Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun sets, the enticing aroma of grilled chicken wafts through the air, whisking me away to the vibrant streets of Vietnam. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Grilled Vietnamese Chicken with Umami Marinade, a glorious fusion of flavors that makes cooking a joy rather than a chore. With simple yet rich ingredients like fish sauce, fresh lime, and aromatic lemongrass, this beginner-friendly recipe transforms succulent chicken thighs into a quick and flavorful meal ready in just 15 minutes on the grill. Not only does this dish lend itself beautifully to casual weeknight dinners, but it also offers a light, low-calorie option—perfect for those of us looking to savor every delicious bite while keeping meals satisfying and nutritious. Curious to experience a taste of Vietnam right in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in! Why Try Grilled Vietnamese Chicken? Flavor Explosion: Experience the intense flavors of this dish where fish sauce, lime, and lemongrass come together for an unforgettable taste. Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 15 minutes! Low-Calorie Delight: With approximately 350 calories per serving, you can indulge guilt-free, making it suitable for health-conscious food lovers. Versatile Meals: Serve it over soba noodles, in wraps, or alongside a fresh salad for endless serving possibilities. Authentic Experience: Bring a taste of Vietnam to your table, infusing your meals with exotic and vibrant flavors that impress family and friends alike. Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to cooking, this dish offers a straightforward approach to grilling, ensuring everyone can enjoy exceptional home-cooked flavors! Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Ingredients • Discover the essential components of this flavorful dish! For the Marinade Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, perfect for marinating and grilling. Fish Sauce – Delivers umami depth, an essential ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine. Soy Sauce – Provides savory richness to balance the marinade. Honey – Adds natural sweetness and enhances caramelization for that beautiful grill crust. Minced Garlic – Infuses pungent warmth and aromatic depth in every bite. Minced Lemongrass – Offers a bright, citrusy aroma that elevates the marinade; opt for fresh for the best flavor. Vegetable Oil – Helps to blend the marinade and prevents the chicken from sticking. Black Pepper – Adds mild heat to complement the marinade’s sweetness; adjust to your taste. Sugar – Balances the tartness from lime juice and aids caramelization; reduce if desired. Lime Juice – Brightens the dish with zesty acidity, refreshing your palate. For Serving Fresh Cilantro – Garnish that adds a fresh herbal note, enhancing the dish. Sliced Cucumbers – Provide a crisp contrast to the warm, grilled chicken. Lime Wedges – Squeeze over the chicken for an extra burst of brightness before enjoying. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Step 1: Prepare Marinade In a mixing bowl, combine fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced lemongrass, vegetable oil, black pepper, sugar, and lime juice. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, creating a fragrant marinade that embodies the essence of Grilled Vietnamese Chicken. This flavor-packed mixture will infuse the chicken with vibrant tastes, so make sure it’s well-mixed before proceeding. Step 2: Marinate Chicken Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a zip-lock bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring that every piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor). This marinating step is crucial for achieving the bold flavors characteristic of Grilled Vietnamese Chicken. Step 3: Grill Preparation Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C) for perfect cooking. While the grill heats up, clean and lightly oil the grates using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. This step prevents the chicken from sticking, allowing you to achieve those beautiful grill marks and a wonderfully charred exterior while grilling your Vietnamese chicken. Step 4: Grill Chicken Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting any excess drip off before placing them on the grill. Grill the chicken for about 4–5 minutes on each side, aiming for a nice char while ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Look for a golden-brown color and juices running clear to confirm they’re perfectly cooked and ready to serve. Step 5: Rest and Slice Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender pieces of Grilled Vietnamese Chicken. After resting, slice the chicken against the grain into strips, which will enhance the texture and make for an attractive presentation on your platter. Step 6: Serve Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on a serving platter and garnish it with fresh cilantro. Pair with crisp cucumber slices and lime wedges for a refreshing touch. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors bring this dish to life, inviting everyone to enjoy the wonderful experience of Grilled Vietnamese Chicken right at the dining table. Make Ahead Options These Grilled Vietnamese Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance—just place the chicken thighs in a zip-lock bag with the marinade, seal it well, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring each bite is just as delicious when cooked. If you want to prep even further, slice the garnishes like cucumbers and cilantro ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to grill, simply preheat your grill and cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side. Enjoy the convenience of these make-ahead options while savoring the vibrant flavors of your Grilled Vietnamese Chicken! Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Variations Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these delicious variations! Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless breasts; just adjust grilling time to avoid dryness. Lemongrass Alternative: If fresh lemongrass isn’t available, use lime zest for a bright citrusy flavor. It’s an easy fix that offers a subtler twist! Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili sauce to the marinade for an added layer of heat. It elevates the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish. Flavorful Sides: Pair your grilled chicken with different sides—think a light vinaigrette salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness. It creates a colorful summer meal! Vegan Option: Replace the chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative that still captures the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Sweet and Tangy: Experiment with replacing honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness that complements the zesty lime. Herbal Boost: Add fresh basil or mint leaves alongside cilantro for a herbaceous kick that mirrors the freshness of Vietnamese dishes like Korean Chicken Bao! Grilled Vegetables: Grill bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus alongside the chicken for a colorful and nutritious medley, enhancing the dish both visually and nutritionally. Don’t hesitate to explore these variations to discover your ideal version of Grilled Vietnamese Chicken, reminiscent of delightful meals shared with loved ones! What to Serve with Grilled Vietnamese Chicken? As you relish the flavors of this delightful grilled dish, let’s explore the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal. Creamy Coconut Rice: This rich, aromatic rice enhances the dish’s tropical vibes, perfectly balancing the savory flavors of the chicken. Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and brightens each bite. Flavorful Soba Noodles: Tossed in sesame oil and topped with fresh herbs, these noodles offer a delightful contrast to the grilled chicken’s textures. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant complement the dish beautifully, adding a smokiness that pairs well with the umami marinade. To round off your culinary experience, consider a light dessert: Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet, creamy treat that ties in tropical flavors, making for a satisfying conclusion to your meal. Iced Vietnamese Coffee: Serve this smooth coffee with condensed milk for a refreshing finish that represents the vibrant cafe culture of Vietnam. Expert Tips for Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Marinate Longer: Let the chicken marinate for a minimum of 2 hours, preferably overnight, to fully absorb the robust flavors of the grilled Vietnamese chicken. Choose the Right Cut: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts, as they remain juicier and more tender during grilling, enhancing the overall taste. Watch the Heat: Preheat the grill and maintain medium-high heat to achieve a perfect char without burning the chicken—keep a close eye on it! Rest Before Slicing: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This crucial step locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. Adjust for Preferences: Feel free to customize flavors—add more honey for sweetness or a splash of chili sauce for heat; find your perfect balance in the grilled Vietnamese chicken! How to Store and Freeze Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Grilled Vietnamese Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days, ensuring the flavors remain intact and the chicken stays juicy. Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer bag. This will keep for up to 2 months, ideal for ready-to-go meals later. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through, maintaining that tender texture. Grilled Vietnamese Chicken Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they are incredibly tender and juicier when grilled. They absorb the marinade beautifully, giving you that rich flavor you’re looking for in grilled Vietnamese chicken. Using chicken breasts could lead to dryness, so choose thighs for the best results! How should I store leftover Grilled Vietnamese Chicken? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure it is sealed tightly to retain moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the grill or in the oven. Can I freeze Grilled Vietnamese Chicken? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This method prevents freezer burn and helps maintain flavor. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat to keep it juicy. What if my chicken sticks to the grill? This can happen sometimes, especially if your grill isn’t properly pre-heated or oiled. Always pre-heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates using a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil. If it sticks, allow it to cook a bit longer; it often releases from the grill naturally when it’s ready! Is this recipe suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions? If you or your guests have fish allergies, you might want to substitute the fish sauce with a soy sauce alternative to maintain flavor. Additionally, while this recipe is low-calorie, it’s always best to check ingredient labels for allergens like gluten in soy sauce if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy the flavors of grilled Vietnamese chicken while making it work for everyone! Can I substitute or add different ingredients in the marinade? The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility! You can certainly substitute lime zest for lemongrass if you’re in a pinch or even add chili sauce for some heat. Experimenting with your favorite flavors can yield delicious variations while maintaining the essence of grilled Vietnamese chicken. Savory Grilled Vietnamese Chicken for a Flavorful Feast Experience the vibrant flavors of Grilled Vietnamese Chicken, a quick and flavorful dish infused with umami marinade and perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsMarinating Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: ChickenCuisine: VietnameseCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs3 tablespoons Fish Sauce3 tablespoons Soy Sauce2 tablespoons Honey3 cloves Minced Garlic2 stalks Minced Lemongrass2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil1 teaspoon Black Pepper1 teaspoon Sugar2 tablespoons Lime JuiceFor Serving1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro for garnish1 cup Sliced Cucumbers for serving1 whole Lime Wedges for serving Equipment GrillMixing BowlZip-Lock BagPaper Towel Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a mixing bowl, combine fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced lemongrass, vegetable oil, black pepper, sugar, and lime juice. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.Place the chicken thighs in a zip-lock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, coating thoroughly. Seal or cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C) and clean the grates with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain into strips.Arrange grilled chicken on a platter, garnished with cilantro, cucumber slices, and lime wedges. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg NotesFor best results, marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor. Adjust the sweetness and heat to your preference in the marinade. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
