Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam! This grilled Vietnamese style chicken recipe is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, these chicken breasts will have your family and friends begging for seconds, wondering how you became such a cooking maestro overnight.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of minced ginger, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Place the 4 chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours if time permits.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing. For a gas grill, allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes.
- While the grill is heating, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to avoid cross-contamination.
- Once the grill is hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill grates. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing for good grill marks to form.
- After 6-7 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over and continue to grill for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing its flavor and tenderness.
- After resting, slice the chicken breasts against the grain into thin strips for serving. Arrange the sliced chicken on a platter or individual plates.
- Garnish the grilled chicken with fresh herbs of your choice, such as cilantro, mint, or basil, to add a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve the grilled Vietnamese style chicken breasts warm, accompanied by steamed rice or a fresh salad if desired. Enjoy your delicious and aromatic dish!
Tips
- Marinate Wisely: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, but aim for 2 hours if possible. The longer the marination, the more intense the flavor profile.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees both safety and juiciness.
- Grill Management: Avoid constantly flipping the chicken. Let it develop beautiful grill marks by cooking each side undisturbed for 6-7 minutes.
- Resting Matters: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Don't skip the garnish! Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or basil add a bright, authentic Vietnamese touch to the dish.
- Serve Smart: Slice the chicken against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness and easier eating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
