Name: Savory Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken: Easy BBQ Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2-3 cloves Garlic (finely chopped); 1 Shallot (finely chopped); 1-2 stalks Lemongrass (use only tender parts); 2 tablespoons Fish Sauce; 2 tablespoons Dark Soy Sauce (or regular soy sauce); 1 tablespoon Sugar (brown sugar for richness); 2 tablespoons Water (optional for thinner marinade); 1.5 pounds Boneless Chicken Thighs (preferred for moisture and flavor)

As I flipped through my cookbook, one recipe jumped off the pages—a vibrant Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken that instantly transported me to bustling Asian markets alive with tantalizing aromas. This dish is not only quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for a busy weeknight, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser, ideal for outdoor barbecues with friends and family. Marinated with zesty lemongrass, garlic, and shallots, the chicken emerges from the grill juicy and tender, boasting a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Plus, it’s gluten-free if you opt for the right soy sauce! Ready to take your taste buds on an aromatic journey? Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe together!

Why is Lemongrass Chicken a Must-Try?

Vibrant Flavors: The zesty marination with lemongrass and garlic brings a refreshing twist that awakens your taste buds.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish can be whipped up in no time, meaning you won’t have to resort to fast food again!

Crowd-Pleasing: Impress family and friends with easy BBQ cooking that sparks joy and a taste of Vietnamese cuisine.

Versatile Choices: Feel free to switch things up by using pork or beef, allowing you to cater to different palates easily.

Got leftover chicken? Pair it with some vermicelli noodles or steamed rice for a delightful meal! Trust me, once you try this Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, you’ll be hooked.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Lemongrass – Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor; use only the tender parts of the stalk.
• Garlic – Provides deep flavor; fresh garlic yields the best result.
• Shallot – Offers a sweet and mild onion flavor; can be substituted with a small onion if needed.
• Fish Sauce – Introduces umami richness; essential for authenticity, but can be omitted for a vegetarian option.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Adds color and depth; regular soy sauce is a lighter alternative.
• Sugar – Balances the flavors; brown sugar can enhance the richness.
• Water – Thins out the marinade; skip it for a thicker consistency.

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs (boneless) – Preferred for moisture and flavor; dark meat remains juicy during grilling.

Now that you have the delicious ingredients ready for your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, it’s time to marinade and get grilling for a delightful meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by finely chopping 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic, 1 shallot, and the tender parts of 1-2 stalks of lemongrass. Ensure you discard the tough, outer layers of the lemongrass to get to the fragrant heart. This aromatic blend will create a flavorful marinade that sets the stage for your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped garlic, shallots, and lemongrass with 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Pour in 2 tablespoons of water if you prefer a thinner marinade. Stir well to mix all the ingredients, creating a fragrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with flavor.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add 1.5 pounds of boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour. For a deeper flavor, refrigerate it overnight. The longer the chicken soaks in the marinade, the more vibrant the flavors will be.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F. This helps create those beautiful grill marks while maintaining moisture in the chicken. Make sure to oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking. Your grill should be hot and ready to produce perfectly grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and lightly coat each piece with oil. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for a nice char on the outside and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken
Once grilled to perfection, transfer the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken to a platter and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. After resting, slice the chicken against the grain, ready to serve with your favorite sides.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative with your dish by customizing it with these exciting twists that will tantalize your taste buds!

Pork or Beef: Swap chicken for pork or beef, using the same marinade for a delicious variation.
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or Thai chili to the marinade for an extra zing!
Coconut Cream: Mix in a bit of coconut cream for a richer marinade, adding a luscious texture and flavor.
Herb Boost: Include fresh cilantro or basil in the marinade for a fragrant herbal twist that complements the lemongrass beautifully.
Vegetarian Option: Try replacing the protein with tofu, marinating it the same way for a hearty vegetarian delight.
Citrus Twist: Add the zest of a lime or orange to the marinade for a bright, citrusy flavor that resonates well with the lemongrass.
Rice Bowl: Serve your lemongrass chicken over a bed of jasmine rice or in a bowl with vermicelli noodles and crunchy veggies for added texture.

Each of these variations brings a unique flair to the classic Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, just like you’ll find in a delightful Grilled Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl. So, dive in, explore, and make it truly yours!

Storage Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and delicious for your next meal.

Freezer: If you want to save the chicken for later, freeze it in a single layer in a freezer-friendly bag, ensuring all excess air is removed. It can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Marinade Tip: If you have extra marinade left, you can store it in the fridge for a week or freeze it for future use, adding a burst of flavor to other proteins!

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor infusion. Simply prepare the marinade and coat the chicken thighs, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The marinade helps keep the chicken moist, ensuring it remains juicy when cooked. If you do plan to marinate longer than a few hours, use a non-reactive container to prevent any metallic taste. When you’re ready to grill, just take the chicken out, preheat your grill, and cook for 12-15 minutes as instructed. With these make-ahead tips, dinner is a breeze, letting you enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal fuss on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?

Transform your dining experience with these wonderful sides that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of your meal.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy base that soaks up the tangy marinade, making every bite delightful. Serve it hot for a comforting touch.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: Crunchy, refreshing, and lightly dressed, this salad balances the dish’s bold flavors beautifully. It’s an excellent way to add a crisp texture!
Vermicelli Noodles: Light and perfect for soaking up the marinade’s citrusy essence, these noodles create a delicate experience on your palate.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the juicy chicken. Easy to prepare alongside!
Sweet and Tangy Nuoc Cham: This classic dipping sauce brings a punch of flavor, enhancing the sweet-savory notes of the lemongrass chicken. A little goes a long way!
Mango Sticky Rice: Finish with this luscious dessert, where sweet coconut milk meets ripe mango, echoing the tropical vibes of the chicken. It’s simply divine!

Each side creates a well-rounded meal, enhancing your journey through the delicious world of Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Remove Aromatics: Always take off the chopped garlic and shallots from the chicken before grilling; otherwise, they’ll burn and impart a bitter flavor.
Watch the Heat: Stick to medium heat while grilling to prevent the sugars in the marinade from caramelizing too fast, which could lead to charring.
Adjust Cooking Time: If you’re trying this recipe with pork or beef, be aware that cooking times will vary—always use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Experiment with Spice: For a little kick, feel free to add sriracha or Thai chili to your marinade; just be cautious and adjust to your taste preference.
Marinate Longer: While 30 minutes gives good flavor, marinating overnight in the fridge will create a more robust taste in your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe FAQs

What part of the lemongrass should I use for the marinade?
Use only the tender parts of the stalk for the best flavor. Discard the tough, outer layers, which can be woody and fibrous, and focus on using the pale green, fragrant heart for an aromatic kick.

How should I store leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to maintain its juiciness and flavor!

Can I freeze Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?
Absolutely! Freeze the chicken in a single layer within a freezer-friendly bag, ensuring all excess air is removed. It can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or oven.

What should I do if the marinade burns while grilling?
If you notice that the marinade starts to burn, it’s due to the sugar content. Try reducing the grilling heat slightly to avoid this. Always remove the chopped aromatics like garlic and shallots from the chicken before grilling to prevent them from burning and becoming bitter.

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Yes! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce all while keeping the rest of the ingredients intact. You’ll still enjoy the delicious, vibrant flavor of the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken without compromising dietary needs.

Can I modify the spice level in the recipe?
For sure! You can adjust the spice level by adding sriracha or Thai chili to the marinade. Start with a small amount and taste; you can always add more for an extra kick as needed!