Description
This Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of lemongrass, garlic, lime, and traditional Vietnamese sauces. Ready in just 22 minutes, it offers a vibrant balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, perfect for a quick and impressive meal that highlights authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 2 stalks lemongrass (tender white part only), finely minced
- 1 large shallot, thinly sliced, skin removed
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons fish sauce
Main
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemongrass Marinade: Finely mince the tender white parts of the lemongrass stalks. Combine with thinly sliced shallot, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, lime zest, light brown sugar, vegetable oil, soy sauce, and fish sauce in a mixing bowl. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, creating a balanced marinade with sweet, sour, and umami notes.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade bowl, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Cover and allow to marinate for at least 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the vibrant flavors of the lemongrass and spices, enhancing the chicken’s tenderness and aroma.
- Preheat and Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill, cooking approximately 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred and caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Once grilled, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or additional lime wedges if desired, alongside steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to intensify flavors.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they remain juicier and more flavorful when grilled.
- If a grill is unavailable, a grill pan or broiler can be used as alternatives.
- Adjust the sweetness or saltiness by modifying brown sugar and fish sauce quantities according to taste.
- To keep it gluten free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
