Authentic Vietnamese Lemongrass Chili Chicken (Com Ga Xao Sa Ot) Recipe

Ingredients

2 boneless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped
2 red chili peppers, finely chopped
2 teaspoons of sugar
1 tablespoon of fish sauce
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1 onion, thinly sliced
2 green onions, chopped
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Steamed jasmine rice for serving

Steps and instructions

Cut the chicken breasts into thin slices.
Marinate the chicken with garlic, lemongrass, chili peppers, sugar, fish sauce, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry until it's cooked through and golden brown.
Add the sliced onion to the pan and continue to stir-fry until it's softened.
Add the chopped green onions and stir-fry for another minute.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve the Com Ga Xao Sa Ot with steamed jasmine rice.

Tools for making

Cutting board - To safely and effectively cut the chicken breasts into thin slices.
Knife - A sharp knife is necessary for slicing the chicken and chopping the garlic, lemongrass, chili peppers, onion, and green onions.
Pan - A non-stick frying pan or skillet for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
Spatula - To flip and stir the chicken while cooking.
Measuring spoons - For accurately measuring ingredients like sugar, fish sauce, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper.
Grater - If using fresh turmeric, a grater is needed to grate the turmeric root.
Plate or bowl - To marinate the chicken before cooking.
Tongs - Optional, but useful for flipping the chicken and vegetables while stir-frying.
Garnish - Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing the dish before serving.

Recipe variations

Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a vegetarian or vegan version.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color and crunch.
Replace the chicken with shrimp or beef for a different protein option.
Experiment with different types of chili peppers for varying levels of spiciness.
Add some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Include some crushed peanuts or cashews for extra texture and nuttiness.
Try using coconut milk instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor.
For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce for the fish sauce.
Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.
Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for additional garnish.

Recipe overview

"Com Ga Xao Sa Ot is a classic Vietnamese dish that combines the aromatic flavors of lemongrass and chili with succulent chicken. Simple yet flavorful, this stir-fry dish is a staple in many Vietnamese homes and now you can recreate it in your own kitchen. This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner as it's easy to prepare and cooks up in no time. The dish is typically served with steamed jasmine rice, allowing you to enjoy all the rich and savory flavors. Expect a beautiful blend of savory, sweet, and spicy notes with every bite. So let's get started and bring a taste of Vietnam to your table!"

Common questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.
Can I use ground turmeric instead of turmeric powder? Yes, you can use ground turmeric instead of turmeric powder. Use the same amount called for in the recipe.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Com Ga Xao Sa Ot by substituting the chicken with tofu or your favorite meat alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to enhance the flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness.
Can I make this dish spicier? If you prefer a spicier version, you can increase the amount of chili peppers or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the spiciness according to your taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - To safely and hygienically prepare the ingredients.
Knife - For slicing the chicken breasts and chopping the garlic, lemongrass, chili peppers, onion, and green onions.
Pan - To stir-fry the chicken and vegetables.
Spatula - For flipping and stirring the ingredients in the pan.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the sugar, fish sauce, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper.
Bowls - For marinating the chicken and holding the chopped ingredients.
Garnish tools - Such as tongs or tweezers, to neatly place the fresh coriander leaves on top of the dish.
Plate or bowl - For serving the Com Ga Xao Sa Ot.
Fork and spoon - For enjoying the dish.

Origin stories

Com Ga Xao Sa Ot is a classic Vietnamese dish that combines the flavors of lemongrass, chili, and other traditional ingredients. This dish has its roots in the heartland of Vietnam, where lemongrass grows abundantly. It was in the homes and the small local eateries of the Vietnamese countryside that this dish was born. The unique combination of tangy lemongrass and fiery chili peppers, along with the sweet and salty nuances of fish sauce and sugar, reflect the complexity and balance that are emblematic of Vietnamese cuisine. The use of fresh coriander as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also brings an extra layer of aroma and flavor, making this dish a stand out in the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culinary tradition.

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.