Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Name: Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces); 3 stalks fresh lemongrass (trimmed and finely minced, or 3 tablespoons lemongrass paste); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 small onion (finely sliced); 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for milder flavor); 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 whole red chili (sliced, optional garnish); 1 handful fresh cilantro (optional garnish); 1 whole lime (cut into wedges, optional garnish)

Delicious Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken garnished with fresh herbs

By :

Eva

January 31, 2026

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How to make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
3 stalks fresh lemongrass (trimmed and finely minced, or 3 tablespoons lemongrass paste)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small onion (finely sliced)
2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for milder flavor)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 whole red chili (sliced, optional garnish)
1 handful fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
1 whole lime (cut into wedges, optional garnish)

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and slightly translucent.
Add the marinated chicken along with all the marinade to the hot pan. Spread the chicken pieces in a single layer as much as possible. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes to develop a nice golden-brown sear on one side.
Stir-fry the chicken for an additional 6 to 8 minutes, tossing frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized around the edges. The sauce should reduce and become slightly sticky. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more fish sauce for saltiness or a sprinkle of sugar for sweetness. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with sliced red chili, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine straight to your kitchen. The standout ingredient, lemongrass, offers a fragrant citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. This dish is not only fragrant but also packed with the umami taste from fish sauce and oyster sauce. Many people love this recipe because it’s simple to make yet delivers bold flavors.

When you take a bite of this scrumptious chicken, you will notice how the marinade works magic. The garlic adds a depth of flavor, while the brown sugar caramelizes beautifully in the hot pan, giving the chicken a magnificent glaze. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile; you can serve it over rice, noodles, or even in a salad. The possibility of combining it with different sides makes it a family favorite.

Nutriment Benefits

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is not only delicious but also comes with several nutritional benefits. Here’s a closer look at some of the key ingredients:

This dish supports a balanced diet with proteins and vitamins that not only taste great but contribute positively to your health.

What to Serve With Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This classic option soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
Noodles: Serve the chicken over rice noodles or vermicelli for a hearty meal.
Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber and carrot salad can offer a refreshing crunch.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas stir-fried with garlic make for a nutritious side.

Feel free to mix and match these side dishes based on your preference!

How to Store Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them is easy. Here’s how:

In the Refrigerator: Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container. It should last for about 3-4 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, here are some helpful tips:

Don’t Skip Marinating: Marinating the chicken is key to infusing flavor. If time allows, marinate overnight.
Use Fresh Lemongrass: If possible, use fresh lemongrass instead of paste for a more aromatic flavor.
Control the Heat: Be careful not to cook the chicken on too high heat for too long, as it can dry out.

Common mistakes to avoid include:

Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
Not adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste can reduce the dish’s overall flavor profile. Always taste and adjust.

Variations

If you want to try different twists on this recipe, consider these variations:

Grilled Lemongrass Chicken: Skewering the chicken and grilling it can add a smoky flavor.
Lemongrass Tofu: For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu, marinating it the same way.
Add Vegetables: You can toss in bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for extra nutrition.

These variations can keep your meals exciting while maintaining the core flavors of the original recipe.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but keep in mind that thighs are juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.

2. Is it necessary to use fish sauce?
Fish sauce gives this dish its authentic flavor, but if you want a milder taste or are vegetarian, you can use soy sauce as a substitute.

3. What if I can’t find fresh lemongrass?
You can use lemongrass paste as an alternative. If that’s not available, try dried lemongrass as a last resort, although it won’t provide the same freshness.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is an easy yet flavorful dish that everyone can enjoy. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe invites you to explore the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your home!