Oh my goodness, let me tell you about *Thai lemongrass chicken*! This dish is a burst of flavor in every bite, with the bright notes of lemongrass and the savory depth of garlic and fish sauce just singing together. It’s like a mini vacation to Thailand right in your kitchen! I remember the first time I tried it at a local Thai restaurant; the aroma wafting through the air was heavenly! I practically begged for the recipe! Trust me, marinating the chicken is key—it allows all those incredible flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so exotic and delicious! So, let’s dive into this delightful dish together!
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor and juiciness
- 2 stalks lemongrass, minced, ensuring you get the tender, aromatic inner part
- 4 cloves garlic, minced, to bring a nice depth and warmth to the dish
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce, which adds that essential umami kick
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce for a hint of saltiness and richness
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar, balancing the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness
- 1 teaspoon black pepper for a mild heat and flavor boost
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, perfect for frying and helping the chicken brown nicely
- Fresh cilantro for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness on top
How to Prepare *Thai Lemongrass Chicken*
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making this mouthwatering *Thai lemongrass chicken*! First, you’ll want to start by marinating the chicken so it can soak up all those vibrant flavors. Just toss your chicken thighs into a bowl and add the minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Give it a good mix, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover it up and let it marinate for at least an hour, but if you can, let it sit for a few hours or even overnight! The longer, the better!
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating is where the magic happens! I always say, don’t rush this step. A good hour is essential, but if you can let it marinate overnight in the fridge, you’ll truly elevate the flavor. The lemongrass will infuse its citrusy aroma, and the garlic will work its savory wonders. Remember, the longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor will be!
Cooking Instructions
Once your chicken is marinated, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and deliciously fragrant. Pro tip: to check if they’re done, pierce the thickest part with a knife—the juices should run clear, not pink. Once cooked, take them off the heat, let them rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Wow, you’re going to love this!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Incredibly flavorful, thanks to the aromatic lemongrass and garlic
- Healthy and packed with protein from the chicken
- Gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions
Tips for Success
To really nail your *Thai lemongrass chicken*, don’t shy away from experimenting! If you can’t find fresh lemongrass, a teaspoon of lemongrass paste works in a pinch. Also, consider using chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat; just adjust the cooking time as they’ll cook a bit faster. For an extra flavor punch, add a splash of lime juice right before serving—it brightens everything up! And remember, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy. Trust me, these little tweaks can take your dish to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional goodness of this *Thai lemongrass chicken*! Each serving is estimated to have around 350 calories, with 15g of fat and a hearty 40g of protein—perfect for keeping you satisfied! You’ll also get about 10g of carbs and only 3g of sugar. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s a deliciously healthy option for any meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they cook faster than thighs.
What can I serve with *Thai lemongrass chicken*?
I recommend pairing it with jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad. The lightness of the salad complements the rich flavors beautifully!
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Is *Thai lemongrass chicken* spicy?
No, this dish isn’t spicy at all! The flavors are more aromatic and savory rather than heat-driven. If you want a kick, feel free to add some sliced chilies!
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken! Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe bag, and it should last for about 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving *Thai lemongrass chicken*, I love pairing it with fragrant jasmine rice—it soaks up all those delicious juices beautifully! You could also whip up a fresh cucumber salad with a tangy dressing to balance the flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with some Thai sticky rice or even a side of sautéed greens for a pop of color and nutrition. Trust me, these sides will elevate your meal to a whole new level!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your *Thai lemongrass chicken* fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the chicken. Enjoy it like it’s the first time!
For more information on the health benefits of lemongrass, check out this Healthline article. You’ll find that lemongrass is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients!
Print
Thai Lemongrass Chicken: 5 Tips for a Flavorful Success
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish featuring chicken marinated in Thai herbs and lemongrass.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 2 stalks lemongrass, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper for at least 1 hour.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add marinated chicken to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.
Notes
- Adjust the marinating time for stronger flavor.
- Serve with rice for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: thai lemongrass chicken, chicken recipes, thai cuisine
