As I stood by the grill, the enticing aroma of lemongrass mingled with the sizzling chicken, and I knew I was in for something special. This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is my go-to recipe for quick weeknight dinners and fun BBQ gatherings, guaranteed to impress family and friends alike. The magic lies in its simple marinade—crafted from aromatic lemongrass, garlic, and just the right touch of fish sauce—that elevates the chicken to juicy, grilled perfection in mere minutes. Not only is it quick and easy to whip up, but this versatile dish pairs beautifully with a bowl of fragrant rice or a vibrant plate of vermicelli noodles. Are you ready to discover how to bring this flavorful piece of Vietnamese cuisine to your dinner table?

Ready to Elevate Your Chicken Game?

Simplicity at its finest: The marinade requires just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavors that pop: Fresh lemongrass and garlic offer a burst of aromatic deliciousness unlike any ordinary chicken dish.
Versatility is key: Substitute chicken for pork or beef, or even tofu for a hearty vegetarian option!
Crowd pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this delightful, restaurant-quality dish at home. Pair with vermicelli noodles or rice for a complete meal. Don’t forget the refreshing Nuoc Cham for that extra zing!

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Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Ingredients

Get ready for a game-changing dish that will brighten your mealtime!

For the Marinade

Boneless Chicken Thighs – Juiciness and flavor are key; for a leaner option, substitute with chicken breasts.
Lemongrass – This ingredient adds a mild citrus aroma; fresh stalks are best, but frozen lemongrass works too.
Garlic – Fresh garlic provides essential depth, while powdered can be a substitute in a pinch.
Shallot – Bringing sweetness and complexity, you can use onion as an alternative if needed.
Fish Sauce – Introduces umami; soy sauce can be substituted for a vegetarian twist.
Dark Soy Sauce – Enhances color and adds flavor; regular soy sauce is an acceptable alternative.
Sugar – Balances flavors and promotes browning on the grill; consider brown sugar for a deeper taste.
Water – Helps to thin the marinade; coconut milk can add richness in place of water.

For the Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce

Garlic – Use fresh garlic for the best garlicky flavor; your taste buds will rejoice!
Fresh Lime Juice – Adds a burst of acidity; vinegar can be used if you don’t have limes.
Hot Water – Essential for dissolving sugar; please don’t substitute this one.
Chili Pepper (optional) – Add spice as desired; leave it out for a milder experience.
Grated Carrots (optional) – For added color and sweetness; you can omit this if you prefer.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
Begin by finely chopping the garlic and shallot; together, these will create a fragrant base. Bruise the fresh lemongrass stalks using the side of a knife, then chop into fine pieces. Combine these ingredients in a mixing bowl for the marinade, which will infuse the Vietnamese lemongrass chicken with vibrant flavor.

Step 2: Combine Marinade
In the bowl with the chopped aromatics, mix in the fish sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir thoroughly until the sugar dissolves, creating a smooth marinade. Add the boneless chicken thighs to the mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. For maximum flavor, cover and refrigerate this marinade for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or overnight if you desire a deeper taste.

Step 3: Prep for Grilling
After marinating, remove the chicken from the fridge and take out the aromatics to prevent burning on the grill. Lightly oil each piece of chicken with vegetable oil, which will help achieve a nice sear. Preheat your grill to medium heat; this temperature will give the Vietnamese lemongrass chicken a beautifully caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Grill Chicken
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken skin-side down on the grates. Grill for about 2-3 minutes until you see a golden sear form, then flip the chicken over. Continue grilling for an additional 5-8 minutes, checking for doneness; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be slightly charred.

Step 5: Rest Chicken
After grilling, remove the chicken from the BBQ and let it rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, ensuring every bite of your Vietnamese lemongrass chicken is juicy and flavorful.

Step 6: Make Nuoc Cham
While the chicken rests, prepare the nuoc cham dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, fresh lime juice, hot water, sugar, and fish sauce. Stir well, adjusting the flavor to your liking with additional lime or sugar if desired. This sauce will bring a refreshing zing to your grilled chicken.

Step 7: Serve
Slice the rested lemongrass chicken and serve it alongside vermicelli noodles or white rice. Garnish your plate with fresh cucumbers, sliced tomatoes, and a side of nuoc cham for dipping. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Vietnamese lemongrass chicken!

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also prepare the nuoc cham dipping sauce a day ahead, letting the flavors meld in the fridge for an even tastier experience. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the marinated chicken straight from the fridge, ensuring you achieve that delicious char without losing quality. This way, you’ll have flavorful, juicy grilled chicken with minimal effort on weeknights!

Expert Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Juicy Chicken: Ensure you use boneless thighs, as they remain more moist and flavorful compared to chicken breasts.

Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate overnight if possible. If short on time, 30 minutes will still impart great taste!

High Heat Caution: Monitor your grill temperature; too high can cause the sugar in the marinade to burn, compromising that gorgeous caramelization.

Resting is Key: Allow the chicken to rest after grilling for about 5 minutes to retain those delicious juices, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.

Cast Iron Option: If grilling isn’t an option, a preheated cast iron skillet can provide similar results for your Vietnamese lemongrass chicken!

Storage Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Fridge: Store marinated chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This keeps the flavors vibrant and fresh.

Cooked: Once grilled, keep leftover Vietnamese lemongrass chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer: If you want to freeze, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to maintain juiciness.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Variations

Invite your inner chef to explore delightful twists and substitutions for a unique dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

Pork or Beef: Swap chicken for pork or beef in the marinade for a heartier meal. Each option provides a different flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the lemongrass.
Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian delight, replace chicken with extra-firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate and grill these protein-packed alternatives for a satisfying dish that’s rich in protein.
Coconut Milk: Replace water with coconut milk in the marinade to infuse a rich, tropical flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced chili peppers to the marinade for those who crave heat; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for the perfect balance.
Brown Sugar Twist: Use brown sugar instead of regular sugar in the marinade for a deeper, molasses-like flavor that enhances the grilled chicken’s caramelization.
Herbs Galore: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro and mint in the marinade for an aromatic boost that adds brightness and freshness to the dish.
Marinade Variations: Experiment with different combinations of sauces such as hoisin or teriyaki to create a delicious fusion of flavors. The possibilities are endless with such simple swaps!

Enhance your meal with a refreshing side of nuoc cham or serve alongside a colorful plate of vermicelli noodles for a satisfying experience that’s sure to impress.

What to Serve with Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Imagine a vibrant table filled with colorful, delicious sides that elevate your grilled lemongrass chicken into a memorable meal.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and fragrant aroma of jasmine rice make it a perfect canvas for soaking up the chicken’s flavorful juices.
Vermicelli Noodles: Light and chewy, these noodles provide a refreshing base for the lemongrass chicken, especially when topped with fresh herbs and veggies.
Crisp Cucumber Salad: The cool, crunchy cucumbers dressed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing complement the spicy notes of the chicken, adding a refreshing contrast.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant bring a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory marinated chicken.
Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce not only enhances the chicken’s flavor but also provides a delicious way to bring your sides together.
Mango and Pineapple Salsa: The tropical sweetness of diced mango and pineapple offers a delightful contrast to the savory lemongrass chicken, brightening your plate.
Coconut Water: Refreshing and subtly sweet, this beverage perfectly balances the bold flavors of your meal without overwhelming the palate.
Lime Sorbet for Dessert: This light and zesty dessert acts as a perfect palate cleanser after your savory feast, ending the meal on a refreshing note.
Iced Green Tea: The earthy flavors of green tea promote relaxation and perfectly harmonize with the spices in the lemongrass chicken.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right lemongrass for cooking?
Absolutely! When selecting lemongrass, look for fresh stalks that are firm with a vibrant green color. The base should be plump and fragrant. Avoid stalks with dark spots or a dry appearance, as this indicates age. If fresh lemongrass isn’t available, you can use frozen lemongrass as a suitable substitute.

What is the best way to store marinated chicken?
For sure! Store your marinated Vietnamese lemongrass chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Ensure it’s covered tightly to keep the marinade fresh and flavorful. If you won’t be cooking it within that timeframe, consider freezing it instead.

Can I freeze cooked Vietnamese lemongrass chicken?
Very much so! To freeze your cooked chicken, let it cool to room temperature first. Then, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Label it with the date, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven or on the stovetop!

What should I do if the chicken isn’t grilling as expected?
No problem at all! If your chicken isn’t grilling well, make sure you preheat the grill adequately to medium heat before adding the chicken. It’s essential to oil the chicken lightly to prevent sticking, and allow enough space between pieces. If it’s cooking too quickly or burning, moving it to a cooler side of the grill can help manage the heat.

Is this recipe safe for people with fish allergies?
Great question! Since the marinade includes fish sauce, which may cause issues for those with fish allergies, a good alternative is to use soy sauce or coconut aminos. Both options will maintain the depth of flavor while keeping the dish safe for anyone with dietary restrictions. Additionally, always consult with your doctor regarding allergy concerns.