Savory Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken in Just 30 Minutes

A quick and vibrant dish of Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken packed with bold flavors and customizable ingredients.

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 10

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Chicken

Cuisine: Vietnamese

Calories: 350

For the Chicken

1 pound Chicken Main protein source; for a lighter meal, swap with shrimp or tofu and adjust cooking times.
3 cloves Garlic Essential for depth of flavor; don’t skip this ingredient!
2 tablespoons Fish Sauce Adds umami and a salty kick; adjust to taste depending on your preference.
1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce Contributes sweetness and richness; easily replaced with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce Enhances flavor; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if that's your preference.
1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Balances flavors with sweetness; can substitute with honey or maple syrup if necessary.
1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Offers a hint of heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

For the Aromatics

2 stalks Fresh Lemongrass If fresh isn't available, use 3 tablespoons of lemongrass paste for a different flavor.
1 large Onion Builds a flavorful base; yellow or white onions work best, but shallots can also make a great substitute.

For the Garnish

1 medium Sliced Red Chili Optional for added heat and a pop of color; feel free to omit for a milder dish.
1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Adds freshness and visual appeal; can be swapped with green onions if desired.
2 wedges Lime Brighten the dish with a squeeze of lime; completely optional but highly recommended.

Cooking Oil

2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Used for sautéing; olive oil can also provide a different flavor profile.

Preparation Steps

In a mixing bowl, combine your chicken pieces with minced lemongrass, minced garlic, fish sauce, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, brown sugar, and ground black pepper. Ensure each piece is well-coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the sliced onions and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade to the skillet with the onions. Stir-fry everything together for 8-10 minutes, making sure to stir frequently until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized with golden brown edges.
After the chicken is cooked, taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed.
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer your Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh sliced red chili, a scattering of cilantro, and lime wedges.

This dish pairs beautifully with steaming jasmine rice or vermicelli noodles, creating a balanced meal that is delightful and visually appealing.