Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that bursts with aromatic flavor and brings a taste of warm evenings in Vietnam to your table, you’ll fall head over heels for Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken. The savory, sweet, and citrusy marinade infuses juicy chicken thighs with layers of freshness and zing, while the signature grilling process yields irresistibly charred edges and tender meat. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or inviting friends for a backyard feast, this dish promises a crowd-pleasing balance of comfort, excitement, and pure, mouthwatering delight.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a simple lineup of fresh and pantry ingredients can create such magic. Each element has a distinct purpose—building depth, color, aroma, and a signature Vietnamese taste that makes Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken so unforgettable.

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless, these provide juicy, flavorful results that hold up to grilling beautifully.
• Fresh Lemongrass (white parts only, finely minced): The soul of the dish, lending a citrusy fragrance and authentic Vietnamese flavor.
• Garlic (minced): Infuses sharp, aromatic notes that complement the sweet and savory marinade.
• Shallots (minced): Bring delicate sweetness and depth to the mix, balancing the bold flavors.
• Fish Sauce: The ultimate umami booster, adding a salty, savory punch that’s signature to Vietnamese cuisine.
• Soy Sauce: Provides mellow saltiness and layers of complexity to the marinade.
• Brown Sugar: Balances out tanginess and salt with a hint of molasses-rich sweetness.
• Honey: Adds a whisper of floral sweetness and helps the chicken caramelize on the grill.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures that the chicken stays moist and prevents sticking during grilling.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Brings gentle heat and earthiness to round out every bite.
• Lime Juice: The splash of acidity brightens everything and ties together all the flavors.

How to Make Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing all the marinade ingredients together in a large bowl: the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, vegetable oil, black pepper, and lime juice. Take a moment to savor the aromas—it’s like capturing a Vietnamese street market right in your own kitchen. Whisk everything together until the sugars dissolve for a perfectly blended marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade and toss until every piece is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator. Letting the chicken marinate for at least two hours is key, but overnight is even better if you can plan ahead. The longer the flavors mingle, the tastier your Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken will be.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re grilling outdoors, brush the grates with a little oil to help prevent sticking. The heat is what will help you get those wonderfully smoky, slightly charred bits that make this dish so addictive.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Lay the thighs on the hot grill, spacing them out. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, resisting the urge to turn too early—this lets those caramelized grill marks develop. The chicken is ready when it’s nicely charred and cooked through, with irresistible aromas wafting up.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing—this step ensures the juices redistribute, keeping every bite moist and flavorful. Then, cut into strips or leave whole, depending on your serving style.

How to Serve Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh toppings turn this dish into a celebration for the senses. A shower of chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or even a scatter of toasted sesame seeds amps up the color and aroma, elevating the grilled chicken into something truly memorable.

Side Dishes

Traditional steamed jasmine rice makes the perfect companion, soaking up any juices and balancing the bold flavors. You can also pair with a crisp green papaya salad, pickled vegetables, or a tangle of rice vermicelli noodles to echo the freshness of classic Vietnamese meals.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, tuck your sliced Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken into a bánh mì sandwich with crunchy vegetables, or make vibrant rice bowls loaded with fresh herbs, cucumber, and carrot ribbons. You can even wrap pieces with lettuce leaves and dip into a reserved marinade sauce for handheld bites bursting with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for delicious second-helpings, rice bowls, or salads the next day.

Freezing

If you’d like to extend the goodness, freeze the cooked chicken pieces (after cooling) in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Since the marinade is so bold, the flavors stand up well to freezing without fading.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven. Add a splash of water or reserved marinade to keep everything juicy and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast can be used, but keep in mind it tends to be less juicy than thighs. If opting for breasts, watch your grilling time closely so the meat doesn’t become dry, and consider pounding the breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking.

What does lemongrass taste like?

Lemongrass has a bright, citrusy, slightly herbal flavor that’s both refreshing and uniquely fragrant. It gives Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken its signature taste and aroma, setting it apart from other grilled chicken dishes.

Can I cook this without a grill?

Yes, you can! If you don’t have access to a grill, cook the marinated chicken in a hot cast-iron skillet or grill pan on your stovetop. You’ll still achieve a lovely sear and all those fabulous flavors.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just make sure to use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish worry-free.

How do I prepare lemongrass for this recipe?

Trim off the tough green tops and root end, then peel away the outer layers to reveal the tender white core. Finely mince this part to release the essential oils and maximize flavor in your marinade—it’s well worth the effort!

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to shake up your grilling routine and treat yourself to something truly mouthwatering, give Grilled Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken a try. With its vibrant flavors and easy prep, it’s the kind of recipe that turns any meal into a special occasion. Gather your favorite people and enjoy every delicious bite!

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