Vietnamese Baked Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vietnamese Baked Chicken brings together the delicious flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with the convenience of baking. The marinade is packed with umami from fish sauce, sweetness from honey, and fragrant notes from garlic and lemongrass. The baking process allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors while becoming perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with vibrant flavors, and perfect for a family dinner, weeknight meal, or special occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks (or a whole chicken, cut into pieces)

• 3 tablespoons fish sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 stalk lemongrass, finely minced (or 1 teaspoon lemongrass paste)

• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro or basil (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, minced lemongrass, five-spice powder (if using), lime juice, and sugar.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. The marinade should be well-balanced with a slight sweetness, savory depth, and a fragrant aroma from the lemongrass and garlic.

2. Marinate the chicken:

• Place the chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or whole chicken parts) into the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. If marinating overnight, the flavors will be even more intense.

3. Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.

4. Bake the chicken:

• Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up. Make sure the chicken is spread out in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

• Bake the chicken for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If you like your skin extra crispy, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

5. Serve:

• Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

• Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or basil, and serve with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes

• Total Time: 40-50 minutes

Variations

• Use different cuts of chicken: You can use chicken breasts, wings, or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the chicken pieces.

• Add spice: If you like a bit of heat, add sliced fresh chilies or a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

• Grilled version: For a smoky flavor, you can also grill the marinated chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked and crispy on the outside.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Vietnamese Baked Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the skin may not remain as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken breasts for this recipe?

While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks are ideal for this recipe because they stay moist and flavorful during baking, you can use boneless chicken breasts. Just be mindful that boneless chicken cooks faster, so reduce the cooking time to 20-25 minutes.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating and baking. Cooking frozen chicken directly will affect the texture and may lead to uneven cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply bake it as instructed. You can also cook the chicken ahead of time and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes.

What can I serve with Vietnamese Baked Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, sautéed greens, or a simple cucumber salad. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Conclusion

Vietnamese Baked Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the authentic tastes of Vietnam to your dinner table. With its aromatic marinade, crispy skin, and tender meat, this chicken is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of fresh herbs. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the bold flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in the comfort of your own home!

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