Simple Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor but still easy enough for a weeknight dinner, this Simple Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. In the first bite, you’ll notice the bright citrus aroma of lemongrass, followed by savory umami notes and a gentle sweetness that makes this dish incredibly comforting and satisfying.

This recipe is inspired by classic Vietnamese home cooking—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a method that lets everything shine. Best of all, it’s family-friendly, pork-free, alcohol-free, and adaptable to many dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

There are so many reasons this dish deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

• Quick and easy: Minimal prep and fast cooking time
• Big flavor: Lemongrass, garlic, and savory sauces do all the work
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps
• Meal-prep friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully
• Customizable: Easy to adjust sweetness, saltiness, or spice level

Whether you’re new to Vietnamese cooking or already love its flavors, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

Ingredients for Simple Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 2 stalks fresh lemongrass, tender inner parts only, finely minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot (or ¼ onion), finely minced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1½ tablespoons sugar (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable, avocado, or canola)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ teaspoon chili flakes or fresh minced chili (for heat)
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, for serving

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Chicken thighs vs. breasts: Thighs stay juicier and more flavorful, but breasts work well if sliced thinly.
• Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass is key. Remove tough outer layers and use only the pale inner stalk. If unavailable, frozen lemongrass paste can be used.
• Fish sauce: Adds depth and authentic flavor. For a milder option, use soy sauce plus a squeeze of lime.
• Sugar: White sugar, brown sugar, coconut sugar, or honey all work.
• Vegetarian swap: Replace chicken with extra-firm tofu, tempeh, or sliced mushrooms.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Lemongrass

Trim off the root end and woody top of the lemongrass stalks. Remove the tough outer layers until you reach the pale, tender center. Finely mince the lemongrass—this is crucial for releasing its fragrance and preventing fibrous texture.

Step 2 – Slice the Chicken

Cut the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Uniform pieces help the chicken cook evenly and absorb the marinade more effectively.

Step 3 – Make the Marinade

In a bowl, combine minced lemongrass, garlic, shallot, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, oil, and black pepper. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.

Step 4 – Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 5 – Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop caramelization.

Step 6 – Finish Cooking

Stir and continue cooking for another 4–6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly caramelized. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7 – Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with green onions or cilantro. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Finely mince lemongrass to avoid tough texture
2. Don’t overcrowd the pan for proper browning
3. Use medium-high heat for caramelization without burning
4. Taste before serving and adjust salt or sweetness
5. Let the chicken rest for a minute before serving

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Lemongrass Chicken: Add chili paste or fresh chilies
• Honey Lemongrass Chicken: Replace sugar with honey
• Citrus Twist: Finish with a squeeze of lime
• Herb-Forward: Add fresh basil or mint
• Grilled Version: Grill marinated chicken over medium heat

Serving Suggestions

• Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
• Rice noodles with fresh herbs
• Lettuce wraps with cucumber and carrots
• Inside bánh mì–style sandwiches
• Alongside stir-fried vegetables

Storage and Freezing Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through

Print

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~320
Protein	~28g
Carbohydrates	~10g
Fat	~18g
Fiber	~1g
Sodium	~780mg

Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQ About Simple Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

What does lemongrass taste like?

Lemongrass has a light citrus flavor similar to lemon with subtle herbal notes. It’s aromatic rather than sour and pairs beautifully with savory dishes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. You can marinate the chicken up to one day in advance and cook it when ready. Cooked leftovers also reheat well.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default. It’s mild and family-friendly, but you can add chilies if you enjoy heat.

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until fully cooked.

What if I can’t find fresh lemongrass?

Frozen lemongrass paste works well. Use about 1 tablespoon per stalk.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Recipe proves that incredible flavor doesn’t require complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. With its bright aroma, savory depth, and versatility, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again—perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or sharing with family.