Lemongrass Chicken Thighs

January 22, 2026

Lemongrass chicken thighs are juicy, caramelized and loaded with flavor. These tender chicken thighs have a smokey, bold depth of flavor that are perfect for pairing with rice, salads and more. It’s a classic Vietnamese dish that will have you craving more. They are the perfect protein to prep and have throughout the week.

What’s lemongrass chicken?

Lemongrass chicken is a classic Vietnamese protein made with a flavorful blend of soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, fresh lemongrass, shallots, and garlic. The chicken is marinated, then grilled or baked until juicy and fragrant. It’s typically served with rice and a fresh salad, or enjoyed in popular vermicelli noodle bowls. Best of all, it’s a low-effort protein that delivers bold, aromatic flavor with minimal prep.

What’s lemongrass? What does it taste like?

Lemongrass is a fragrant herb commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking, especially in Vietnamese and Thai dishes. It’s a thick stalk and is usually minced or crushed to release its oils before cooking.

Flavor-wise, lemongrass is bright, citrusy, and slightly herbal—think lemon with a hint of ginger and a subtle floral note. It adds freshness without being sour and pairs beautifully with grilled meats. When used in marinades, it infuses the protein with a light, aromatic flavor that feels fresh, balanced, and comforting.

Why you’ll love this Lemongrass chicken?

It’s flavorful
Easy to make
Perfect for meal prep
If you love Asian cuisine, you’re going to love this chicken.

What you’ll need to make lemongrass chicken?

Chicken: you can use any protein you like. I prefer chicken thighs they’re juicy and caramelizes beautifully.
Lemongrass: Can be found fresh stalks or minced lemongrass from the freezer section at most grocery or Asian markets.
Sugar: Brown or palm sugar is traditionally used, but I’m using coconut sugar as a great alternative. It works beautifully and is a good option if you’re avoiding refined sugar.
Garlic: minced
Shallots: minced
Oyster Sauce: Adds rich umami and a slight sweetness to balance the marinade.
Fish Sauce: Provides saltiness and depth—don’t worry, it won’t taste fishy once cooked.
Dark Soy Sauce: Adds color and deeper, more robust flavor compared to regular soy sauce.
Neutral Oil: Helps carry flavor and keeps the chicken from drying out while cooking.
Ginger: optional.
Chili garlic sauce: or Sriracha for an extra kick, if desired.

What to serve this Lemongrass chicken with?

This lemongrass chicken is versatile and pairs well with fresh, simple sides that balance its bold flavor.

Mango Salad: Bright, refreshing, and slightly sweet—this is one of my favorite ways to enjoy it. A restaurant here in Houston does this pairing so well, and it’s perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
White Rice: A classic and traditional pairing in Vietnamese cuisine. The rice soaks up all that flavorful marinade and keeps the dish simple and comforting.
Cucumber Salad: Light, crisp, and refreshing. Perfect if you’re looking for something fresh to balance the savory chicken, especially for an easy lunch.
Asian Rice Noodle Salad: A great option if you want something heartier. Think rice noodles or vermicelli tossed with fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, and a light dressing for a well-rounded, flavorful meal.

More Asian recipes to try:

If you make my Lemongrass Chicken, please be sure to leave a comment, and or tag me on Instagram @cookwithci. I would love to see your recreations and hear your thoughts.