As the sun dips low and the evening air fills with the scents of summer grilling, I can’t help but dream of the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Just last week, I found myself craving something fresh and zesty, and that’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Thighs. With just 30 minutes of prep time, this dish perfectly balances convenience and sophistication.
The intoxicating aroma of lemongrass mingling with garlic and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar transports me straight to a bustling market in Vietnam. It’s incredible how accessible this recipe is, making it suitable for a weeknight family supper or a laid-back gathering with friends. Plus, the best part? This flavor-packed chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides, like coconut rice or a crisp cucumber salad.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your dinner game and leave bland fast food behind, join me in preparing this quick, budget-friendly delight that’s gluten-free and packed with flavor!
Why will you love Grilled Lemongrass Chicken?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of lemongrass, garlic, and a hint of sweetness creates an irresistible marinade.
Versatile Protein Choices: Easily swap chicken thighs for fish, shrimp, or tofu to fit your preferences!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Impress guests at your next gathering with a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Healthy Option: Gluten-free and budget-friendly, this dish makes healthy eating accessible for everyone.
Effortless Cleanup: Fewer ingredients mean quick prep and cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal with less hassle.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Lemongrass – Use the tender white inner parts for the best citrus flavor; fresh is ideal, but paste can work in a pinch.
- Shallots – Small and sweet, they enhance the marinade’s depth; chop them roughly for ease.
- Garlic – Adds a pungent kick; three cloves are perfect, peeled, and chopped.
- Green Chili – Choose your favorite for some heat; jalapeños work great, chopped roughly.
- Fish Sauce – This ingredient brings umami depth; 1.5 tablespoons typically does the trick, but adjust to your taste.
- Brown Sugar – Balances the other flavors with a touch of sweetness; feel free to swap for any sweetener on hand.
- Avocado Oil – A light cooking fat that won’t overpower; canola or vegetable oil serve as excellent substitutes.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Keeps things savory without excess salt; use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
- Kosher Salt – Elevates all the flavors; adjust to your preference based on dietary needs.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Chicken Thighs – This cut offers moisture and tenderness, making it perfect for tossing on the grill and packing lots of flavor; it cooks quicker than other chicken parts.
With this delightful ensemble of ingredients, you’re one step closer to enjoying the vibrant flavors of Grilled Lemongrass Chicken!
How to Make Grilled Lemongrass Chicken
-
Prepare Marinade: In a food processor, blend lemongrass, shallots, garlic, green chili, fish sauce, brown sugar, avocado oil, low-sodium soy sauce, and kosher salt until smooth and well-combined.
-
Marinate Chicken: Place boneless chicken thighs in a bowl or Ziploc bag, pouring the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is coated well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
-
Preheat Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat, getting it nice and hot. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and ensuring even cooking.
-
Grill Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until each piece is thoroughly cooked and has those lovely grill marks. Adjust timing for smaller or thinner pieces.
Optional: Serve with fresh cilantro or lime wedges to enhance the flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Grilled Lemongrass Chicken
-
Marinate Wisely: Ensure chicken thighs are fully coated with the marinade for maximum flavor. A thorough marinade will lead to delightful grilled lemongrass chicken that bursts with taste.
-
Perfect Temperature: Always grill at medium-high heat. This guarantees juicy chicken with those coveted grill marks while keeping the meat tender.
-
Timing is Key: Stick to 6-7 minutes per side but check for doneness. Overcooking can dry out the chicken thighs, so use a meat thermometer if unsure.
-
Smoke Alert: If cooking indoors, be prepared for some smoke from the caramelizing sugar in the marinade. Keep your kitchen well-ventilated to avoid surprises!
-
Rest Before Cooking: Take marinated chicken out of the fridge 30 minutes prior to cooking. This helps ensure even cooking throughout once it hits the grill.
What to Serve with Grilled Lemongrass Chicken?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that complement the vibrant flavors of this dish.
- Coconut Rice: This creamy and fragrant rice offers a sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken. It’s like a tropical vacation on your plate!
- Crisp Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, mint, and a hint of lime brightens the flavor profile, making each bite feel light and zesty.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus not only add color but also a smoky flavor that balances the chicken’s aromatic notes beautifully.
- Vietnamese Spring Rolls: Fresh, crunchy, and filled with herbs and shrimp or tofu, these rolls create a perfect handheld option to soak up any remaining flavors. They add a fun, interactive element to your meal!
- Pickled Carrots and Daikon: These tangy, crunchy pickles bring a delightful acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken, providing a satisfying zing.
- Refreshing Mint Lemonade: A cool drink like mint lemonade can quench your thirst and refresh your palate, perfectly accentuating the citrus notes of the grilled chicken.
- Sticky Rice: This slightly sweet, chewy rice can be a fun way to scoop up the flavors of the chicken, making each bite even more special.
- Sweet Mango Salsa: A fragrant salsa with ripe mango, red onion, and lime zest adds a burst of freshness that enhances the overall meal experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: Cap off your meal with a decadent dessert like rich chocolate mousse, providing a luxurious finish to this vibrant dining experience.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this delightful recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences!
- Fish Swap: Use salmon or tilapia instead of chicken thighs for a fresh twist while keeping the marinade intact.
- Pork Perfection: Substitute chicken with pork tenderloin or chops, adjusting grilling time for each protein’s thickness.
- Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with firm tofu—just press it first to remove excess moisture.
- Shrimp Delight: Swap in shrimp for a quick-cooking, succulent alternative that absorbs the marinade beautifully.
- Ginger Boost: Enhance the marinade by adding grated fresh ginger for a spicy zing that complements the lemongrass.
- Sweet N’ Spicy: Introduce a tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Cilantro Kick: Stir chopped fresh cilantro into the marinade for a burst of herbal freshness that elevates your dish.
- Zesty Lime: Squeeze in some fresh lime juice before serving to add a tangy brightness that brightens the flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Thighs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to deepen wonderfully. Additionally, marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours ahead, ensuring they soak up that vibrant lemongrass flavor without affecting texture. When you’re ready to cook, simply remove the chicken from the fridge 30 minutes before grilling for even cooking. Finish by grilling for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, and you’ll enjoy the same delicious, fresh taste while cutting down on prep time during the week!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Lemongrass Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover grilled lemongrass chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled grilled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to label them!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet until warmed through, avoiding drying it out.
Make-Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 1 day in advance, and keep the marinade for up to 3 days in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best lemongrass for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting lemongrass, look for firm stalks with a fragrant aroma. The tender white inner parts are the best to use, while the outer green parts tend to be tough and fibrous. Fresh is ideal, but if you’re in a pinch, tube-style lemongrass paste can be a convenient substitute that still packs a punch of flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover grilled lemongrass chicken?
For sure! Make sure to let your leftover grilled lemongrass chicken cool before storing it. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. This will keep the meat moist and delicious for your next meal.
Can grilled lemongrass chicken be frozen?
Yes, indeed! For longer storage, you can freeze grilled lemongrass chicken. Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers after it cools. Be sure to label them with the date, as it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently!
What should I do if my chicken is overcooked?
No worries! If you find your grilled lemongrass chicken is overcooked, you can try a couple of remedies. First, shred the chicken and mix it into a broth or sauce to add moisture back. Alternatively, mixing it into a salad or a wrap with a flavorful dressing can help to make it more enjoyable. Always keep an eye on the timing the next time around!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This grilled lemongrass chicken is gluten-free, as long as you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. If you or your guests have allergies or aversions, this recipe can easily be adapted to include other proteins, like tofu for vegetarians or fish for a different twist, allowing everyone to enjoy it!
Savory Grilled Lemongrass Chicken in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Marinade: In a food processor, blend lemongrass, shallots, garlic, green chili, fish sauce, brown sugar, avocado oil, low-sodium soy sauce, and kosher salt until smooth and well-combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Place boneless chicken thighs in a bowl or Ziploc bag, pouring the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is coated well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat, getting it nice and hot.
- Grill Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until each piece is thoroughly cooked.