Fragrant Ginger Chicken: A Simple Vietnamese Family Recipe

Fragrant Ginger Chicken is a beloved Vietnamese dish, renowned for its simplicity and explosive flavour. This recipe brings the vibrant tastes of Southeast Asia to your kitchen, showcasing the pungent warmth of ginger alongside the tender succulence of chicken. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this dish is surprisingly easy to master, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings. The aromatic blend of ginger, garlic, and fish sauce creates a deeply satisfying sauce that coats every bite of chicken, leaving you wanting more. This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it accessible to home cooks of all levels.

Beyond its ease of preparation, this Ginger Chicken recipe delivers an authentic Vietnamese experience. The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes is exquisitely crafted, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and exciting. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible depth of flavour achieved with minimal effort. Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious plate of Fragrant Ginger Chicken.

Tools Needed

  • Frying pan

Ingredients

  • Chicken
  • Ginger
  • Lemongrass
  • Han Le salt
  • Spices
  • Oyster sauce
  • Fish sauce
  • Lemon leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics

  • Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and wash thoroughly.
  • Add ginger and lemongrass.
Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and wash thoroughly.Add ginger and lemongrass.
Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics

Step 2. Sear and Season the Chicken

  • Fry the chicken. Season with Han Le salt and spices to absorb and firm the chicken.
  • Add oyster sauce and fish sauce for richness and flavor.
  • Stir-fry, keeping the lid open to remove any fishy smell. Cook until the chicken is firm.
  • To brown the edges, cover the lid. Otherwise, leave it open to let the water evaporate and firm the chicken.
Fry the chicken. Season with Han Le salt and spices to absorb and firm the chicken.Add oyster sauce and fish sauce for richness and flavor.Stir-fry, keeping the lid open to remove any fishy smell. Cook until the chicken is firm.To brown the edges, cover the lid. Otherwise, leave it open to let the water evaporate and firm the chicken.
Sear and Season the Chicken

Step 3. Adjust Sauce Consistency and Add Finishing Touches

  • If you want a little sauce left, stir for a while longer to reduce the liquid. For a drier dish, leave the lid open and cook thoroughly until the steam evaporates.
  • When the chicken is almost done, add a few lemon leaves.
If you want a little sauce left, stir for a while longer to reduce the liquid. For a drier dish, leave the lid open and cook thoroughly until the steam evaporates.When the chicken is almost done, add a few lemon leaves.
Adjust Sauce Consistency and Add Finishing Touches

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve and enjoy!
Serve and enjoy!
Serve

Read more: Vietnamese Chicken Stew (Ca Ri Ga): A Flavorful Comfort Dish

Tips

  • The more 'rotten' (well-cooked) the chicken, the more delicious it will be, especially with industrially raised chicken which tends to be softer.
  • Turn the chicken carefully to ensure it's firm and dry.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 250-350
  • Fat: 15-25g
  • Carbs: 5-10g
  • Protein: 20-30g

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless, skinless breasts?

Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will add more flavor and richness. Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they're cooked through.

2. What can I substitute for fish sauce if I don't have any?

Soy sauce can be a decent substitute, but it won't give the same umami depth. You could try a combination of soy sauce and a little Worcestershire sauce to get closer to the flavor profile.


This Fragrant Ginger Chicken recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and masterful technique, delivering a dish that is both satisfying and incredibly flavorful. We hope you enjoyed the journey and the delicious results of your culinary adventure. Now, gather your family and friends, and savor the authentic tastes of Vietnam.