Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of lemongrass sizzling in a hot pan, filling the kitchen with its citrusy, slightly floral fragrance. Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, or Gà Xào Sả Ớt, is a beloved dish in Vietnamese cuisine, known for its balance of savory, slightly sweet, and subtly spicy flavors. This dish is often served over a bed of fluffy white rice, allowing the tender, flavorful chicken to soak into every bite.

Lemongrass is a staple in Southeast Asian cooking, prized not only for its refreshing aroma but also for its health benefits. It’s commonly used in soups, marinades, and stir-fries, adding a bright, zesty kick that complements proteins beautifully. In Vietnam, lemongrass chicken is a go-to family meal, quick to prepare yet bursting with complex flavors. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or part of a larger Vietnamese feast, this dish never fails to delight.

Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful recipe that brings the taste of Vietnam right into your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce creates an irresistible savory depth.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a stress-free meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside noodles for a delicious meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 stalks lemongrass, trimmed and finely minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)

How to Make Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Lemongrass

Lemongrass is the star ingredient in this dish, so taking the time to prepare it properly is key. Start by trimming the tough outer layers of the lemongrass stalks. You’ll want to use the softer, pale yellow section near the bottom. Finely mince it with a sharp knife or use a food processor to make things easier. The finer the lemongrass, the more evenly it will distribute its flavor throughout the dish.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallot, soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, black pepper, and chili flakes. Mix everything well, making sure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, but if you have time, an hour or more will deepen the flavors even further.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a nice golden-brown crust. Then, stir-fry the chicken until it’s cooked through and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked and beautifully golden, remove it from the heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve immediately over a steaming bowl of jasmine rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass provides the best flavor, but if you can’t find it, lemongrass paste from the store can be a good substitute.
• Don’t Skip the Marination: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re short on time, even 20 minutes will help, but overnight is best.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the chili flakes. For extra heat, add sliced Thai chilies.
• Use Chicken Thighs for Juicier Meat: While chicken breast can be used, thighs stay more tender and flavorful when stir-fried.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-fry
• Cuisine: Vietnamese
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free soy sauce)

Notes

• This dish pairs wonderfully with pickled vegetables or a side of sautéed greens.
• Leftovers can be used in a sandwich or wrapped in rice paper for fresh spring rolls.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 20g
• Sodium: 700mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but it tends to be leaner and may dry out more quickly. To prevent this, avoid overcooking and consider adding a little extra oil.

What can I serve with this dish?

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is typically served with jasmine rice, but it also pairs well with vermicelli noodles, lettuce wraps, or a fresh cucumber salad.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Related Recipes

If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:

• Delicious Chicken Caesar Wrap
• Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
• Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
• Vietnamese Chicken Salad (Gỏi Gà)

Conclusion

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and bold flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. The fragrant lemongrass, combined with the umami-rich fish sauce and the gentle heat of chili, makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re new to Vietnamese cooking or already a fan, this recipe is a must-try.

Print