| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 290 | 17g | 3g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 1g | 27g | 1.3g |
Discovering the vibrant and aromatic dish Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken (Gà Xào Sả Ớt) was like opening a window to a new culinary world. As someone who is deeply rooted in New England cuisine, with its simple and fresh seafood-centric dishes, delving into the complexity of flavors in this Vietnamese recipe has been nothing short of a delightful adventure.
The Symphony of Flavors
What makes this recipe truly captivating is the symphony of flavors that each ingredient brings to the table. The lemongrass, minced finely, offers a citrusy and refreshing note that cuts through the richness of the chicken. Combined with the aromatic garlic and shallots, and the subtle heat from red chili peppers, every bite of this dish is a tantalizing experience.
The addition of fish sauce and soy sauce lends that quintessential umami depth, balancing the sweetness provided by a hint of sugar and the tanginess of fresh lime juice. When cooked together, they create a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and complex.
A Healthy Option
Aside from its remarkable taste, Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken is also a nutritious option for your meal rotation. Chicken thighs, being boneless and skinless, provide a source of lean protein – essential for the growth and repair of tissues. Lemongrass is rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Paired with jasmine rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions, this dish not only pleases the palate but also fortifies the body.
I love making this dish for my daughters, Erin and Samantha. Its beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes makes it a family favorite, and it’s a great way to introduce them to new flavors and traditions.
Similar Delights
If you enjoy Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, you might also appreciate dishes like Thai Basil Chicken or Singaporean Chicken Curry. These recipes also blend aromatic herbs with tender chicken, creating layers of flavors that are both intriguing and comforting.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp cabbage salad or a bowl of steamed vegetables, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory goodness of the chicken. For those interested in cooking healthier versions of your favorite dishes, check out [Cooking Light](https://www.cookinglight.com) for additional tips and recipe inspirations.
Once you’ve tried Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken (Gà Xào Sả Ớt), it may just become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. It’s a beautiful marriage of flavors and health benefits that promises a delightful dining experience for any occasion.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 stalk lemongrass, finely minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 small shallots, thinly sliced
- 2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
Method
Step One
Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Step Two
Add the finely minced lemongrass, minced garlic, and thinly sliced shallots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step Three
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and almost cooked through.
Step Four
Add the thinly sliced red chili peppers to the skillet and stir-fry for another minute.
Step Five
Pour in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Six
Season with 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper and stir to distribute evenly.
Step Seven
Add 1/2 cup of chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has reduced slightly.
Step Eight
Stir in 1 tablespoon of lime juice just before removing the skillet from heat.
Step Nine
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
Step Ten
Serve the Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken over cooked jasmine rice. Enjoy!
