Description
This Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of lemongrass, garlic, shallots, lime juice, and traditional Vietnamese seasonings. Perfectly charred on the grill, this dish offers a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it an irresistible choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 2 stalks lemongrass (tender white part only)
- 1 large shallot (thinly sliced, skin removed)
- 4 large garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons fish sauce
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemongrass Marinade: Finely chop the tender white parts of the lemongrass stalks and thinly slice the shallot and garlic. In a bowl, combine the chopped lemongrass, shallot, garlic, lime juice, lime zest, brown sugar, vegetable oil, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 3 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the thighs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and allow to rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Slice or serve whole, garnished with fresh herbs or lime wedges if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Vietnamese lemongrass grilled chicken!
Notes
- Use the tender white part of lemongrass for best flavor and texture; avoid the tough green parts.
- Marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavor greatly if time allows.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or broil in the oven.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste for a sweeter or less sweet marinade.
- Serve with steamed rice and fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an authentic Vietnamese meal.
