Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a vibrant, aromatic dish that brings together the fresh and bold flavors of lemongrass, garlic, lime, and fish sauce. The chicken is marinated in this fragrant mixture, grilled to perfection, and served over rice or with your favorite vegetables for a delicious and healthy meal. With its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and zesty, this dish will transport your taste buds straight to Vietnam!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is not only full of fresh and exciting flavors, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. The marinated chicken becomes juicy and flavorful, while the grill or skillet creates a deliciously crispy exterior. The combination of lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, and lime juice gives the chicken a savory-sweet tang that pairs beautifully with a bed of rice or fresh vegetables. It’s a quick and healthy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful weekend meal.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons lemongrass, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fish sauce
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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Fresh cilantro, for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a bowl, combine the lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, and lime juice. Mix until well combined.
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Marinate the chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak in.
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Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Remove the chicken from the grill or skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with a side of vegetables.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
Variations
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Add heat: If you like it spicy, you can add chopped fresh chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little extra kick.
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Use chicken thighs: For a juicier option, you can swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.
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Grill it: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of cooking it on the stove. The char from the grill adds extra depth to the dish.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. You can also chop it up and add it to a stir-fry or salad.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried lemongrass if I don’t have fresh?
While fresh lemongrass is ideal for this recipe, you can use dried lemongrass as a substitute. Just use about 1 teaspoon of dried lemongrass in place of the 2 tablespoons of fresh lemongrass.
2. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating.
4. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. What should I serve with this chicken?
This dish is perfect with a side of jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables for added crunch.
6. Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes, this marinade works well with other meats like , shrimp, or beef. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the meat you’re using.
7. Can I make this recipe without fish sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or coconut aminos for a vegetarian-friendly option.
8. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add fresh chopped chili peppers or a teaspoon of chili paste to the marinade for a spicier kick.
9. Can I use lime zest in the marinade?
Yes, lime zest will enhance the citrus flavor of the marinade and add a wonderful aroma. Feel free to add 1 teaspoon of lime zest to the mixture.
10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Conclusion
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Vietnam to your table. With its fragrant marinade and tender chicken, this dish is sure to impress anyone who loves fresh, aromatic flavors. Serve it over rice or with a side of veggies, and you’ve got a healthy, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the fresh and zesty flavors of Vietnamese cuisine!
Print
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a vibrant, aromatic dish featuring juicy, marinated chicken with fresh lemongrass, garlic, lime, and fish sauce. Grilled or pan-seared to perfection, this flavorful recipe delivers a delicious balance of savory, sweet, and zesty in every bite. Served over rice or with vegetables, it’s a quick and healthy dinner that will transport your taste buds to Vietnam.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
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In a bowl, combine the lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, and lime juice. Mix well.
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Marinate the chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
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Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with vegetables.
Notes
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Variations: For extra heat, add chopped fresh chili or red pepper flakes to the marinade. Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilled or Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Diet: Gluten Free
