Lemongrass Chicken is a fragrant Southeast Asian-inspired dish featuring tender marinated chicken infused with fresh lemongrass, garlic, and savory seasonings. Bright, aromatic, and packed with flavor, it pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
2 stalks fresh lemongrass, finely minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Remove the tough outer layers of the lemongrass and finely mince the tender inner portion.
In a large bowl, combine the lemongrass, garlic, shallot, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, vegetable oil, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 to 8 hours.
Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard excess marinade.
Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until fully cooked and lightly charred.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Notes
Chicken thighs provide the juiciest and most flavorful results.
Add fresh ginger or chili peppers to the marinade for extra flavor.
Coconut aminos can be substituted for soy sauce.
The marinade can be prepared up to 2 days in advance.
Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
