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Lemongrass Roasted Chicken Breasts

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Lemongrass Roasted Chicken is an exquisite dish that blends the fragrant allure of Southeast Asian flavors with the comforting essence of a traditional roast, resulting in a culinary experience that tantalizes the senses and satisfies the appetite. The centerpiece of this dish is the skin-on, bone-in chicken breasts, meticulously chosen for their ability to remain moist and flavorful throughout the roasting process. This specific cut guarantees that each mouthful is not only succulent but also deeply imbued with the rich flavors emanating from the marinade and aromatic ingredients.

The journey of this dish commences with the marinade, a meticulously crafted concoction combining the delicate, citrusy, and slightly floral notes of finely minced lemongrass with the pungency of garlic, the umami depth of soy sauce, the tart vibrancy of fresh lemon and lime juices, the natural sweetness of honey, and the spicy warmth of ginger. Lemongrass sits at the heart of this marinade, imparting its quintessential flavor that is integral to many Southeast Asian recipes. The citrus juice further elevates this profile, adding a tangy zest that beautifully counterbalances the richness of the chicken. Honey and soy sauce create a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, while ginger introduces a subtle yet invigorating spice. This marinade doesn’t just flavor the chicken; it tenderizes it, ensuring each piece is moist and brimming with complex flavors.

During the marination process, which ideally spans overnight but at least 1 hour, the chicken thoroughly soaks up the myriad of flavors, setting the stage for a mouth-watering roast. The chicken, prepared skin-side up in a roasting tray, is accompanied by sweet, quartered onions and fragrant whole lemongrass stalks. These onions caramelize as they roast, contributing a depth of flavor and a gentle sweetness that creates a delightful contrast with the savory, umami-laden chicken. The additional lemongrass stalks, gently bruised to release their aromatic oils, infuse an extra layer of scent and taste to the dish.

Roasting the chicken results in a skin that is delectably crispy and golden, offering an irresistible texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tender meat underneath. This textural juxtaposition enhances the eating experience, providing a delightful crunch with every bite. This roasting method ensures the chicken remains juicy while achieving an alluringly bronzed exterior.

The magic of this dish unfolds by the reducing the marinade into a thick, lustrous sauce. This reduction intensifies the marinade’s flavors, creating a rich, glossy accompaniment that is artfully drizzled over the plated chicken and onions. This sauce not only augments the dish’s flavor profile but also adds a touch of sophistication to its presentation.

As a serving suggestion, Lemongrass Roasted Chicken pairs exceptionally well with Thyme Mashed Butternut Squash. This side dish, with its creamy texture and subtle herbaceous notes from the thyme, complements the zesty and aromatic flavors of the chicken. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the savory, complex notes of the chicken, creating a harmonious balance on the palate. The thyme’s earthiness also ties in well with the dish’s overall flavor profile, making each bite a delightful fusion of tastes and textures.

This dish is a celebration of culinary diversity, showcasing how a blend of simple ingredients can elevate a traditional roast chicken into an extraordinary meal. Lemongrass Roasted Chicken, served alongside Thyme Mashed Butternut Squash, offers a feast for the senses, combining the comforting with the exotic, and is sure to delight anyone looking for a meal that is both familiar and refreshingly new.

Beverage Pairing Suggestions:

Here are some beverage pairing suggestions that can complement the dish’s unique flavor profile:

  • Riesling Wine: A dry Riesling would be a fantastic match. Its natural acidity and fruity notes can complement the citrus and herbal elements in the chicken, while its slight sweetness balances the heat from the lemongrass and ginger.
  • Ginger Beer (Non-alcoholic or Alcoholic): The spicy kick of ginger beer echoes the ginger in the marinade, creating a harmonious pairing. Its effervescence and sharpness can also cut through the richness of the dish.
  • Sake: Choose a light and slightly fruity sake to complement the aromatic qualities of the lemongrass and lemon. The clean and subtle flavors of sake won’t overpower the dish but will enhance its Asian-inspired elements.
Lemongrass Roasted Chicken Breasts
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Lemongrass Roasted Chicken Breasts

5.0 from 1 vote
Course: MainsCuisine: AsianDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

1

hour 

15

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Total time

2

hours 

Lemongrass Roasted Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring tender chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemongrass, lemon, and spices, then roasted to perfection with sweet caramelized onions and a rich, glossy sauce reduction.

Ingredients

  • 4 skin-on chicken breasts

  • 2 large onions, quartered

  • 4 stalks of lemongrass, 2 minced and 2 halved

  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce

  • 1 lime, juiced

  • 1 lemon, juiced

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Directions

  • Prepare the Marinade:
    In a bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, lime juice, honey, ginger, ground black pepper, and extra virgin olive oil. Whisk well to blend.
  • Marinate the Chicken:
    Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, for the flavors to infuse.
  • Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  • Prepare Chicken and Onions:
    Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Arrange the chicken breasts, skin side up, in a roasting tray or baking dish. Arrange the quartered onions and the remaining 2 lemongrass stalks around the chicken. Slightly crush the lemongrass stalks to release more flavor.
  • Roast:
    Roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F) and the skin is golden and crispy. The onions and lemongrass should be tender and aromatic.

    Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven before serving.
  • Make the Sauce:
    In a saucepan, bring the remaining marinade to a simmer. Cook for 5-10 minutes, until it’s reduced and thickened to your liking.
  • Serve:
    Serve with the roasted onions and lemongrass. Drizzle the sauce on top or around the plate. Garnish with fresh herbs.

    This dish pairs well with a side dish like Thyme Mashed Butternut Squash.

I find cooking to be inspiring on many different levels. The [culinary] arts connect people, cultures, and generations. In many ways – pun intended – food fuels society forward. It’s so much more than just a literal means for survival. I’ve experienced the importance of food as nourishment for both the mind and body, and I’m pleased to share my positives experiences with you.

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