Vietnamese Noodles with Fragrant Lemongrass Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Lemongrass Chicken

Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken is a vibrant and healthy dish that brings the flavors of Southeast Asia right to your kitchen table. This lemongrass chicken recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for those looking for a wholesome meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The combination of fragrant lemongrass-marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy Nuoc Cham sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the bustling streets of Vietnam.

Ease of Preparation: This lemongrass chicken recipe is simple and quick to make, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll find this Vietnamese noodles dish accessible and enjoyable to prepare. The preparation involves marinating the chicken for 1 to 24 hours, cooking it until golden and cooked through (about 6 to 8 minutes), resting and slicing the meat, soaking and rinsing the vermicelli noodles, and mixing the Nuoc Cham sauce until the sugar dissolves. It’s that simple!

Health Benefits: Packed with lean protein and the natural anti-inflammatory properties of lemongrass, this dish supports wellness and nutrition. According to health benefits of lemongrass, this aromatic herb is not only a flavor enhancer but also offers numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion and reducing inflammation. The lean chicken provides high-quality protein, while the abundance of fresh vegetables and herbs adds essential vitamins and minerals to your diet. This dish is gluten-free (with suitable substitutions), low in fat, fresh, and versatile, suitable for midweek meals or large groups.

Versatility: Adaptable to various diets, this recipe works well with gluten-free, low-calorie, and vegan substitutions. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking to switch up your weekly meal rotation, this Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken recipe can be customized to suit your needs. For a vegan option, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. The possibilities are endless!

Distinctive Flavor: The fresh, citrusy aroma of lemongrass combined with savory spices creates a unique and memorable taste experience. Lemongrass adds a bright, citrusy note that perfectly complements the savory chicken and the tangy Nuoc Cham sauce. The fresh herbs like mint and cilantro add another layer of freshness, while the crisp vegetables provide a satisfying crunch. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or preparing meals for the week ahead, this Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken recipe is sure to impress. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients. So, let’s dive into the culinary adventure and bring the flavors of Vietnam to your home kitchen!

For more delicious noodle recipes, check out our Hoisin Salmon Noodles for a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious!

Jump To

• 1. Why You’ll Love This Lemongrass Chicken
• 2. Essential Ingredients for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken
• 3. How to Prepare Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
• 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken
• 5. Mastering Lemongrass Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations
• 6. How to Store Lemongrass Chicken: Best Practices
• 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Lemongrass Chicken
• 8. Lemongrass Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

To create this authentic and flavorful Vietnamese noodle dish, you’ll need a variety of fresh and aromatic ingredients. The key components include lemongrass-marinated chicken, a tangy Nuoc Cham dipping sauce, and a medley of fresh vegetables and herbs for the noodle bowl. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the complex yet balanced flavors that make this dish so special. Let’s break down the essential components:

Chicken Marinade Ingredients

For the lemongrass chicken, you’ll need:

• 600-800g skinless, boneless chicken thigh or breast fillets
• 1 stalk bruised and sliced white lemongrass
• 2 cloves finely chopped garlic
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce as a substitute)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

The combination of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with the distinctive flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. The lime juice adds a bright, acidic note, while the brown sugar provides a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements. This marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps to tenderize it, ensuring juicy and succulent meat.

Nuoc Cham Sauce Ingredients

The tangy dipping sauce is the soul of this dish. To make the Nuoc Cham, you’ll need:

• 1/4 cup fish sauce
• 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 cloves chopped garlic
• 1 finely chopped red bird’s eye chili (adjustable)
• 3 tablespoons lime juice

This versatile sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more sugar. If you like it spicier, increase the amount of chili. This sauce can also be used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, a dressing for salads, or a marinade for other proteins.

Noodle Bowl Ingredients

For the noodle bowl assembly, you’ll need:

• 200g dried vermicelli noodles
• 1/2 tablespoon oil for cooking
• 2 julienned carrots
• 2 julienned cucumbers (seeds optional)
• 5 cups finely sliced iceberg lettuce
• 3 cups bean sprouts
• A handful of mint leaves
• A handful of cilantro or coriander
• Sliced red chili for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving

The fresh vegetables and herbs add color, texture, and a burst of freshness to the dish. The vermicelli noodles provide a satisfying base that absorbs all the flavors of the sauce and marinade. When assembled, this bowl is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for serving to guests or for a special family dinner.

How to Prepare Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delicious Vietnamese noodle dish. The preparation is straightforward and can be broken down into four main parts: preparing the chicken, making the Nuoc Cham sauce, preparing the noodles, and assembling the dish. Following these steps will ensure you create a flavorful and authentic Vietnamese meal right in your own kitchen.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by preparing the marinade. Bruise the white part of the lemongrass stalk by hitting it with the back of a knife or a rolling pin, then slice it thinly. Finely chop the garlic.
2. In a bowl, mix the bruised and sliced lemongrass, chopped garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil to create the marinade.
3. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 2 inches in size, to ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Making the Nuoc Cham Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, rice vinegar, white sugar, and water.
2. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. You can also microwave the mixture for 30 seconds to help dissolve the sugar more quickly.
3. Add the chopped garlic and finely chopped red bird’s eye chili. Adjust the amount of chili based on your spice preference.
4. Finally, stir in the lime juice. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavors as needed, adding more sugar for sweetness, more lime juice for acidity, or more fish sauce for saltiness.
5. Set the sauce aside until ready to serve. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Preparing the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the vermicelli noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as they can become mushy.
2. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
3. Toss the noodles with a half tablespoon of oil to prevent them from sticking together.
4. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the vegetables.

Cooking and Assembling the Dish

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and swirl to coat the pan.
2. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked vermicelli noodles among serving bowls. Arrange the lettuce, bean sprouts, carrots, cucumbers, mint, and cilantro on top of the noodles.
5. Add the sliced chicken to each bowl and garnish with sliced red chili if desired.
6. Generously drizzle the Nuoc Cham sauce over the bowls and serve with lime wedges on the side.
7. This dish can also be served buffet-style for guests to assemble their own bowls, which can be a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

One of the great things about this Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken recipe is its versatility. It can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences and restrictions without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just want to switch things up, these substitutions will help you create a delicious version of this dish that meets your needs.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If you’re looking to switch up the protein in this dish, here are some alternatives:

• Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegan-friendly option. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating, and cut it into cubes or slices similar in size to the chicken.
• Use skinless chicken breast for a leaner version. While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, chicken breast is lower in fat and calories.
• Try shrimp or turkey as alternative proteins. Shrimp will cook much faster than chicken, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• For a vegetarian option, you can also use portobello mushrooms or seitan, which will absorb the flavors of the marinade beautifully.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Customize the vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste and dietary needs:

• Swap lemongrass with lemon zest or lime leaves if lemongrass is unavailable. While the flavor won’t be exactly the same, these substitutes will still provide a citrusy note to the dish.
• Replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for vegetarian/vegan diets. Note that the flavor profile will change slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.
• Use coconut aminos as a gluten-free, lower-sodium sauce alternative. It has a slightly sweeter taste than soy sauce but works well in this recipe.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added texture and nutrients. These can be served raw or lightly steamed, depending on your preference.
• Adjust seasoning including ginger or chili for extra heat or flavor complexity. Adding freshly grated ginger to the marinade can enhance the aromatic qualities of the dish, while extra chili will increase the spice level.

Did you know that chicken is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients? According to the nutritional value of chicken, it’s an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals that are vital for a healthy diet. This makes our lemongrass chicken recipe not just a treat for your taste buds but also a nourishing choice for your body.

Mastering Lemongrass Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken recipe, you might want to experiment with some advanced techniques and variations to take this dish to the next level. These tips will help you enhance the flavors and presentation of your lemongrass chicken, making it even more impressive and enjoyable.

Pro Cooking Techniques

• Use a mortar and pestle to crush lemongrass and garlic to release more oils for intensified flavor. The more surface area exposed, the more aromatic oils are released, resulting in a more fragrant and flavorful dish.
• For extra crispy chicken, you can coat the marinated chicken pieces in cornstarch before cooking. This will create a light, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside.
• If you prefer grilling, the marinated chicken can be cooked on a grill or grill pan for a smoky flavor that complements the citrusy notes of the lemongrass.

Flavor Variations

• Add coconut milk to create a creamy, rich sauce. After cooking the chicken, add about 1/2 cup of coconut milk to the pan and simmer until slightly thickened. This creates a luscious sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Include kaffir lime leaves for a citrusy twist. Tear the leaves and add them to the marinade or directly to the pan while cooking for an extra layer of citrusy aroma.
• For a Thai-inspired variation, add a tablespoon of red curry paste to the marinade. This will give the chicken a spicy and complex flavor profile that pairs well with the noodles and fresh vegetables.

Presentation Tips

• Serve lemongrass chicken on banana leaves for an authentic presentation. Line the serving bowls or platters with fresh banana leaves for a tropical touch that enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
• Arrange the ingredients in separate bowls for a DIY noodle bar. This interactive presentation is perfect for parties and allows each person to customize their bowl according to their preferences.
• Garnish with additional fresh herbs like Thai basil or perilla for a burst of color and aroma. These herbs add an authentic touch and elevate the overall flavor of the dish.

Make-Ahead Options

• Marinate chicken overnight to deepen flavors. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. You can prepare the marinade and chicken the night before and refrigerate until ready to cook.
• Cook in bulk and freeze in portioned containers for quick meals. After cooking, let the chicken cool completely before storing it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Prepare the Nuoc Cham sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together over time, making the sauce even more delicious. It can be stored for up to a week in a sealed container.

How to Store Lemongrass Chicken: Best Practices

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and safety of your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken. Whether you have leftovers or you’re meal prepping for the week ahead, these storage guidelines will ensure that your dish remains fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat.

Refrigeration

Store cooked lemongrass chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. It’s important to let the chicken cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess and bacterial growth. If you’ve assembled the noodle bowls, it’s best to store the components separately: the chicken in one container, the noodles in another, and the vegetables and herbs in a third. The Nuoc Cham sauce can be stored in a small jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze portions in sealed freezer bags or containers for up to 2 months. Marinated raw chicken can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and marinade together in a freezer bag to ensure even distribution of flavors. When you’re ready to use the frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the meat to continue absorbing the marinade, resulting in better flavor and tenderness. Cooked chicken can be frozen, but note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to preserve quality and safety. For the stovetop method, add a small amount of oil to a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until heated through, stirring occasionally. For the microwave, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot. It’s important not to overheat the chicken as it can become dry and tough.

Meal Prep Considerations

Cool the chicken completely before refrigeration or freezing to prevent moisture buildup and use within recommended times for optimal taste. When meal prepping, consider storing the components separately to maintain their individual textures and flavors. The noodles can be stored with a little oil to prevent sticking, the vegetables can be kept in airtight containers with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, and the herbs should be stored with a slightly damp paper towel to keep them fresh. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken, assemble your bowl, and drizzle with the Nuoc Cham sauce for a fresh and delicious meal in minutes.

Nutritional Information

This Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	540 kcal
Carbohydrates	65.2g
Protein	39.9g
Fat	13.6g
Fiber	3.9g
Serving Size	653g

This dish provides a well-balanced meal with a good balance of macronutrients, making it suitable for those following a balanced diet. The high protein content helps keep you feeling full, while the carbohydrates provide energy for your daily activities. The moderate fat content adds flavor and helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the fresh vegetables and herbs.

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FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Lemongrass Chicken

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