Delicious & Easy Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

The Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is easy to make at home, incredibly delicious—juicy and moist. Marinated in a fragrant lemongrass marinade and served with Nuoc Cham dipping sauce. Perfect for a flavorful dinner!

What is Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a popular dish known for its fragrant and flavorful marinade. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of fresh lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes chili, creating a delicious blend of savory, tangy, and citrusy flavors.

When grilled, the chicken becomes tender and juicy with a slightly smoky and charred exterior. This lemongrass chicken is known for its rich and aromatic flavors, that make it a standout dish in Vietnamese cuisine.

This dish is incredibly popular in Vietnam, where it’s often served with rice (or vermicelli noodles) and a side of sweet and tangy nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce).

Why you will love this easy Vietnamese lemongrass chicken?

• Vibrant Flavors: Fresh lemongrass adds a zesty, citrusy kick, making the chicken burst with vibrant, aromatic taste.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic, shallots, and five-spice powder infuses the chicken with savory goodness.
• Versatile Serving: It pairs perfectly with rice, vermicelli noodles, and is perfect for lunch or dinner idea.
• Quick Preparation: With methods like grilling, pan-frying, oven-baking, or air frying, it fits easily into any busy schedule.

Lemongrass is a game-changing ingredient!

Lemongrass is a staple in Vietnamese and Southeast Asian cuisines due to its distinctive citrusy aroma and flavor, which enhances dishes like lemongrass chicken, pork chops, beef, and tofu.

Lemongrass is great at boosting flavors like fish sauce, garlic, and chili. It adds smoky sweetness to grilled pork and a fresh, tangy kick to stir-fried beef.

Whether used in marinades, stir-fries, or grilling, lemongrass brings a refreshing and aromatic quality to Vietnamese dishes, making them both flavorful and memorable.

Where Can I Buy Lemongrass?

You can find fresh lemongrass at Asian grocery stores and larger supermarkets with a diverse produce section. Fresh lemongrass is typically available in the herb section and is best used within a week of purchase for optimal flavor. Alternatively, lemongrass paste or frozen lemongrass is a convenient alternative, which can be found at some Asian markets in the frozen section.

How to prepare lemongrass

1. Trim the end off of the lemongrass and remove the tough outer.
2. Chop the white bottom section of lemongrass up until it gets tough (I prefer using the lower, tender section of the stalks for more aroma)
3. Finely chop or place into a food processor.
4. Transfer the paste into an ice cube tray or small freezer-safe container and freeze until solid.

Once frozen, move the lemongrass cubes into a freezer bag or airtight container for easy storage and use in your recipes.

What is Nuoc Cham – Vietnamese Dipping Sauce?

Nuoc Cham is a traditional Vietnamese dipping sauce that is commonly served with dishes such as Vietnamese lemongrass chicken. This flavorful sauce is made with a combination of ingredients like fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili.

It adds a delicious tangy and savory element to dishes like banh mi, noodle bowls, and stir-fries. You can easily make Vietnamese lemongrass chicken with nuoc cham at home by following a simple recipe card. 

• Ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup fish sauce
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 small chili, minced
• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, combine the fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sliced chili. Mix well and set aside.

One of the highlights of this dish is the nuoc cham sauce that is served on the side. This flavorful dipping sauce enhances the lemongrass chicken with its tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors.

You can customize the sauce to your taste by adjusting the proportions of the ingredients. Many people love this recipe for its bold flavors and versatility.

Ingredients for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Chicken 

4 Chicken Thighs. You can use any cut of chicken, such as chicken breasts, chicken thighs, or chicken drumsticks.

Chicken Marinade:

1. Combine 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon minced shallot, and 1 tablespoon minced lemongrass in a bowl.
2. Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon cooking wine, 1 tablespoon corn syrup (or honey), and 1 tablespoon cooking oil. Mix well.
3. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

Glaze:

1. Mix 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon oil in a small bowl.
2. Brush the glaze onto the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a flavorful and glossy finish.

Marinate the Chicken

Prepare Chicken:

1. Trim the Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat or skin from the chicken thighs. If you prefer boneless thighs, you can remove the bones, or leave them in if you like the extra flavor they provide.
2. Pat Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures a nice sear during cooking.
3. Score the Chicken (Optional): For better flavor absorption, lightly score the surface of the chicken thighs with a knife. This is especially useful if you’re using a thicker marinade.

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate it for 2 to 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

How to Make Lemongrass Chicken

Remove the aromatics from the chicken before cooking to prevent from burning! Here’s how I cook marinated chicken thighs using four methods, each offering its own unique flavor:

Grill method – A traditional way

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach 165°F (74°C).

Grilling adds a smoky, charred flavor and crispy edges, which I love. For extra flavor, baste with additional marinade or glaze during the last few minutes.

Pan-Fry method

Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

Pan-frying creates a rich, caramelized crust that really brings out the savory notes of the marinade.

Oven Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they reach 165°F (74°C).

Baking gives the chicken a perfectly even brown exterior with a juicy, tender interior.

Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Arrange the chicken thighs in the basket, ensuring they’re not crowded. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Pro Tip: The air fryer method is my go-to because it’s incredibly efficient and produces a crispy, well-seasoned exterior with minimal oil. It’s a quick, healthier option that keeps the chicken flavorful and juicy.

Let it rest: After the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. 

How to Serve Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

I love serving Vietnamese lemongrass chicken over steamed rice or vermicelli noodles, generously sprinkling fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil on top, which add a burst of bright, aromatic flavor and a touch of color.

I always make sure to include a side of crisp pickled vegetables—like carrots and daikon radish—that offer a tangy crunch and balance the richness of the chicken.

Of couse, I highly recommend serving Vietnamese lemongrass chicken with a small bowl of nuoc cham, a versatile Vietnamese dipping sauce that combines sweet, salty, and spicy notes, perfect for drizzling over the chicken or dipping each bite. 

Make-ahead tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

By planning ahead, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Vietnamese lemongrass chicken with less stress and more convenience!

• Marinate and Chill: Prepare the marinade in advance and coat the chicken thighs a day or two before you plan to cook. Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator overnight for the best flavor.
• Freeze for Later: If you want to get even further ahead, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Simply place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking for a quick and easy meal.
• Cook: To cook frozen lemongrass chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then grill, pan-fry, bake at 375°F (190°C), or air fry at 360°F (182°C) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thigh for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for chicken thigh in this Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe, but they may not be as juicy.

Marinate and cook them carefully to ensure they remain tender and flavorful.but be mindful of adjusting the cooking time to prevent the meat from drying out.

How should I cook the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?

You can grill the chicken, cook it in the oven, or even fry it in an air fryer for a healthier option. The key is to ensure the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior for the best flavor.

Can I use vermicelli noodles to serve with Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken?

Absolutely! Vermicelli noodles are a common accompaniment to Vietnamese dishes. Simply cook the noodles according to package instructions and serve them alongside your flavorful Lemongrass Chicken for a complete meal.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?

For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

Can I freeze lemongrass chicken? 

Yes, you can freeze lemongrass chicken. Simply marinate and freeze the chicken in an airtight container or bag, then thaw and cook as desired.

What should I do if I don’t have cooking wine? 

If you don’t have cooking wine, you can substitute it with a splash of white wine vinegar or chicken broth. This will help retain the liquid balance in the marinade.

How do I achieve a crispy texture with lemongrass chicken? 

To achieve a crispy texture, cook the chicken in an air fryer or on a grill, which will help develop a nice crust. Ensure the chicken is well-marbled and avoid overcrowding the cooking surface.

Is lemongrass chicken a healthy option? 

Lemongrass chicken can be a healthy option when prepared with lean chicken and minimal added sugars. It’s rich in flavor without needing excessive amounts of oil or fat.

What if I can’t find lemongrass? 

If you can’t find lemongrass, you can use a combination of lemon zest and a small amount of ginger as a substitute. While not an exact match, it will provide a similar citrusy flavor.

Looking for more Asian favorites?

If you enjoyed this Vietnamese lemongrass chicken, you’ll love exploring other delicious Asian dishes! Dive into the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese lemongarss pork, the savory goodness of Korean beef short ribs, or the comforting warmth of Asian braised beef. Each recipe brings its own unique twist to Asian cuisine!