Grilled Vietnamese Chicken

Name: Grilled Vietnamese Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts); Garnish (optional): 2-3 green onions; 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 small lime); 1 1/2 tablespoons neutral or vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium is fine); 1/2 tablespoon fish sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 garlic cloves); 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (or more if desired); 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes; 1 tablespoon cilantro (and more for garnish if desired)

ByEmma July 20, 2025July 14, 2025

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If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion, then this Grilled Vietnamese Chicken recipe is for you. With a delicious marinade that combines sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. As someone who loves exploring different cuisines, I can guarantee that this recipe will become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The marinade infuses the chicken with amazing flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
This dish requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.
The leftovers are great for meal prep and can be used in salads, wraps, or sandwiches.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Chicken:

Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Garnish (optional): Green onions

For the Vietnamese Chicken Marinade:

Lime juice
Neutral or vegetable oil
Soy sauce
Fish sauce
Brown sugar
Minced garlic
Fresh grated ginger
Red chili flakes
Cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Marinate the chicken in the mixture of lime juice, oil, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, and cilantro.
Grill the chicken until cooked through and slightly charred.
Garnish with green onions before serving.

Helpful Tips:

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
You can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different twist.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use fresh lime juice for the marinade to enhance the citrusy flavor.
Grilling the chicken over medium-high heat will give it a nice char without drying it out.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Grilled Vietnamese Chicken with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, and a side of nuoc cham dipping sauce for a complete and authentic meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat the chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
Is fish sauce necessary for the marinade? Yes, fish sauce adds a unique umami flavor to the dish.
Can I grill the chicken indoors? Yes, you can use a grill pan or a broiler to cook the chicken indoors.
How long should I marinate the chicken for? It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate it for up to 24 hours for even more flavor.

Conclusion:

Experience the bold and delicious flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with this Grilled Vietnamese Chicken recipe. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving something different for dinner, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!

Emma

I’m a mom of two, a former marketing executive turned full-time food blogger, and someone who has always believed that great meals don’t have to take hours to prepare. My passion for cooking started in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her turn everyday ingredients into something magical. Since then, I’ve spent over 10 years refining my skills from mastering 30-minute dinners to developing shortcuts that make life easier without compromising taste.