# Simple Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
This lemongrass chicken recipe is straightforward to prepare. Chicken thighs are enveloped in a delicious lemongrass marinade and grilled until succulent and tender. It’s a wonderful dish that brings the lively flavors of Southeast Asia straight to your home.
## What is Lemongrass Chicken?
Lemongrass chicken is a cherished dish in Thai and Vietnamese cooking, recognized for its fragrant and tangy flavor profile. The dish usually includes marinated chicken that is either grilled or sautéed, leading to a juicy and tasty meal. The primary ingredient, lemongrass, is an herb that provides a subtle lemon aroma and enriches marinades. Fresh lemongrass stalks can be found in most grocery shops, typically next to other fresh herbs. For ease, lemongrass paste can serve as a replacement.
To prepare fresh lemongrass, just peel off the tough outer layers and finely chop or mince the soft inner part. This method guarantees that the herb’s flavor infuses fully into the marinade.
## Ingredient Tips for Lemongrass Chicken
1. **Chicken**: The ideal choice for this dish is boneless, skinless chicken thighs due to their moisture and flavor. While chicken cutlets or breasts can work, it’s advisable to pound the breasts to a ½-inch thickness for uniform cooking.
2. **Lemongrass**: This herb is pivotal for the dish, delivering a gentle lemon taste. If fresh lemongrass isn’t on hand, lemongrass paste serves as a viable alternative. In a hurry, a touch of lemon zest may also suffice.
3. **Aromatics**: Fresh garlic and ginger are essential for deepening the flavor of the marinade. Steer clear of dried options, as they don’t provide the same depth.
4. **Fish Sauce**: This component adds a savory umami taste that amplifies the overall flavor of the dish.
5. **Brown Sugar**: Brown sugar introduces sweetness and aids in caramelizing the chicken during cooking. If preferred, honey can serve as a substitute.
## Variations
Feel free to enhance the marinade by including additional ingredients such as red pepper flakes, black pepper, Thai basil, sriracha, Thai chili paste, or gochujang for added heat.
## Preparing Lemongrass
To ready lemongrass for this dish, slice the stalk into pieces approximately 3 to 4 inches long and strip away the tough, woody outer layers. Finely chop the soft inner part to intensify flavor.
## Storing Leftover Lemongrass Chicken
Any leftover lemongrass chicken can be kept in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For extended storage, freeze portions in zippered bags for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat the chicken in the microwave or air fryer. It can be served as a new dish with sweet chili sauce or added to a quick stir-fry or coconut curry soup.
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## Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
**Servings**: 4
**Prep Time**: 1 hour 10 minutes
**Cook Time**: 6 minutes
**Total Time**: 1 hour 16 minutes
### Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
– 2 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– Red pepper flakes (optional)
### Instructions
1. **Prepare Lemongrass**: Cut the lemongrass into 3 to 4-inch pieces and remove the tough outer layers. Finely chop the tender inner portion.
2. **Make Marinade**: In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. **Marinate Chicken**: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat. Marinate for a minimum of 1 hour or up to 8 hours for enhanced flavor.
4. **Grill Chicken**: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest area.
### Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemongrass chicken over rice or rice noodles, adorned with fresh lime, cucumbers, bean sprouts, pea shoots, and fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint.
### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories