Vietnamese Lemongrass and Chili Chicken Recipe

Vietnamese Lemongrass and Chili Chicken is a traditional dish commonly found in Vietnamese family meals. With its distinctive aroma from lemongrass, chili, and various spices, this dish is not only appealing but also easy to prepare. Let’s explore how to make authentic Vietnamese Lemongrass and Chili Chicken through this article.

Vietnamese Lemongrass and Chili Chicken Recipe – North, Central, and South Styles
Illustration of Vietnamese Lemongrass and Chili Chicken with vibrant colors and rich flavor.

Choosing Fresh Ingredients for Lemongrass and Chili Chicken

To make a delicious and authentic Lemongrass and Chili Chicken, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Here are some tips for choosing ingredients:

• Chicken: Opt for thigh or breast meat as they are tender and easily absorb flavors. The chicken should be fresh, with a bright pink color, smooth skin, and no unusual odor.
• Lemongrass and Chili: Choose fresh, firm lemongrass stalks with a strong aroma. For chili, adjust according to your spice preference, but use horn or bird’s eye chili for a balanced heat.
• Spices: Include fish sauce, sugar, pepper, garlic, shallots, ginger, and cooking oil. Ensure these spices are of high quality to achieve the perfect flavor.

Tips for Removing Chicken Odor

Before cooking, wash the chicken thoroughly with diluted saltwater or a mixture of white wine and ginger. This helps eliminate any gamy smell and makes the chicken tender.

Simple Recipe for Lemongrass and Chili Chicken at Home

Ingredients Needed

• 500g chicken (thighs or wings)
• 3 lemongrass stalks, 2 horn chilies, 2 bird’s eye chilies
• 1 piece of ginger, 1 head of garlic, 2 shallots
• Spices: fish sauce, sugar, seasoning powder, MSG, cooking oil, ground pepper
• Cilantro for garnish

Steps to Follow

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

• Chicken: Rinse, cut into bite-sized pieces, and let drain.
• Lemongrass: Crush and finely chop.
• Chili: Slice thinly or finely chop according to preference.
• Garlic, shallots, ginger: Peel and finely chop.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large bowl, add 1 teaspoon of seasoning powder, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1/2 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1/3 tablespoon of ground pepper, chopped lemongrass, chili, garlic, and shallots. Mix well and marinate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Chicken Marinated with Spices and Lemongrass
Chicken thoroughly marinated with lemongrass, chili, and spices.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

• Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan, then sauté the chopped garlic, shallots, and lemongrass until fragrant.
• Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until browned over low heat.
• Add a little water to the pan, cover, and simmer until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste, turn off the heat, and sprinkle with additional pepper and cilantro.

Guide to Cooking Lemongrass and Chili Chicken
Finished Lemongrass and Chili Chicken with appealing colors and rich flavor.

Regional Variations of Lemongrass and Chili Chicken

Each region in Vietnam has its unique way of preparing Lemongrass and Chili Chicken, reflecting local flavors.

Central Vietnamese Lemongrass and Chili Chicken Recipe

In Central Vietnam, coconut milk is often added to the dish for a richer taste. After browning the chicken, pour in coconut milk and simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens.

Southern Vietnamese Lemongrass and Chili Chicken Recipe

In the South, the dish leans towards a sweeter taste. You can increase the amount of sugar when marinating the chicken to balance the salty, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Turmeric Lemongrass and Chili Chicken

Adding fresh turmeric to the recipe makes the dish more nutritious. Turmeric not only gives the dish a beautiful yellow color but also offers health benefits.

Turmeric Lemongrass and Chili Chicken with Vibrant Yellow Color
Turmeric Lemongrass and Chili Chicken with a vibrant yellow color.

Conclusion

Lemongrass and Chili Chicken is a nutritious dish that is easy to prepare at home. With the detailed recipe above, you can make this dish to treat your family. Try out the regional variations to discover more unique flavors!

Wishing you success with your flavorful Lemongrass and Chili Chicken!

Lemongrass and Chili Chicken Served with White Rice and Soups
Lemongrass and Chili Chicken served with white rice and refreshing soups.