Imagine a dinner that bursts with vibrant flavors and takes your taste buds on a journey through Southeast Asia. Our Marinated Lemongrass Chicken recipe combines the zesty aroma of lemongrass with the tenderness of perfectly cooked chicken for a delightful culinary experience.
**Marinated Lemongrass Chicken**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 stalks of lemongrass
– 4 cloves of garlic
– 1 shallot
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Juice of 1 lime
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Lemongrass:** Peel off the tough outer layers of the lemongrass stalks. Trim the ends and finely chop the tender inner parts of the lemongrass.
2. **Make the Marinade:** In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped lemongrass, garlic, and shallot. Blend until a fine paste forms.
3. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Add the lemongrass paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, sesame oil, lime juice, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for the best flavor.
4. **Grill or Cook the Chicken:** Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat with a bit of oil until cooked through.
5. **Rest and Serve:** Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender result. Slice the chicken into strips or chunks, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy the aromatic and savory goodness of this Marinated Lemongrass Chicken recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The combination of lemongrass, garlic, and a touch of sweetness creates a unique and mouthwatering dish that will surely become a favorite at your table. Try it out, and let the flavors transport you to the enchanting streets of Southeast Asia.
