Name: Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 600-800 g chicken thigh fillets, skinless and boneless (or breast, pork, beef, or any seafood); 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; 1 sliced red chilli for garnish ((optional)); 1 lime wedges to serve ((optional but recommended))

Introduction to Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

If you’re a busy young professional juggling work and social commitments, discovering the world of homemade Vietnamese noodles is a game changer. With recipes like Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken, you can whip up a delicious meal that's not only quick but bursting with fresh flavors. In just under an hour, you’ll be enjoying a vibrant dish that brightens any evening.

Why opt for homemade? Many Vietnamese dishes offer a beautiful balance of textures and tastes—crispy veggies, fragrant herbs, and savory proteins. And when you prepare it yourself, you control every ingredient, making it easy to suit your preferences, whether you're aiming for gluten-free options or looking to spice things up. Plus, did you know that cooking at home can save you money? According to the USDA, a well-planned home-cooked meal is typically cheaper than takeout.

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious, fresh food throughout the week. Whether you’re remaking it for lunch or a dinner party, your taste buds will thank you. Let’s dive into making this vibrant Vietnamese classic that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

When it comes to creating Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken, the right ingredients are essential in bringing out authentic flavors. Let’s break it down into three key components!

Chicken and Marinade Ingredients

600 – 800g / 1.2 – 1.6lb chicken thigh fillets (skinless and boneless, or use beef or seafood)
1 stalk lemongrass (white part only, bruised and sliced into pieces)
2 garlic cloves (finely chopped or minced)
2 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce (all-purpose or light)
2 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Nuoc Cham (Vietnamese Sauce) Ingredients

¼ cup fish sauce
4 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoon white sugar
½ cup water
2 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
1 red bird’s eye chili (finely chopped, adjust to taste)
3 tablespoon lime juice

Noodle Bowl Ingredients

½ tablespoon oil
200 g / 7 oz dried vermicelli noodles
2 carrots (julienned)
2 cucumbers (julienned, optional: remove seeds)
5 cups iceberg lettuce (finely sliced)
3 cups bean sprouts
Handful of mint leaves
Handful of cilantro/coriander
Sliced red chili (for garnish, optional)
Lime wedges (to serve, highly recommended)

Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect bowl of noodles that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing! You can dive deeper into the nuances of flavor by exploring fish sauce and its culinary importance. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

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

Making Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken at home isn't just a cooking task; it's an invitation to experience a vibrant and flavorful dish that can transport you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. Let's walk through the steps together, ensuring that you not only follow the recipe but also enjoy the process!

Marinade the chicken

To start this culinary adventure, the first step is to prep your chicken. Choose between 600g to 800g of chicken thigh fillets or breasts. Combine the chicken with the marinade ingredients: one stalk of bruised lemongrass (remember to only use the white part), minced garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix everything well and let it sit for at least one hour—this is where the magic happens! For deeper flavor, you can even marinate it overnight.

Cook the lemongrass chicken

When the chicken has soaked up those delicious flavors, it’s time to cook! Heat half a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Shake off the larger pieces of lemongrass from the chicken, then place the chicken in the pan. Cook until it’s beautifully golden brown and just cooked through, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes in total. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin pieces. The aroma will be irresistible!

Prepare the Nuoc Cham sauce

Next, let’s whip up that iconic sauce—Nuoc Cham, a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. Combine fish sauce, rice vinegar, white sugar, water, finely chopped garlic, red chili, and lime juice in a small bowl. Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved. Adjust the flavors to your liking, whether you prefer it spicier or more citrusy. Allow it to sit for at least 20 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cook and rinse the vermicelli noodles

Now, onto the star of the dish—the vermicelli noodles. Boil water and soak the dried noodles for about 3 minutes or according to the package instructions. This is a quick step, but rinsing the noodles under cold water afterward is crucial to prevent them from sticking together. They should be soft yet chewy, perfect for your bowl.

Assemble your bowl

Finally, it's time to put everything together! Start by placing a generous portion of noodles in a bowl. Top with the beautifully sliced lemongrass chicken, fresh veggies like julienned carrots and cucumbers, bean sprouts, and fragrant herbs such as mint and cilantro. Drizzle liberally with your homemade Nuoc Cham sauce—don’t be shy! Garnish with sliced red chili and lime wedges for an extra zing.

And voila! You now have a delicious bowl of Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken that not only satisfies but also looks stunning. Enjoy it solo or spread the joy by serving it DIY style, where everyone can create their perfect bowl!

Variations on Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Substitute Proteins for Custom Options

While Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken is a classic, feel free to switch things up! If chicken isn't your vibe, you can try thinly sliced beef, pork, or even seafood like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein will soak up that zesty lemongrass marinade, allowing you to customize the dish to your preferences. You might even enjoy using turkey or chicken ham for a unique twist. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking times based on the protein to achieve optimal tenderness.

Try Different Vegetables

The beauty of Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken lies in its versatility! Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Beyond the classic carrots and cucumbers, consider adding bell peppers, broccoli, or even snap peas for an extra crunch. You can also toss in some grilled zucchini or radishes for that unique touch. Remember, the more colors on your plate, the healthier and more appealing your meal becomes. It’s all about balancing flavors and textures to create your perfect noodle bowl!

For more ideas on customizing your dishes, consider exploring resources like Serious Eats for innovative cooking tips.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Tips for perfecting your marinade

To truly elevate your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken, let your chicken marinate for at least 1 hour—ideally up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. Consider adding a splash of coconut milk for extra richness. Remember to bruise the lemongrass well; the more it's broken down, the more aromatic oils you release.

How to adjust spice levels

If you're sensitive to heat, start with less chili in your Nuoc Cham sauce. You can always add more later! For a kid-friendly version, serve the chili on the side. The interplay of flavors—sweet, tangy, and savory—will still shine through, even if you dial down the spice. If you're looking for a unique twist, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to your noodle bowl for an extra kick without overwhelming heat.

For more on cooking with lemongrass, check out resources like Serious Eats for in-depth cooking tips!

Serving Suggestions for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Make it a DIY Noodle Bowl Spread

One of the best things about Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken is their versatility! Set up a DIY noodle bowl spread where everyone can create their perfect meal. Lay out bowls filled with the tender lemongrass chicken, fresh vegetables like julienned carrots and cucumbers, crispy lettuce, and vibrant herbs. Don’t forget the vermicelli noodles and a generous bowl of the flavorful nuoc cham sauce for drizzling. This interactive setup not only makes for a fun dining experience but allows each person to customize according to their taste.

Garnishes that Elevate the Dish

To truly enhance your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken, consider adding optional garnishes. Fresh mint and cilantro lend bright flavors, while sliced red chilies provide a spicy kick. A squeeze of lime just before serving not only brightens the dish but also balances the rich flavors, making every bite a harmonious blend of savory and zesty. For crunch, toss in some roasted peanuts or crispy fried shallots. These small touches will elevate your noodle bowls to a whole new level!

Time Breakdown for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Preparation time
To get started on this flavorful dish, set aside about 15–30 minutes for preparation. This includes marinating the chicken and assembling the fresh ingredients, ensuring everything is prepped perfectly for a delightful meal.

Cooking time
Once you're ready to cook, you'll need approximately 20 minutes. This includes cooking the marinated chicken to juicy perfection and mixing up the Nuoc Cham sauce while the noodles soak.

Total time
In total, you can whip up these delicious Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken in about 40–60 minutes, depending on your prep and cooking speed. It’s well worth the time for a satisfying meal that bursts with flavor!

For more tips and tricks on making the perfect Nuoc Cham sauce, check out this food guide.

Nutritional Facts for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Calories

A hearty serving of Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken contains approximately 540 calories. This makes it a satisfying meal that balances flavors and energy.

Protein

This dish is packed with protein, offering about 39.9 grams per serving. It's a great option for those looking to fuel their day with a protein-rich meal.

Sodium

It’s good to note that the dish contains around 1963 mg of sodium. While this does contribute to its savory flavor, you might consider reducing fish sauce or soy sauce if you're watching your sodium intake.

For more on healthy eating, check out resources like ChooseMyPlate.gov for balanced dietary guidelines.

FAQs about Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

What is lemongrass and how do I prepare it?

Lemongrass is a fragrant herb with a distinctive flavor, commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine. To prepare it, peel off the tough outer layers to reveal the softer white part at the base. You'll want to bruise the stalk by gently hitting it with the back of a knife—this releases its wonderful fragrant oils. Make sure to keep the pieces large enough to remove easily later, as finely chopping it can make it hard to eat.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor. Just keep the marinated chicken in the fridge to allow it to soak up all those delicious flavors. You can also make the Nuoc Cham sauce ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers from your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken separately from the noodles and veggies to maintain freshness. Just reheat and enjoy!

For tips on how to make your own homemade lemongrass paste, check out this culinary guide.

Conclusion on Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Why you’ll love making this dish at home

Creating Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken at home is not just satisfying—it's a delightful culinary adventure! With the aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, you'll find yourself excited for meal prep. Plus, it’s customizable for your palate. Gather your friends or family and enjoy a fun, interactive dining experience together!