Grilled chicken is a classic, but this recipe elevates the simple dish to a whole new level of flavor with the umami punch of fish sauce. Forget bland, boring chicken; this recipe delivers succulent, intensely flavorful grilled chicken with a delightful savory-sweet glaze. The unique combination of fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness creates a marinade that tenderizes the chicken while imparting a complex, irresistible taste that will leave you craving more. The slightly charred edges from the grill add a beautiful textural contrast to the juicy interior.
This recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, even for beginner grillers. Ready to experience the magic of this flavorful grilled chicken? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create a culinary masterpiece together.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Oven
- Fork
- Plastic Wrap
- Grill
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1.5-2 kg
- Onion: 1
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves
- Purple Onions: 2-3
- Lemon Leaves: 4-5
- Five-Spice Powder: 2g
- Sugar: 30g
- Seasoning Powder: 10g
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Fish Sauce: 30ml
- Cooking Oil: 20g
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Marinade
- Heat oil in a pan. Add sugar and cook until caramelized . Add shallots, onions, garlic, water, seasoning powder, five-spice powder, fish sauce, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes .
Step 2. Marinate the Chicken
- Wash the chicken. Use a fork to poke holes in the meat, especially the thighs , to help the marinade absorb better.
- Pour the cooled sauce over the chicken . Marinate for 1-1.5 hours, refrigerated . Wrap in plastic wrap to maintain freshness .
Step 3. Bake and Glaze the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 150°C . Bake for 20 minutes to dry the chicken and render fat .
- Remove the chicken from the oven. Brush with the remaining sauce . Repeat this process 1-2 times, increasing the oven temperature by 10°C each time : 150°C, 160°C, 170°C, baking for 10-15 minutes per round . Brush the sauce on both the top and bottom of the chicken .
Step 4. Finish Grilling and Serve
- Continue grilling until the chicken is golden brown and fragrant . The total grilling time may be around 20 minutes .
- Serve immediately. Optional: Serve with salt, pepper, lemon, bread, or sticky rice .
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- Don't marinate the spices directly into the chicken; make a sauce to ensure even absorption .
- For best results, use high-quality fish sauce .
- Don't over-marinate; this could cause burning during grilling .
- When grilling, ensure the chicken is evenly browned on all sides .
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes! Marinating overnight allows the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful results.
2. What can I substitute for fish sauce if I don't have any?
Soy sauce can be used as a substitute, but it won't provide the same unique umami flavor. You might consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the savory notes.
This Grilled Chicken with Fish Sauce recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and unique twist on a classic dish. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. Enjoy the succulent, flavorful chicken and savor every bite!