Name: Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 600 g chicken thigh fillets (skinless and boneless); 1 stalk lemongrass (white part only, bruised and sliced); 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced); 2 tbsp lime juice; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce (all purpose or light, NOT dark soy); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/4 cup fish sauce; 4 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp white sugar; 1/2 cup water; 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped); 3 tbsp lime juice; 1/2 tbsp oil; 200 g vermicelli noodles (dried); 5 cups iceberg lettuce (finely sliced); 3 cups bean sprouts; 1 handful mint leaves; 1 handful cilantro/coriander

Introduction to Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

If you're a young professional juggling work and personal life, finding easy-to-make, nutritious meals is essential. Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken is the perfect solution. This vibrant dish offers a delightful balance of fresh flavors and textures, making it a quick favorite for those busy nights when you crave something both comforting and healthy.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—whether you're using chicken, beef, or seafood, you can customize it to your liking. The marinade, featuring fresh lemongrass and a hint of lime, transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal in just 30 minutes. Plus, if you're looking to impress friends, this dish is effortless to assemble in a DIY style, letting everyone create their unique bowls.

According to recent studies, incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet can improve overall health and well-being. With its rich combination of fresh vegetables and herbs, this noodle dish not only hits nutritious notes but also makes for an Insta-worthy dinner. Curious about how to make it? Let's dive into the full recipe and discover just how easy it is to whip up these mouthwatering Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken!

Ingredients for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

To whip up a delightful bowl of Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken, you'll need to gather some essential ingredients that bring this dish to life. Let's break it down.

Key Ingredients for the Chicken and Marinade

For the chicken and marinade, you'll need:

600 – 800g skinless and boneless chicken thighs (or feel free to substitute with pork, beef, or seafood)
1 stalk of lemongrass (only the white part, bruised)
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
Lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil

These ingredients create the perfect balance of flavor that'll have everyone asking for seconds!

Essential Items for the Nuoc Cham Sauce

The Nuoc Cham sauce is a must-have for a full flavor experience:

¼ cup fish sauce
Rice vinegar, white sugar, water, garlic, a red bird's-eye chili, and lime juice

This sauce adds that punchy, tangy goodness that brightens up each bite!

Must-Have Components for the Noodle Bowl

Lastly, for the noodle bowl, you’ll want:

Dried vermicelli noodles, julienned carrots and cucumbers (if desired), iceberg lettuce, bean sprouts, mint leaves, and cilantro
Optional garnishes: sliced red chili and lime wedges

With these ingredients in hand, you'll be all set to create a flavorful and fresh dish that’s sure to impress! Want to learn more about the benefits of these ingredients? Check out resources like Healthline for more information.

Step-by-step Preparation of Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Creating delicious Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken at home is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Follow these simple steps to impress your family and friends with a flavor-packed meal that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating your chicken to infuse it with vibrant flavors. In a bowl, combine 600-800g of skinless and boneless chicken thigh fillets with 1 stalk of bruised and sliced lemongrass, 2 finely chopped garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil into the mixture for extra moisture. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, but if you have time, letting it sit for up to 24 hours in the fridge will take the taste to another level.

Cook the Lemongrass Chicken

Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to cook it. Heat ½ tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat (or preheat the BBQ). Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any large pieces of lemongrass (a few small bits are fine). Add the chicken to the pan, cooking each side until it is dark golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 6 to 8 minutes in total. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin pieces.

Prepare the Nuoc Cham Sauce

No Vietnamese dish is complete without a tangy dipping sauce! For the Nuoc Cham, blend ¼ cup of fish sauce, 4 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of white sugar, and ½ cup of water. Stir in 2 finely chopped garlic cloves and 1 minced red bird’s eye chili for a kick! Be sure to taste and adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your preference. Set it aside for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Soak and Prepare the Vermicelli Noodles

While everything is cooking, it’s time to prepare the noodles. Soak 200 grams of dried vermicelli noodles in hot water for about 3 minutes or according to the packaging instructions. Once they’re tender, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Assemble Your Noodle Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Whether you prefer to serve individual bowls or create a DIY noodle bowl spread, the choice is yours. For individual servings, place a generous amount of noodles in each bowl and top them with julienned carrots, cucumbers, finely sliced iceberg lettuce, bean sprouts, fresh mint leaves, and cilantro. Finally, lay those mouth-watering slices of lemongrass chicken on top and drizzle with 4 tablespoons of the Nuoc Cham sauce. Serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zest!

By following these steps, you’ll create a delightful dish of Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken that will transport you straight to the streets of Vietnam. Enjoy sharing this delicious meal with loved ones—it's a tasty experience worth savoring!

Variations on Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptations

If you're leaning towards a plant-based lifestyle, Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken can seamlessly adapt! Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh. Marinate the tofu the same way you would the chicken for that delightful lemongrass flavor. For added texture and taste, you might also consider using mushrooms like shiitake or king oyster, both of which can absorb flavors beautifully.

Incorporating Different Proteins

Craving something a bit different? This dish is incredibly versatile! You can incorporate beef or seafood like shrimp or fish. Simply adjust the cooking time—beef should be thinly sliced for quick pan-searing, while seafood cooks quickly, just a few minutes until opaque. Enhance the flavors by using the same marinade as the chicken, ensuring each protein shines through with that signature lemongrass zing. Check out more about protein choices here.

Embrace these variations and make this dish your own!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Tips for Perfecting the Marinade

Achieving the perfect marinade for your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken is all about balance. Ensure you really take your time to mix the lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce well—you want every piece of chicken to soak up those fragrant flavors. If possible, let the chicken marinate overnight for a more intense taste. A great way to enhance flavor is to finely chop or mince the lemongrass, but remember to avoid any tough pieces.

Adjusting Spiciness in the Nuoc Cham Sauce

When it comes to the Nuoc Cham sauce, everyone's palate is different! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of chili or substitute it with a milder pepper. Alternatively, for those who love a kick, feel free to up the chili ante. Taste your sauce as you go, adjusting lime juice, sugar, and fish sauce for a well-rounded flavor profile. This method guarantees that your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken will be just the way you like them!

For more tips on balancing flavors in Asian cuisine, check out this guide from Serious Eats.

Serving Suggestions for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Creative Plating Ideas

Elevate your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken by incorporating vibrant colors and textures on the plate. Use shallow bowls or flat plates to showcase the noodles and layered vegetables. Arrange the sliced lemongrass chicken neatly on top, drizzling the Nuoc Cham sauce artfully over the dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts and a sprig of mint for an inviting touch. Experiment with bowl stacking, layering your ingredients for a waterfall effect that’s visually appealing.

Suggested Side Dishes and Beverages

Complement your meal with fresh spring rolls or a light cucumber salad to balance the flavors. For beverages, consider serving iced green tea or a refreshing coconut juice, as they pair well with the zesty flavors of the dish. Looking for a crunch? Add crispy fried shallots on the side for texture! These choices not only enhance the dining experience but also provide additional nutrition. For more beverage ideas, check out Bon Appétit’s drink suggestions.

Time Breakdown for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Preparation time
To get started, you'll need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients. This includes marinating the chicken and getting your veggies ready. Don’t rush through this; it’s all about flavor!

Cooking time
The actual cooking will take around 20 minutes. This includes sautéing the chicken to juicy perfection and preparing the noodles.

Total time
In total, you're looking at roughly 35 minutes of active cooking time. However, if you marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight, this dish becomes a convenient option for meal prep!

For more details on mastering this recipe, check out this guide on making the perfect noodle bowl. Enjoy your cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Calories per serving
One serving of Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken contains approximately 540 calories, making it a satisfying yet balanced meal option.

Protein content
Packed with protein, this dish offers around 39.9 grams per serving, thanks to the succulent chicken. This helps fuel your day, whether you’re hitting the gym or powering through a busy work session.

Sodium levels
While delicious, the sodium content is relatively high, clocking in at 1963 mg per serving. If you're watching your intake, consider using low-sodium soy sauce and fish sauce alternatives to lower these levels without sacrificing flavor.

For more insights on nutrition and meal planning, you might find this article from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health helpful!

FAQs about Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Can I meal prep Vietnamese noodles for the week?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and cook it ahead of time, then store it in an airtight container. The noodles and vegetables can also be prepped in advance. Just keep everything separate until you’re ready to eat. This way, the ingredients stay fresh, and you can enjoy a delicious meal any day of the week!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For leftovers, divide the components into separate containers. Store the noodles and chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken on the stove and toss it with the noodles and fresh veggies. Always refresh your bowl with a splash of Nuoc Cham for that zingy flavor!

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! To make Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. Check the labels on your fish sauce as well, and you’re good to go! Enjoy your flavorful bowl without worrying about gluten!

Conclusion on Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

In conclusion, Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken are a vibrant dish bursting with flavor and freshness. Easy to customize, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Enjoy this delightful meal that brings a taste of Vietnam to your table!