If you’re craving something that bursts with vibrant, fresh flavors and delivers that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, then you’re going to love this Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress with its fragrant, marinated chicken thighs grilled to juicy perfection. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or your next backyard barbecue, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of Vietnam’s culinary magic right to your own grill.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s the aromatic lemongrass that gives the dish its signature scent, the salty-sweet balance from fish sauce and honey, or the fresh zing from lime juice. Nothing extra, just straightforward ingredients for a truly authentic flavor.
- 8 boneless chicken thighs: Perfectly juicy and tender, they absorb the marinade beautifully.
- 1 stalk lemongrass (about 3 and 1/2 tablespoons): The key aromatic herb, finely chopped and smashed to release its oils.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth and a punch of savoriness.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce: A classic Vietnamese ingredient that provides umami and saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Enhances savoriness while balancing the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Brings a subtle sweetness to caramelize perfectly when grilled.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens flavors with its fresh acidity.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken and prevents sticking on the grill.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemongrass
Begin by trimming the lemongrass stalk—cut off the root end and peel away the woody outer layers until you reach the tender core. Finely chop the remaining stalk into tiny pieces then smash them gently with the side of your knife to release those irresistible citrusy oils that form the backbone of the marinade.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a bowl, combine minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, vegetable oil, black pepper, and salt. Whisk everything together thoroughly until you have a fragrant, balanced marinade that smells like a taste of Vietnam itself.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade into a zip-top bag for easy mixing. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour—overnight if you have time—for the flavors to sink deep into the meat.
Step 4: Preheat and Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high. When it’s ready, place the marinated chicken thighs onto the grill. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, working carefully to achieve a beautiful char and ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked through but still juicy inside.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender bites. Now it’s ready to bring to the table and wow your family or friends.
How to Serve Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes make all the difference here. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or toasted sesame seeds on top to add contrasting freshness and a little crunch. A wedge of lime on the side invites an extra squeeze for brightness.
Side Dishes
This chicken shines alongside fluffy steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice to soak up every bit of its delicious juices. For a lighter option, lettuce wraps with crisp veggies and fresh herbs create a fun, handheld way to enjoy the dish, perfect for sharing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the grilled chicken thinly and serving it over a vibrant Vietnamese-style noodle bowl with fresh mint, basil, shredded carrot, and crushed peanuts. Or pile the thighs onto a crusty baguette for a homemade bánh mì-inspired sandwich packed with flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover grilled lemongrass chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken separate from sides helps maintain its flavor and texture when reheated.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy the taste of this Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe anytime you like.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low to medium heat or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help keep the chicken moist so it’s almost as good as freshly grilled.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill, chicken breasts can work well if you watch the cooking time carefully to avoid drying out.
Do I need to use fresh lemongrass or can I substitute?
Fresh lemongrass is key to getting that authentic flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can try using lemongrass paste or frozen lemongrass, just adjust the quantity to your taste.
How long should the chicken marinate for best flavor?
Marinating for at least 1 hour is enough for good flavor, but overnight in the fridge really deepens the aromatic profile and tenderness.
Can I cook this recipe indoors?
Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, a grill pan or broiler set to high heat can get you close to that signature char and smoky taste.
Is this dish spicy?
This particular recipe isn’t spicy, but you’re welcome to add chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the marinade if you want a little kick.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is one of those joyful dishes that invites you to gather around the table, savor bold, fresh flavors, and enjoy every bite. It’s simple yet packed with personality, perfect for anyone looking to bring a touch of Vietnam into their home cooking. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why this recipe is a cherished favorite that we can’t help but share with friends.
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Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delicious and aromatic Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken featuring tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and spices, then grilled to perfection with a smoky char.
Ingredients
Lemongrass Chicken Marinade:
- 1 stalk lemongrass (approx. 3 and 1/2 tablespoons, finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chicken:
- 8 boneless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemongrass: Cut off the root end of the lemongrass, remove the tough outer layers, then finely chop the stalk into small pieces. Smash the chopped lemongrass with the side of a knife to release its oils for maximum flavor.
- Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, vegetable oil, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a well-blended, fragrant marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a more intense flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked through and develops a flavorful charred exterior.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
- Serve: Serve the grilled lemongrass chicken hot, paired with steamed rice or wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves for a traditional Vietnamese experience.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if time allows.
- Use fresh lemongrass for authentic taste; if unavailable, substitute with 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste or powder.
- Adjust the honey and lime juice amount to balance sweetness and acidity to your preference.
- Ensure the grill is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner cuts, though thighs remain juicier.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
