Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with this delicious Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Stir-Fry. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic lemongrass, garlic, and shallots, all brought together with a savory-sweet sauce. The addition of turmeric and fish sauce adds depth and authenticity, making this stir-fry a perfect option for a quick, yet flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken thighs, skin on, deboned and cut into 2-inch pieces (pat dry with paper towels)
- ¾ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional) – or substitute with mushroom seasoning
- 2 tablespoons of a mild oil (like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)Black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1½ tablespoons brown sugar (use 1 tablespoon for a lighter taste)
- 1½ tablespoons Vietnamese fish sauce (use 1 tablespoon for a lighter taste)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 3 tablespoons finely minced fresh lemongrass
- ¼ cup sliced shallots
- 1½ tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of dry sherry (or use a dry white wine as an alternative)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with turmeric powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken granulated bouillon (if using) for extra flavor.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and Vietnamese fish sauce until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, skin-side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy, then flip the pieces and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the minced lemongrass, sliced shallots, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and the shallots are translucent.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the stir-fried aromatics. Pour in the prepared sauce and the dry sherry (or white wine). Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the sauce and aromatics.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and garnish with additional black pepper or fresh herbs, if desired.
- Enjoy it warm alongside steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that brings the fresh, aromatic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine to your table. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant lemongrass, and a savory-sweet sauce makes this stir-fry both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a quick dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the vibrant and authentic tastes of Vietnam with every bite!