Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken 

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken, or Gà Nướng Sả, is a fragrant and flavorful dish that showcases the aromatic qualities of lemongrass. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and lime juice, allowing the flavors to infuse the meat. Cooking the marinated chicken results in a golden, slightly crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. This dish is often served with steamed rice or vegetables, making it a versatile and satisfying meal. Its balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors makes it a favorite in Vietnamese cuisine. 

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  
  

• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
  
  

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 2 shallots, finely chopped
  
  

• 2 tbsp fish sauce
  
  

• 1 tbsp soy sauce
  
  

• 1 tbsp sugar
  
  

• 1 tbsp lime juice
  
  

• ¼ cup vegetable oil
  
  

• Fresh cilantro for garnish
  
  

• Sliced chilies for garnish (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, shallots, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and lime juice. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
   
   

2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
   
   

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
   
   

4. Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
   
   

5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the sliced chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced chilies, if desired. Serve with steamed rice or a side of vegetables.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 290 kcal
  
  

• Protein: Approximately 25g
  
  

• Fat: Approximately 20g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g
  
  

• Fiber: Approximately 1g
  
  

• Sodium: Approximately 800mg