Easy Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
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A fragrant and savory Vietnamese lemongrass chicken dish with hints of sweetness and citrus, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
- Author: Mayaa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-fry or Grill
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Diet: Halal
- 500g chicken thighs or chicken breast
- 2 stalks fresh lemongrass, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots or 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 chili, chopped (optional)
- Finely chop the lemongrass, garlic, and shallots.
- In a bowl, combine lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, vegetable oil, lime juice, and black pepper to make the marinade.
- Add the chicken and coat well with the marinade.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Heat a pan or grill over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken until caramelized on the outside and fully cooked inside, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
- Slice or serve whole, spooning remaining juices over the top.
Notes
- Fresh lemongrass provides the best flavor, but dried can be used in smaller amounts.
- Chicken thighs are juicier, while breast is leaner.
- For a lighter option, grill instead of pan-frying.
- Add grated ginger for extra warmth and depth.
- Finish under a broiler if baking for a charred effect.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it moist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg