Discover the Flavorful Delight of Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Skewers
Craving an easy Asian chicken recipe that bursts with aromatic herbs and bold flavors? Vietnamese lemongrass chicken is a perfect choice, renowned for its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and citrusy notes. This grilled lemongrass chicken dish is not only mouthwatering but also incredibly simple to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
These Vietnamese chicken skewers are marinated in a vibrant mixture of lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar, then grilled to juicy perfection. Whether you’re a fan of authentic Vietnamese cuisine or a curious home cook exploring new tastes, this lemongrass chicken recipe offers a succulent and satisfying meal that delights every palate. Plus, the recipe’s straightforward steps and minimal ingredients make it beginner-friendly, proving you don’t need to be an experienced chef to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors at home.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these irresistible Vietnamese lemongrass chicken skewers. The fragrant lemongrass and savory marinade pair beautifully with smoky grill marks, resulting in a dish that’s juicy on the inside and slightly charred on the outside. Let’s dive into how to make this easy and flavorful grilled lemongrass chicken.
Ingredients for Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Skewers
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 stalks lemongrass, finely minced (white part only)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus extra for grilling)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes beforehand)
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions for Vietnamese Chicken Skewers
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, black pepper, and shallot if using. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes; ideally 1 hour for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and squeeze lime wedges over the top for an extra burst of freshness.
Cooking Tips and Tricks for Perfect Lemongrass Chicken
- Use Chicken Thighs: They stay juicy and tender, making them perfect for grilling.
- Finely Mince Lemongrass: The white stalk is the most fragrant and tender part, ideal for marinade.
- Marinate Longer: For extra flavorful chicken skewers, marinate for 1-2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give space to each skewer for even cooking and crisp edges.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Based on 4 servings
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
Recipe Variations to Try
- Spicy Lemongrass Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Honey Glazed Version: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a sticky, sweet glaze after grilling.
- Vegetarian Skewers: Use firm tofu or seitan cubes marinated in lemongrass and grilled similarly.
- Vietnamese Style with Herbs: Top the skewers with chopped mint, Thai basil, and crushed peanuts before serving.
- Air Fryer Lemongrass Chicken: Cook the skewers in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage: Place leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, grill briefly or warm in the oven to preserve texture and flavor.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice or vermicelli noodles for a complete meal.
- Pair with fresh cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance flavors.
- Wrap skewers with lettuce leaves and herbs for a fresh, hand-held bite.
- Drizzle with a spicy Vietnamese dipping sauce (nuoc cham) for authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken
Q: What is the best cut of chicken for this recipe?
A: Boneless skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor. However, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option but may dry out faster.
Q: Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
A: Absolutely! The marinade can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator up to 2 days ahead.
Q: Is lemongrass necessary, or can I substitute it?
A: Fresh lemongrass is key for authentic flavor but if unavailable, you can use lemongrass paste or finely grated lemon zest combined with ginger as a last resort.
Q: Can I bake the chicken skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, bake them on a foil-lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Q: How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Ensure the grill is preheated and well-oiled before placing the skewers. Also, do not move them too much during grilling to allow proper searing.
Final Thoughts
Vietnamese lemongrass chicken skewers are an excellent introduction to easy Asian chicken recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. The delightful fragrance of lemongrass combined with the savory, slightly sweet marinade creates a culinary experience that will have you coming back for more. With only 30 minutes total time and simple ingredients, this grilled lemongrass chicken is perfect for quick meals or entertaining guests.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a new favorite grilled dish, mastering how to make Vietnamese lemongrass chicken allows you to bring the vibrant tastes of Vietnam right to your table. Enjoy these skewers with fresh herbs, rice, or salad, and savor every flavorful bite!