Golden Lemongrass Chicken Brothy Rice Recipe

If you’re craving something soul-satisfying and vibrant, the Golden Lemongrass Chicken Brothy Rice Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish combines tender, aromatic chicken infused with lemongrass and fresh spices in a savory, fragrant broth that perfectly soaks into fluffy jasmine rice. Every spoonful bursts with warmth and character, making it a comforting yet elegant meal that’s surprisingly simple to put together. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become one of your favorite weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the earthiness of turmeric to the fresh zing of lemongrass, these components come together beautifully to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

• 4 garlic cloves: Adds a fragrant base and gentle pungency to the broth.
• 3cm piece ginger, peeled and roughly chopped: Provides a warm, spicy kick and freshness.
• 3cm piece fresh turmeric, peeled and roughly chopped (or 1 tsp ground turmeric): Gives the rice its stunning golden hue and subtle earthy notes.
• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on: Tender, juicy protein that crisps up beautifully while simmering in the broth.
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil: Essential for browning the chicken and shallots evenly.
• 3 shallots, thinly sliced: Brings sweetness and depth when caramelized.
• 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised: Infuses the broth with a citrusy aroma and bright character.
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine: Adds complexity and a hint of sweetness.
• 2 tbsp Chinese light soy sauce: Contributes saltiness and umami without overpowering.
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce: Deepens the color and adds subtle sweetness.
• 1 tsp sugar: Balances savory flavors and brings out natural sweetness.
• 3 cups chicken stock: The heart of the broth, rich and flavorful.
• ¼ tsp white pepper: Gentle heat and subtle spice that doesn’t dominate the palate.
• 1 tbsp fish sauce, plus extra to taste: Adds authentic depth and savory complexity.
• Sea salt: To adjust seasoning to your liking.
• 4 cups cooked jasmine rice, to serve: Fluffy, fragrant base that soaks up all the goodness.
• Fresh herb topping: ¼ cup finely chopped coriander (leaves and stems), ¼ cup torn Thai basil leaves, 2 tbsp finely sliced mint leaves, 2 spring onions finely sliced, 2 tbsp fried shallots, and optional chilli oil for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.

How to Make Golden Lemongrass Chicken Brothy Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Start by bruising the lemongrass to release its essential oils and roughly chopping your garlic, ginger, and turmeric. These aromatics will form the fragrant backbone of your broth, creating a lively base that sings with every stir.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken and Shallots

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs lightly with sea salt and place them skin-side down until beautifully golden and crisp. Remove the chicken and sauté your thinly sliced shallots in the same pot. Browning the chicken and shallots adds rich caramelized flavor that deepens the broth.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Return the browned chicken to the pot along with garlic, ginger, turmeric, and bruised lemongrass. Pour in Shaoxing wine, Chinese light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, chicken stock, white pepper, and fish sauce. Give everything a gentle stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and all those vibrant flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the broth and shred or chop it as you prefer. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt or extra fish sauce if needed. Return the chicken to the pot to soak up the remaining flavors. When ready to serve, spoon the tantalizing broth and chicken over bowls of warm jasmine rice, then pile on that fresh herb topping and a drizzle of chili oil if you love a little heat.

How to Serve Golden Lemongrass Chicken Brothy Rice Recipe

Garnishes

The fresh herb topping is not just decoration but a vital flavor boost. Coriander, Thai basil, mint, spring onions, and crispy fried shallots bring brightness, refreshing contrast, and crunch that elevate each bite. If you like spice, a splash of chili oil brings an exciting punch without overpowering the dish’s delicate balance.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines as a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with simple steamed greens like bok choy or Chinese broccoli to add some vibrant greens and a hint of crisp texture. Light pickled vegetables can also be delightful companions, cutting through the richness while complementing the Southeast Asian flair.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Golden Lemongrass Chicken Brothy Rice Recipe in individual deep bowls topped with a soft-boiled egg or crunchy fried shallots piled high. Alternatively, transform leftovers into a hand-held wrap by wrapping the chicken and rice mix in rice paper with fresh herbs for a different but equally delicious experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken, broth, and rice together to help the rice absorb even more of the delicious broth overnight.

Freezing

Freeze the broth and chicken separately from the rice for best results. Broth with chicken will keep well for up to 2 months in tightly sealed containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the broth and chicken on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Warm the rice separately, then combine right before serving. Adding a splash of water or stock when reheating helps restore the broth’s lovely consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are preferred for their richness and tenderness, but chicken breast will also work if you prefer leaner meat—just be mindful not to overcook it, as it can dry out faster.

What if I don’t have fresh turmeric?

Ground turmeric is a fine substitute and will still give the broth a beautiful golden color and that subtle hint of earthiness essential to this recipe.

Is Shaoxing wine necessary?

While Shaoxing wine adds a lovely depth, you can substitute dry sherry or even omit it if needed. The dish will remain flavorful but slightly less complex.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

For a vegetarian version, swap chicken thighs for firm tofu or mushroom chunks and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Adjust seasonings accordingly, but you’ll still get that fragrant broth and comforting rice combo.

How spicy is the dish?

The Golden Lemongrass Chicken Brothy Rice Recipe itself is mildly spiced, with a gentle warmth from white pepper. Adding chili oil is optional and lets you control the heat level to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Lemongrass Chicken Brothy Rice Recipe is a beautiful balance of vibrant flavors, comforting textures, and vivid colors that will brighten up your dining table any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish promises warmth and plenty of smiles. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own delicious memories with it!

Print