Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

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Juicy, aromatic, and packed with Southeast Asian flair, Grilled Lemongrass Chicken is a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. The combination of tender chicken marinated in lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, and a touch of sweetness creates a mouthwatering balance of savory, tangy, and lightly charred flavors.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend BBQs, delivering a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Serve it over jasmine rice, in a fresh noodle bowl, or tucked into a bánh mì sandwich — no matter how you plate it, this chicken will be the star.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and the Importance of Each Tool)

To make the perfect Grilled Lemongrass Chicken, you’ll need a few key tools:

• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for finely mincing the lemongrass and garlic, ensuring maximum flavor release.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the marinade ingredients evenly so every piece of chicken gets coated.
• Tongs: For flipping the chicken on the grill without piercing it, which helps keep the juices locked in.
• Grill or Grill Pan: A charcoal grill gives the best smoky char, but a stovetop grill pan works great indoors.
• Meat Thermometer (optional but recommended): To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked to 165°F without overcooking.

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Ingredients for the Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

• Chicken Thighs (Boneless, Skinless): Juicy and tender, they soak up the marinade beautifully and stay moist on the grill.
• Fresh Lemongrass Stalks: The star ingredient, providing citrusy, floral notes that define the dish.
• Garlic Cloves: Adds pungency and depth, balancing the sweet and salty flavors.
• Fish Sauce: Brings that umami punch and authentic Southeast Asian taste.
• Brown Sugar or Palm Sugar: Offers a touch of sweetness to balance the savory and salty marinade.
• Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and color to the marinade.
• Lime Juice: Brightens the overall flavor profile with a tangy kick.
• Vegetable Oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken and prevents sticking on the grill.

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How To Make the Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Finely chop the lemongrass and garlic. In a mixing bowl, combine them with fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and oil. Mix until the sugar dissolves.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Watch for beautiful caramelization and slight charring.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and ensures maximum flavor when serving.

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Serving and Storing Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

Serve this aromatic chicken sliced over fluffy jasmine rice, tucked into rice paper rolls, or alongside a fresh herb salad. Garnish with chopped scallions, sliced red chilies, and a drizzle of extra lime juice for added zing.

For storing, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 1 hour, but overnight is best for deep, developed flavor.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that breasts cook faster and can dry out — monitor them closely on the grill.

What if I don’t have fresh lemongrass?

You can use lemongrass paste, available in many grocery stores, though fresh will deliver the most vibrant flavor.

Can I make this without a grill?

Absolutely! A grill pan or even a hot skillet on the stovetop works well.

Is this dish spicy?

The base recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add sliced chilies or chili paste to the marinade if you want some heat.

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Want More Chicken Ideas?

If you love this Grilled Lemongrass Chicken, check out these other favorites from Life With Olivia:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a cheesy, crispy indulgence.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for an effortless slow-cooked meal.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet when you crave rich, buttery flavor.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a comforting, creamy bake.
• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole to cozy up your weeknight dinner.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go bold with extra chili? Or maybe tried it with chicken wings? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too — let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!

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