gentle kick if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice, which help soak up the delicious juices. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a crisp Vietnamese-style slaw with shredded carrots, daikon, and a tangy fish sauce dressing. Light, fresh, and balanced sides will elevate the whole meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the grilled chicken and serving it atop a bowl of vermicelli noodles with herbs, crushed peanuts, and pickled vegetables for a traditional Vietnamese experience. Alternatively, wrap the chicken in warm lettuce leaves or rice paper with herbs and dipping sauce for a playful, hand-held version. Either way, presentation enhances the fun and flavor of this dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled Vietnamese lemongrass chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the leftovers cold in salads or reheated for a quick dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save the chicken for longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooked chicken in a sealed freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool the chicken completely before freezing to maintain the best quality.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep it tender and juicy. Avoid microwaving straight from the freezer; instead, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming. A splash of water or broth during reheating helps retain moisture and prevents the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor absorption, chicken breasts can work too. Just be careful not to overcook them, as breasts dry out faster on the grill.
Is lemongrass difficult to prepare?
Not at all! You just need to peel away the tough outer layers until you reach the tender white core, which you then finely mince. It’s well worth the little effort for the fragrant flavor it adds to the marinade.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or even broil the chicken in the oven. Just watch the cooking closely to avoid burning the sugars in the marinade and aim for that nice charred flavor.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
A minimum of 30 minutes is required to let the flavors develop, but marinating up to 4 hours in the fridge will give the chicken a deeper, more vibrant taste.
What can I serve with this chicken for a complete meal?
Pair it with jasmine rice or vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, a crisp salad, and perhaps some pickled vegetables. These sides keep the meal balanced, fresh, and authentically Vietnamese.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to make the Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe, it’s time to bring those vibrant, mouthwatering flavors to your kitchen. This dish is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can create a memorable meal. Trust me, once you taste the juicy, aromatic chicken fresh off the grill, this recipe will become one you turn to again and again. Happy grilling!
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Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Description
This Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of lemongrass, garlic, shallots, lime, and traditional Vietnamese seasonings. Perfectly grilled to achieve a slightly charred exterior and juicy interior, this recipe brings the authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine right to your table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 2 stalks lemongrass (tender white part only, finely chopped)
- 1 large shallot (thinly sliced, skin removed)
- 4 large garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons fish sauce
Main Ingredient
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a food processor or mortar and pestle, finely chop the lemongrass, shallot, and garlic until you form a coarse paste. Transfer this paste to a mixing bowl and add the fresh lime juice, lime zest, brown sugar, vegetable oil, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Whisk everything together to combine thoroughly.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Massage the marinade into the chicken ensuring every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1-2 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (204°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the thighs on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through with a nice charred exterior.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to redistribute the juices. Serve the lemongrass chicken hot with steamed rice, fresh herbs, and a side of pickled vegetables or salad for a complete Vietnamese-inspired meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- If you don’t have a grill, the chicken can be cooked under a broiler or in a grill pan on the stovetop.
- Lemongrass can be tough to chop; using only the tender white parts ensures better texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar depending on your preferred balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
