Spicy Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

Spicy Lemongrass Chicken

Introduction:

Spicy Lemongrass Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful Vietnamese dish that beautifully combines the citrusy zest of lemongrass with the kick of chili peppers. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating this tantalizing dish in your own kitchen, bringing the taste of Vietnamese cuisine right to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 stalks lemongrass, outer leaves removed, finely minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For Cooking:

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
  • Cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

  • In a bowl, combine the lemongrass, minced garlic, chopped chili peppers, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until they are well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or you can refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight for more flavor.

2. Heat the Pan:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.

3. Cook the Chicken:

  • Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink and has a slightly charred exterior.

4. Add Vegetables:

  • Toss in the sliced onions, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables become tender yet still crisp.

5. Garnish and Serve:

  • Remove the Spicy Lemongrass Chicken from heat.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
  • Serve hot over jasmine rice or rice noodles.

Variations and Tips:

  • You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili peppers.
  • For an extra kick, consider topping your dish with roasted peanuts or sesame seeds.

Conclusion:

Spicy Lemongrass Chicken is a tantalizing Vietnamese dish known for its aromatic lemongrass and spicy kick. This recipe allows you to recreate this vibrant and flavorful chicken stir-fry at home, ensuring that every bite is a delightful balance of heat and zesty lemongrass. Enjoy your homemade Spicy Lemongrass Chicken with rice or noodles for a truly satisfying meal.