Authentic Vietnamese Caramelized Lemongrass Chicken (Ga Kho Xa) Recipe

Ingredients

1kg chicken thighs, skin on and bone in
2 stalks of lemongrass, crushed and finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
2 shallots, finely chopped
1 red chili pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup coconut soda or coconut water
Handful of fresh cilantro for garnish

Steps and instructions

Start by cleaning the chicken thighs, pat them dry and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped lemongrass, garlic, shallots, and red chili pepper. This will be your marinade.
Add the fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper to the marinade. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for the flavors to fully infuse.
After marinating, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs, skin side down, and cook until the skin turns golden brown.
Flip the chicken thighs and add the coconut soda or coconut water to the pan. Cover and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tools for making

Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the chicken, lemongrass, garlic, shallots, and chili pepper.
Mixing bowl - A large bowl for combining the marinade ingredients and coating the chicken.
Pan - A large pan for cooking the chicken thighs.
Spatula or tongs - To flip and handle the chicken while cooking.
Cover or lid - To cover the pan while simmering the chicken.
Serving dish - A dish for presenting the cooked chicken.

Recipe variations

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of bone-in for a quicker cooking time.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the dish for added flavor and texture.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili pepper or add some dried chili flakes.
Replace chicken with pork or beef for a different protein option.
Make it vegetarian by using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Marinate the tofu/tempeh in the same marinade and follow the cooking instructions accordingly.
Add a splash of lime juice or zest to the marinade for a tangy twist.
For a healthier version, grill the marinated chicken instead of pan-frying it.
Experiment with different herbs like Thai basil or mint for an aromatic variation.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of fish sauce and oyster sauce.
For a sweeter flavor, replace the sugar with honey or palm sugar.

Recipe overview

Experience the delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors from Vietnam with our recipe for Ga Kho Xa, a popular lemongrass chicken dish. This recipe calls for chicken thighs which are marinated in a vibrant mix of lemongrass, garlic, shallots, and chili pepper, then simmered to perfection in a rich sauce of coconut soda or water. The result is a dish with tender chicken coated in a caramelized sauce that's packed full of umami goodness. While Ga Kho Xa may sound exotic, it's actually quite easy to prepare and perfect for a unique weeknight dinner. With its robust and aromatic flavors, this lemongrass chicken is sure to be a hit at your dining table. Serve it with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal that will transport your taste buds straight to Vietnam.

Common questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be drier compared to thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Can I substitute lemongrass with something else? Lemongrass adds a unique citrusy flavor to the dish, but if you cannot find it, you can use lemon zest as a substitute. Use the zest of one lemon for every stalk of lemongrass.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Marinate the tofu or tempeh in the same marinade mixture and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this dish less spicy? If you prefer less heat, you can reduce or omit the amount of red chili pepper in the marinade. You can also remove the seeds of the chili pepper before chopping to lessen the spiciness.
What can I serve with Ga Kho Xa? Ga Kho Xa pairs well with steamed rice or rice noodles. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the flavors.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - For chopping and preparing ingredients.
Knife - To finely chop lemongrass, garlic, shallots, and red chili pepper.
Mixing bowl - To combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken.
Large pan - For cooking the chicken thighs and simmering the sauce.
Spatula - To flip the chicken thighs while cooking.
Cover - To cover the pan while simmering the chicken.
Serving dish - To present and serve the finished Ga Kho Xa.

Origin stories

Ga Kho Xa, or Lemongrass Chicken, is a beloved dish that originates from Vietnam. Interestingly, in traditional Vietnamese medicine, lemongrass is highly regarded for its ability to aid digestion, reduce fever, and improve circulation. Hence, it's a common ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes, not only for its unique citrusy aroma but also for the wellness benefits it brings. This aromatic herb, combined with other fundamental elements of Vietnamese cuisine such as fish sauce, gives Ga Kho Xa its distinctive, flavorful punch, making it a staple in every Vietnamese family's dinner table.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.