Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant mixture of lemongrass, garlic, and lime, resulting in an aromatic and flavorful dish that's easy to make at home.
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, vegetable oil, and brown sugar to create the marinade.
- 2
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and coat them well. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
- 3
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 4
Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 5
Bake the chicken in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- 6
Once done, remove from oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- 7
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley before serving.
Cook notes
Tips
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven to keep the chicken moist.
Substitutions
- Use lime zest instead of lime juice for a stronger citrus flavor.
- Substitute light soy sauce for fish sauce for a vegetarian version.
What to Serve With
- Jasmine rice
- Fresh salad with cucumbers and carrots
- Steamed broccoli
Common Mistakes
- Not marinating the chicken long enough to absorb flavors.
- Overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out quicker, so watch the cooking time.
How can I make the chicken spicier?
Add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce to the marinade.
What can I serve this dish with?
Serve it with jasmine rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Baking sheet
Useful for roasting, baking, broiling, and sheet-pan prep.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
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