Zesty Grilled Lemongrass Chicken That’ll Wow Your Guests

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

When the sun begins to set and the air fills with the scent of warm summer nights, I crave something exciting to throw on the grill. Enter my Grilled Lemongrass Chicken a dish that perfectly captures the vibrant essence of Vietnamese cuisine. This flavor-packed chicken is more than just a meal; it s a culinary escape that transports you to bustling street markets, where the aroma of grilled goodness dances in the air. The marinade, rich with fresh lemongrass, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, elevates this dish from simply delicious to absolutely unforgettable.

What s even better? This recipe is ridiculously simple and perfect for those looking to inspire friends and family with a show-stopping dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With a juicy, charred exterior and a delightful drizzle of sriracha-brown sugar sauce, each bite bursts with flavor that s sure to impress. So, grab your grill and let s dive into this aromatic adventure that combines ease with exotic flair!

Why is Grilled Lemongrass Chicken a must-try?

Bold flavors: This dish captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine, combining unique lemongrass aroma with a sweet and savory glaze.

Effortless preparation: You ll be surprised by how easily you can whip this up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Versatile servings: Pair it with jasmine rice or a light salad for a balanced meal, or enjoy it as a tasty centerpiece at your next barbecue.

Crowd-pleasing appeal: Your guests will be begging for the recipe after their first bite, making this an unforgettable addition to any gathering.

Healthy choice: With fresh ingredients and lean protein, this grilled chicken is a nutritious option that doesn t compromise on flavor.

Time-saving: Spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones, as this dish comes together in no time!

Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
Whole Chicken (5-pound) Spatchcock for even cooking and enhanced grilling.
Kosher Salt (1 tbsp) Essential for enhancing overall flavor.

For the Marinade
Fresh Ginger (2 tbsp, peeled and chopped) Adds warmth and depth to your grilled lemongrass chicken.
Garlic (6 cloves) Provides aromatic richness; adjust based on your taste preference.
Lemongrass (1 5-inch piece, tough outer layers removed, roughly chopped) Offers a lemony, peppery scent that s vital to this dish; fresh is best.
Honey (2 tbsp) Brings natural sweetness; substitute with agave for a vegan option.
Neutral Oil ( ¼ cup, plus more for brushing) Helps with the lemongrass paste and prevents the chicken from sticking; can use avocado oil instead.
Brown Sugar ( ¼ cup, packed) Adds a caramelized flavor, enhancing the sweetness in the sauce; coconut sugar works too.
Soy Sauce or Tamari ( ¼ cup) Provides umami richness; opt for tamari to keep it gluten-free.
Rice Vinegar (2 tbsp) Balances out the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
Sriracha (1 tsp) Introduces heat; adjust to your heat preference.
Sesame Oil ( ½ tsp) Adds depth and richness to the marinade.

For the Scallion Oil
Minced Scallions (1 bunch) Enhances freshness and color in the sauce.
Fish Sauce (1 tbsp) Adds complexity and umami; omit for a vegetarian option.

This flavorful mix comes together to create the unforgettable taste of grilled lemongrass chicken that will surely elevate your dining experience!

How to Make Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

1. Preheat Grill: Begin by heating your grill to medium-high. This ensures a perfect sear on your chicken, creating that irresistible char.

2. Prepare Lemongrass Paste: In a food processor, blend ginger, garlic, lemongrass, honey, oil, and salt until smooth. This fragrant paste will coat the chicken, infusing it with zesty flavors.

3. Spatchcock Chicken: Pat your chicken dry and carefully spatchcock it by removing the backbone. Generously coat it with the prepared lemongrass paste to ensure every bite is flavorful.

4. Grill Chicken: Place the chicken breast side up on the grill. Grill for about 5 minutes until it s beautifully charred, then reduce the heat to low and flip. Cover and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F, approximately 45 minutes.

5. Make Sauces: In a saucepan, simmer brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, sriracha, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic for the sriracha-brown sugar sauce. For the scallion oil, whisk together scallions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, fish sauce, and oil until well combined.

6. Rest and Serve: Let the grilled chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Drizzle with the prepared sauces or serve them on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added layer of freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Variations

Get ready to make this delightful dish even more exciting with these fun twists and alternatives!

• Thighs or Drumsticks: Substitute the whole chicken for chicken thighs or drumsticks for an extra juicy bite that s full of flavor.

• Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian option, marinate firm tofu in the lemongrass paste and grill until charred for a delicious alternative.

• Portobello Mushrooms: Swap the chicken for large portobello mushrooms, allowing each bite to soak up that scrumptious lemongrass marinade.

• Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one lime or orange to the marinade for a bright, citrusy twist that complements the lemongrass beautifully.

• Sweet Heat: Sprinkle in some chili flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the marinade for those who crave an extra kick.

• Herb Infusion: Enhance the marinade with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for an aromatic punch that elevates the flavor profile.

• Pineapple Addition: Incorporate diced pineapple into the marinade for a sweet contrast that balances the savory notes of the chicken.

• Coconut Cream Sauce: Rather than serving with sauces, create a creamy coconut sauce by simmering coconut milk with garlic and ginger for dipping.

Explore these variations to make your Grilled Lemongrass Chicken truly unique, reflecting your personal taste and preferences!

Expert Tips for Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

Spatchcock Technique: Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to spatchcock the chicken effectively, ensuring even cooking and optimum flavor absorption.

Oil the Grill: Always oil the grill grates before cooking; this helps prevent sticking and ensures a clean release, particularly important for grilled lemongrass chicken.

Monitor Temperature: Invest in a good meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165 °F; this guarantees food safety and juicy results.

Avoid Dryness: If grilling over charcoal, move the chicken away from direct heat if it starts to dry out, preserving moisture while still achieving that mouthwatering char.

Serve with Freshness: Pair your grilled chicken with a side of cucumber salad or jasmine rice to balance the rich flavors, enhancing your dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These flavorful Grilled Lemongrass Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the lemongrass and garlic to infuse their delightful flavors into the meat. Simply prepare the lemongrass paste and coat the spatchcocked chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The scallion oil and sriracha-brown sugar sauce can also be made ahead store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to cook, just preheat the grill, place the chicken on it, and follow the grilling instructions for a meal that s just as delicious as when freshly prepared!

Storage Tips for Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves the flavors and keeps the chicken tender.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To maintain that amazing crispy exterior, reheat in the oven at 350 °F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy your Grilled Lemongrass Chicken warm and delicious!

What to Serve with Grilled Lemongrass Chicken?

Make your dining experience even more flavorful by pairing this aromatic dish with complementary sides that elevate each bite.

• Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice soaks up the savory marinade, providing a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken.

• Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad adds a cool crunch that balances the dish s heat, making each mouthful even more satisfying.

• Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred bell peppers and zucchini bring a smoky flavor and additional texture, creating a colorful and healthful side.

• Avocado Wedge: Creamy avocado slices add richness that counteracts the spiciness, creating a delightful balance of textures.

• Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: This tangy Vietnamese sauce adds a burst of flavor with its fruity notes and mild heat, perfectly elevating each bite of chicken.

• Thai Iced Tea: This sweet and robust drink offers a beautiful contrast to the savory flavors, making it a perfect pairing to cool on warm summer nights.

• Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this smooth and sweet dish brings an exotic finish to your meal, with its creamy coconut milk complementing the zesty chicken wonderfully.

Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best lemongrass?
Absolutely! When selecting lemongrass, look for firm, fresh stalks with a pale green color and no dark spots. The outer layers should be smooth and firm, as wilted or dry stalks may indicate age. Fresh lemongrass has a strong lemony scent, which is a good indicator of quality.

How should I store leftover grilled lemongrass chicken?
Very good question! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the chicken s juiciness, make sure the container is well-sealed. You could also layer the chicken with some of the leftover marinade, which adds moisture during storage.

Can I freeze grilled lemongrass chicken? What s the best way to do it?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the grilled lemongrass chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This will help prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my chicken isn t grilling evenly?
If you notice uneven grilling, it might be due to hot spots on your grill. Make sure to rotate the chicken at least once during cooking for an even char. Additionally, you might want to adjust the heat to ensure that parts of the chicken aren t cooking too quickly. Using a meat thermometer is key; aim for an internal temperature of 165 °F for optimal doneness.

Is this grilled lemongrass chicken suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Of course! Just choose gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for the marinade. This will keep the dish safe for those on a gluten-free diet while still delivering that delicious umami flavor. Also, check the labels on any other sauces or ingredients to ensure they re gluten-free as well.

Can I use a different protein or make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! If you re looking to switch things up, using chicken thighs or drumsticks can yield even juicier results. For a vegetarian version, I often marinate firm tofu or portobello mushrooms in the same lemongrass mixture. Grill them until they get a nice char, and you ll have a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy!