Introduction

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a dish that transports you to the bustling streets of Vietnam, where the air is filled with the vibrant scents of fresh herbs and sizzling street food. This aromatic dish blends the savory richness of chicken with the fresh, zesty flavors of lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce. The marinade works its magic, infusing the chicken with layers of complex flavors that make every bite a savory delight. The tender, juicy chicken is then charred to perfection, creating a slight crispness that contrasts beautifully with the fresh herbs and side dishes.

The first time I made Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, I was amazed at how easily the ingredients came together to create something so flavorful. As the chicken marinated in the fragrant mixture, the kitchen smelled incredible—like a fusion of bold and refreshing flavors that instantly made me crave the dish. When I took the first bite, the explosion of flavors was unlike anything I had experienced before. The balance of salty, sweet, and sour from the fish sauce, lemongrass, and other spices was absolutely perfect.

What I love most about Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is how adaptable it is. While it’s traditionally served with steamed rice and pickled vegetables, you can easily pair it with a fresh herb salad or enjoy it in a banh mi sandwich. You can also adjust the level of heat by adding more or less chili, depending on your spice preference. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is sure to leave a lasting impression and introduce you to the unforgettable flavors of Vietnam.

Perfect for:

Family dinners
Casual gatherings
Weeknight meals
Vietnamese cuisine lovers
Grilled chicken enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Here’s why Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a must-try dish:

Fragrant and Flavorful: The fresh lemongrass and other aromatic ingredients like garlic and ginger infuse the chicken with a complex, irresistible flavor.
Versatile: It pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from rice to fresh herbs, making it easy to customize your meal.
Quick and Easy: This dish requires minimal prep time, especially if you marinate the chicken ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
Grilled or Pan-Fried: Whether you grill or pan-fry the chicken, it comes out tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Healthy and Light: With a focus on fresh ingredients and lean protein, this dish is both flavorful and light, perfect for a balanced meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

To make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus more for cooking)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice)
Fresh cilantro for garnish
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

Lemongrass: A key ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine, lemongrass adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that’s both aromatic and bright.
Fish Sauce: This fermented condiment provides an essential umami flavor, adding depth and richness to the marinade.
Ginger and Garlic: These ingredients bring warmth and spice, complementing the freshness of lemongrass and balancing the savory marinade.
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are used for their juiciness and tenderness, absorbing the marinade beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken:

Marinate the Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), lime juice, and chili flakes (if using). Stir until the honey or sugar is fully dissolved.
Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Marinate: Refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cook the Chicken:

Preheat the Grill or Pan: If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. For pan-frying, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Grill the Chicken: If grilling, cook the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If pan-frying, cook the chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally until golden and cooked through.
Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or serving whole.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish: Top the chicken with freshly chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, and extra lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.
Serve: Serve the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh herb salad for a well-rounded meal.

How to Serve Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is best served with a variety of sides and garnishes:

With Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a satisfying, hearty meal.
With Fresh Vegetables: Pair with fresh, crunchy vegetables like pickled carrots and daikon radish, or a cucumber salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
With Noodles: You can also serve it with rice noodles for a different texture and flavor profile.
Wrap in Lettuce: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken in lettuce wraps with herbs and dipping sauce.
With a Side of Dipping Sauce: Pair with a side of Vietnamese dipping sauce (nuoc cham) for extra flavor and tang.

Additional Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Here are some tips to ensure your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is flavorful and tender every time:

Let the Chicken Marinate: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors fully develop. For best results, marinate overnight.
Use Fresh Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass provides the most intense flavor, but if you can’t find it, you can substitute with lemongrass paste or powder.
Grill or Pan-Fry: Both methods work well, but grilling imparts a slightly smoky flavor, while pan-frying gives a crisp exterior.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the chili flakes, or reduce the amount for a gentle kick.
Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain its juices before slicing or serving.
Balance the Flavors: Taste the marinade before applying it to the chicken, and adjust the seasoning with additional fish sauce, soy sauce, or lime juice if needed.

Recipe Variations for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Here are 10 variations to try with Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken:

Lemongrass Pork: Swap the chicken for pork tenderloin or pork chops for a different protein option.
Spicy Lemongrass Chicken: Add more chili flakes or fresh sliced Thai bird’s eye chilies to the marinade for extra heat.
Lemongrass Tofu: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu, ensuring it’s pressed and well-marinated.
Coconut Lemongrass Chicken: Add coconut milk to the marinade for a creamy, tropical twist on the classic recipe.
Lemongrass Beef: Use flank steak or sirloin strips instead of chicken for a beef version of this dish.
Lemongrass Shrimp: Marinate shrimp instead of chicken for a quick, flavorful seafood version of this dish.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers for easy grilling and serving.
Lemongrass Chicken Stir-Fry: Slice the chicken and stir-fry it with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and snow peas for a quick, flavorful meal.
Lemongrass Chicken Salad: Serve the grilled chicken atop a bed of mixed greens, fresh herbs, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh, healthy salad.
Lemongrass Chicken Soup: Add the grilled chicken to a broth with mushrooms, noodles, and herbs for a comforting Vietnamese-inspired soup.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: If you have leftover marinated chicken, freeze it in an airtight container before cooking. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as usual.
Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Special Equipment for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Here are some special equipment items you’ll need to make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken:

Grill or Grill Pan: A grill or grill pan helps achieve that beautiful char on the chicken, enhancing the flavor.
Large Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing the marinade and tossing the chicken in it.
Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for finely chopping lemongrass and slicing the cooked chicken.
Skillet or Frying Pan: If pan-frying the chicken, a large, heavy skillet works best for even cooking.
Basting Brush: A basting brush is useful for applying the marinade to the chicken evenly while grilling.

FAQ Section for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily, so be careful not to overcook them.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, marinate it overnight in the fridge.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before marinating and cooking.
Can I make this dish without fish sauce?
If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute with soy sauce, though the flavor will be slightly different.
What can I serve this chicken with?
This chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh herb salad.

Conclusion

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a vibrant dish that brings the bold flavors of Vietnam right to your table. The marinade, infused with lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce, creates a mouthwatering balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that are truly unforgettable. Whether you choose to grill or pan-fry the chicken, it turns out tender, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. This dish is perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions.

With its easy preparation and versatile nature, Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken can be served with a variety of sides, such as jasmine rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. You can even customize the marinade by adjusting the level of heat or sweetness to suit your taste preferences. No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to become a crowd-pleaser in your kitchen.

I can’t wait to see how your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations! Feel free to leave a comment or share any variations you made to the recipe. Enjoy!