Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is a vibrant and aromatic dish that bursts with fresh flavors. This classic recipe perfectly balances the subtle sweetness of chicken with the pungent citrus notes of lemongrass, creating a culinary experience that's both exotic and comforting. The fragrant herbs and spices used, alongside the tender chicken, combine to deliver a truly unforgettable taste sensation. Imagine succulent chicken marinated in a rich blend of lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce, then expertly grilled or pan-fried to perfection. This dish is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to different cooking methods and spice preferences.
Beyond its deliciousness, Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The ingredients are readily available, and the preparation process is straightforward. To guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen, let's move on to the detailed, step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Wok
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: 4 (about 1 pound)
- Lemongrass
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Chili: 2-tight chilies
- Shallot: 1 full or 1/2 regular size onion
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Black pepper
- Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Cilantro
- Jasmine rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop lemongrass, using the inner white and green parts.
- Finely chop garlic and roughly chop chilies.
- Slice shallot.
- Combine fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
Step 2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat wok over high heat, add oil, and cook chicken skin-side down until crispy.
- Flip chicken and cook until fully cooked.
- Drain excess oil from the wok.
Step 3. Sauté Aromatics and Sauce
- Add lemongrass, garlic, chilies, and shallot to the wok and stir-fry for about a minute.
- Add fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper mixture. Stir until sauce thickens.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve lemongrass chicken over jasmine rice, garnished with cilantro.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Use chicken thighs with skin on for extra juiciness and crispiness.
- Chop the lemongrass very finely for optimal flavor.
- Be generous with the black pepper for a flavorful kick!
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless, skinless breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on thighs will add extra flavor and richness. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they'll take longer to cook 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 provide the same umami depth. You can try a combination of soy sauce and a few drops of Worcestershire sauce for a closer approximation.
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. From its simple preparation to its irresistible taste, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the fragrant aromas and satisfying flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the comfort of your own home!