Lemongrass chicken has become one of my go-to dishes when I want something that feels both light and deeply satisfying. The vibrant aroma of fresh lemongrass combined with savory garlic and a hint of sweetness creates a flavor profile that wakes up your taste buds without overwhelming them.
This recipe hits the sweet spot for anyone craving a dish that’s easy to prepare but delivers on both taste and nutrition.
One cooking tip that changed everything for me: pounding the chicken thighs to an even thickness helps the marinade soak in evenly and ensures a perfect, juicy cook every time.
This dish pairs wonderfully with Instant Pot Coconut Rice to soak up the flavorful juices, or a crisp, refreshing Thai Noodle Salad to complement the bright, herbaceous notes. Lemongrass chicken is trending right now because it fits perfectly into clean eating lifestyles—high in protein, low in carbs, and packed with fresh ingredients.
In fact, studies show that meals rich in herbs and citrus can enhance metabolism and aid digestion, making this dish a smart choice for anyone wanting to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor.
It’s fresh, vibrant, and just a little bit exotic.
Give this recipe a try and share how you make it your own!
Why This Is My Go-To Recipe?
- Quick and Flavorful: The lemongrass marinade turns simple chicken thighs into a fragrant, tasty dish in no time—ideal for those hectic weeknights.
- Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet, salty, and citrusy notes come together beautifully, keeping every bite exciting and satisfying.
- Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: Made with common staples, this recipe is easy to prepare without last-minute grocery runs.
- Healthy and Filling: It fits seamlessly into a balanced diet—light, high in protein, and deeply satisfying.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether grilled or pan-seared, each method offers unique textures and delicious results.
Lemongrass Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting board and Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Meat mallet or rolling pin (for pounding chicken)
- Skillet or grill pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped lemongrass
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs or more to taste, pounded to an even thickness
Instructions
- Pound chicken thighs to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- In a bowl, combine lemongrass, lemon juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, fish sauce, and canola oil to make the marinade.
- Add the chicken to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Remove chicken from the pan and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot, ideally alongside Instant Pot Coconut Rice or Thai Noodle Salad.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 308kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Protein | 29g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 339mg |
Tips For Perfect Lemongrass Chicken!
- Use Fresh Lemongrass When Possible: Fresh lemongrass has a brighter, more complex aroma than dried or powdered versions, which really elevates the marinade’s flavor. If using fresh, bruise the stalks slightly to release more oils.
- Don’t Skip Pounding the Chicken: Even thickness ensures the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the marinade better, giving you juicy, tender results every time.
- Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: While 30 minutes works in a pinch, letting the chicken sit overnight lets the lemongrass and spices fully penetrate, making each bite more aromatic and balanced.
- Adjust the Sweetness and Saltiness to Taste: The brown sugar and fish sauce combo creates a perfect balance, but feel free to tweak quantities depending on your palate or dietary preferences.
- Rest the Chicken After Cooking: Letting it rest for a few minutes before slicing helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Experiment with Cooking Methods: While pan-searing is quick and easy, grilling over charcoal or wood adds a smoky depth that takes this dish to the next level.
- Pair with Mild, Creamy Sides: The bold flavors of lemongrass chicken shine best when balanced with subtle sides like coconut rice or a fresh Thai noodle salad.
Quick Questions?
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Ans: Yes, but thighs stay juicier and absorb the marinade better. If using breasts, watch cooking time closely to avoid dryness.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
Ans: At least 30 minutes, but overnight gives the best depth of flavor.
Q: Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Ans: Simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute to keep it gluten-free.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh lemongrass?
Ans: You can use frozen lemongrass or high-quality dried lemongrass powder, but fresh always tastes best.
