Gà xào sả ớt, or stir-fried chicken with lemongrass and chili, is a beloved dish in Vietnamese cuisine that captures the essence of bold flavors and vibrant aromas. This dish combines tender chicken with the zesty heat of fresh chilies and the fragrant citrus notes of lemongrass, creating a mouthwatering balance of spice, freshness, and savory goodness. Gà xào sả ớt is often enjoyed as a main course in Vietnamese homes, served with steamed rice, or as a part of a larger meal during family gatherings and celebrations.

In this article, we will explore the origins of this dish, the ingredients that make it a standout in Vietnamese cuisine, its health benefits, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this flavorful dish in your own kitchen. Whether you are an experienced cook or just beginning to explore Vietnamese food, Gà xào sả ớt is a must-try dish that brings the heat and fragrance of Southeast Asia right to your table.

The Origins of Gà Xào Sả Ớt

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its harmonious balance of flavors, blending fresh herbs, bold spices, and savory ingredients in a way that is both satisfying and refreshing. Gà xào sả ớt is no exception, featuring two key ingredients—lemongrass and chili—that are staples in many Vietnamese dishes.

Lemongrass (sả in Vietnamese) is a fragrant herb commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking. Known for its citrusy, slightly floral aroma, lemongrass imparts a refreshing taste to savory dishes, soups, and stews. It is widely used in Vietnamese, Thai, and Malaysian cuisine, particularly in recipes that highlight its bright and aromatic qualities.

Chili (ớt in Vietnamese) is another essential ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes. The heat of fresh chilies adds a vibrant kick to food, making it both spicy and flavorful. The balance of spiciness and acidity in chili peppers enhances the overall taste profile of a dish, which is why it is so prevalent in Vietnamese cooking.

The combination of lemongrass and chili has long been used in various regional dishes in Vietnam. Gà xào sả ớt is a stir-fried chicken dish that brings these two ingredients together to create a tantalizing and spicy dish that excites the palate. It is typically enjoyed in both urban and rural Vietnamese households, and variations of the dish can be found across the country, each with its own regional twist.

Key Ingredients in Gà Xào Sả Ớt

To prepare Gà xào sả ớt, you will need a few key ingredients that bring together the bold flavors of lemongrass, chili, and chicken. These ingredients are essential to the dish’s signature taste, and many of them are readily available in most Asian grocery stores.

1. Chicken

The star ingredient of Gà xào sả ớt is, of course, the chicken. It is best to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for this dish. Chicken thighs are particularly popular due to their tender, juicy texture and rich flavor. The chicken is usually cut into bite-sized pieces, making it easier to stir-fry and ensuring even cooking.

2. Lemongrass (Sả)

Lemongrass is the aromatic herb that gives Gà xào sả ớt its signature fragrance. It has a unique citrus flavor with hints of ginger and lemon, making it the perfect complement to the chicken. To prepare lemongrass for cooking, the tough outer layers are removed, and the stalks are finely chopped or bruised to release their oils.

3. Fresh Red Chilies (Ớt)

Chilies add the fiery heat to Gà xào sả ớt. Fresh red chilies are commonly used in the dish, as they provide a bright color and intense spiciness. The number of chilies used can be adjusted to your preferred spice level, but the dish is traditionally known for its bold heat.

4. Garlic

Garlic is a common ingredient in Vietnamese cooking, providing depth and savory richness to many dishes. In Gà xào sả ớt, garlic is sautéed with lemongrass and chilies to create the base of the stir-fry and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

5. Fish Sauce (Nước Mắm)

Fish sauce is a cornerstone of Vietnamese cuisine and adds umami and saltiness to many dishes. It is an essential seasoning in Gà xào sả ớt, contributing to the savory depth of flavor in the stir-fry. Fish sauce is made from fermented fish, and it provides a unique, complex taste that cannot be replicated with other ingredients.

6. Sugar

A small amount of sugar is often added to balance the spiciness of the chilies and the saltiness of the fish sauce. The sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile, creating a harmonious balance between the spicy, savory, and sweet elements of the dish.

7. Onion

Onions are frequently included in stir-fried dishes to add sweetness and texture. In Gà xào sả ớt, onions are typically sliced thinly and sautéed with the lemongrass and chilies, infusing the dish with additional flavor.

8. Fresh Herbs (Optional)

Fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil are often added as a garnish, giving the dish a burst of freshness. These herbs also complement the bold flavors of the lemongrass and chilies, providing an aromatic finish to the dish.

Health Benefits of Gà Xào Sả Ớt

Gà xào sả ớt is not only a flavorful dish but also packed with health benefits. The ingredients used in this dish are rich in essential nutrients and have been used for their medicinal properties in traditional remedies. Here are some of the health benefits of the key ingredients in Gà xào sả ớt:

1. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is known for its natural detoxifying properties. It is a rich source of antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. Lemongrass is also thought to aid in digestion, promote healthy skin, and support weight loss due to its diuretic effects.

2. Chilies

Chilies, particularly those containing capsaicin, have numerous health benefits. Capsaicin is known to boost metabolism, improve circulation, and promote fat burning. Chilies can also help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

3. Garlic

Garlic is renowned for its immune-boosting properties. It has been shown to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Garlic is also a natural antibacterial and antiviral agent, making it effective in fighting infections and promoting overall health.

4. Chicken

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and maintaining a healthy immune system. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals like niacin, phosphorus, and vitamin B6, all of which contribute to a balanced diet.

5. Fish Sauce

Fish sauce is a good source of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. It also provides amino acids, which support muscle function and help maintain a healthy metabolism.

How to Make Gà Xào Sả Ớt (Stir-Fried Chicken with Lemongrass and Chili)

Now that we have explored the ingredients and health benefits of Gà xào sả ớt, it’s time to dive into the recipe. Making this dish is straightforward, and it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
• 4-5 red chilies, sliced (adjust to your desired spice level)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Clean and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Peel and finely chop the lemongrass, ensuring that you remove the tough outer layers and use only the tender inner stalk.
• Slice the red chilies and mince the garlic.
• Thinly slice the onion.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the chicken to coat evenly and allow it to marinate for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped lemongrass, and sliced chilies. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden brown.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

• Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Add the Onion

• Once the chicken is nearly cooked, add the thinly sliced onion to the skillet. Continue stir-frying for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.

**Step

6: Adjust Seasoning**

• Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more fish sauce for saltiness, sugar for sweetness, or extra chili for heat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Remove the dish from the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil if desired. Serve the Gà xào sả ớt hot with steamed rice.

Conclusion

Gà xào sả ớt is a delectable Vietnamese stir-fried dish that combines the bold flavors of lemongrass, chili, and chicken in a simple yet satisfying way. Its aromatic and spicy profile makes it a favorite among those who love flavorful and exciting meals. With its health benefits and ease of preparation, Gà xào sả ớt is a dish that can easily be incorporated into your weekly meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy this delicious and aromatic dish that brings the tastes of Vietnam to your table.