Name: Savory Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken for Memorable Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 stalks Lemongrass (finely chopped); 4 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 medium Shallots (chopped); 3 tablespoons Fish Sauce (for umami flavor); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (low-sodium preferred); 1 tablespoon Sugar (brown sugar recommended); 1 kilogram Chicken Thighs (dark meat for best flavor)

As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant scent of lemongrass wafted past me, instantly transporting me to a bustling Vietnamese market. This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe is a fragrant celebration of savory flavors and tender, juicy chicken thighs, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a memorable gathering with friends. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its bright, aromatic profile but also in its quick prep and grill-friendly nature—making it a true weeknight lifesaver. With just a short marinating time, you’ll have a stunning meal that delights the senses without overwhelming your schedule. Are you ready to fire up the grill and let your taste buds take a delicious journey?

Why is this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken irresistible?

Bold flavors come alive with the aromatic blend of lemongrass, garlic, and shallots in this dish, transforming ordinary chicken into an extraordinary experience. Quick prep means you can serve a gourmet meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile pairings like steamed jasmine rice or fresh spring rolls let you customize your serving style. Plus, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, impressive enough for guests yet simple for a family dinner. Don’t forget to check out my Avocado Chicken Salad for another delightful option!

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to create deliciousness with these essential ingredients!

For the Marinade

Lemongrass – a key aromatic ingredient that infuses the chicken with a fresh citrus fragrance.
Garlic – enhances flavor depth; using fresh cloves provides maximum flavor impact.
Shallots – adds sweetness and complexity; can substitute with onions if needed but adjust the quantity accordingly.
Fish Sauce – contributes umami and saltiness; essential for authentic flavor but can be replaced with soy sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
Soy Sauce – serves as a savory base; opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Sugar – balances savory flavors and aids in caramelization; consider brown sugar for a richer flavor profile.

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – recommended for juiciness and flavor; dark meat yields a softer texture compared to white meat, which can dry out.

With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to crafting a stunning Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken dish that will impress any palate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, chopped shallots, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade, ensuring they are well-covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C). This temperature is key to preventing the marinade’s sugars from burning. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oil them to prevent sticking. Get your spatula and tongs ready for easy handling of the chicken.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grates. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin becomes golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken, reducing the heat if necessary, and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.

Step 4: Rest and Serve
After grilling, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful. Slice the chicken as desired and serve with steamed jasmine rice, vermicelli noodles, or fresh Vietnamese spring rolls for a vibrant meal featuring your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken.

Expert Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Marination Magic: Make sure to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but for deeper flavor, consider marinating up to 24 hours. This allows the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken to absorb all the delicious aromatics.
Grill Temperature: Always preheat your grill to medium heat. This prevents burning the sugars in the marinade, ensuring a perfect caramelized exterior without charring.
Don’t Overcrowd: When grilling, avoid placing too many chicken thighs on the grill at once. This can lower the grill temperature, leading to uneven cooking.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Keep an eye on the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked and juicy.
Resting Time: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Versatile Leftovers: Use any leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken in stir-fries, salads, or as a filling for banh mi sandwiches for quick and delicious meal options.

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken preparations are fantastic for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the bold flavors to fully infuse. To do this, follow the marinating instructions and place the coated chicken in a sealed container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator. If you wish to prep even further ahead, consider chopping the lemongrass, garlic, and shallots up to 3 days in advance and storing them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to grill, simply take the marinated chicken out, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then grill as instructed for a mesmerizing meal that tastes just as delicious!

What to Serve with Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Create a vibrant meal that takes your taste buds on a flavorful journey with delightful pairings.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and subtle sweetness of jasmine rice perfectly balance the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a comforting foundation.
Fresh Spring Rolls: Crisp veggies and fresh herbs wrapped in rice paper provide a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken, offering an exciting crunch with each bite.
Cucumber Salad: Light and crunchy, a cucumber salad adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the grilled chicken and invigorates the palate.
Vietnamese Noodle Salad: A colorful bowl of vermicelli noodles, vibrant greens, and a zesty dressing makes for a complete meal, enhancing the dish’s fresh herbaceous notes.
Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: This traditional sauce, with its sweet, sour, and salty dimensions, complements the grilled chicken, adding a zesty kick for those who love an extra layer of flavor.
Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini charred on the grill provide a smoky flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the sweet and aromatic chicken.
Thai Iced Tea: The creamy, sweet notes of Thai iced tea can be the perfect complement, offering a delightful contrast to the savory taste of the dish.
Coconut Rice Pudding: End your meal on a sweet note with coconut rice pudding; its rich, creamy texture pairs nicely with the spiced essence of lemongrass chicken.
Mango Sticky Rice: This traditional dessert offers an irresistible sweetness and a sticky comfort that rounds out the meal beautifully, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this delicious dish your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Simply leave out the fish sauce and substitute with coconut aminos for a rich, umami flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers to the marinade for an exciting heat that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes. A little heat really gets the taste buds dancing!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh cilantro or mint into your marinade for an added herbaceous freshness that elevates the dish. It brings a garden-like essence to each bite.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken thighs with firm tofu or tempeh. Ensure to press and marinate the tofu for maximum flavor absorption, creating a hearty and satisfying vegetarian meal.
Grilled Vegetable Medley: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to the grill alongside the chicken. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color and texture to the plate.
Tangy Glaze: Mix in some lime juice and zest into the marinade for an extra zing that brightens the dish, making each bite burst with flavor. The freshness of lime always brings a smile!
Ban Mi Style: Serve the grilled chicken in a banh mi with crunchy pickled veggies and fresh herbs for a fun and fulfilling twist. It’s like bringing a piece of Vietnam to your kitchen!
Quick Stir-Fry: Use leftover chicken in a stir-fry with bell peppers, broccoli, and a splash of soy sauce for a fast weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the taste of lemongrass in a new format.

For more delightful chicken dishes, don’t miss my Bruschetta Chicken Pasta and Oven Baked Chicken recipes that your family will love!

How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the chicken juicy while maintaining its delightful flavor.
Freezer: Freeze any leftover chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, for the best texture.
Make-Ahead: The marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows for deeper flavor infusion, making your meal even more enjoyable!

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best lemongrass?
Look for fresh lemongrass stalks that are firm, pale green to light yellow in color, and fragrant. Avoid any that are dried out or discolored. If you can bend the stalk without it breaking, it’s fresh! For the best flavor, use it the same week you purchase it.

How should I store leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before sealing. This will keep it juicy and flavorful while stored.

Can I freeze Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap first to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if the chicken is dry after grilling?
If your chicken ends up dry, it may have been grilled too long or at too high a heat. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C). To rescue dry pieces, consider slicing them and tossing with a bit of chicken broth or a flavorful sauce to moisten.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, but always check the ingredient labels! Fish sauce contains anchovies, which may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies. You can easily substitute it with soy sauce for a vegetarian option. If you’re concerned about specific allergens, feel free to replace the ingredients as needed.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes! In fact, marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor as the lemongrass and spices deeply penetrate the meat. Just make sure to store it in a sealed container in the fridge, and remember to grill it the next day!