Laotian Grilled Chicken Ping Gai

Name: Laotian Grilled Chicken Ping Gai
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Laotian
Ingredients: 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 stalks lemongrass (finely chopped); 3 tablespoons fish sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1.5 kg chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)

55 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savour the authentic flavours of Laos with this succulent grilled chicken recipe, perfect for summer BBQs.

Prep

20 min

Cook

25 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Laotian grilled chicken, or Ping Gai, is a delightful dish known for its aromatic flavour and tender texture. It is a staple in Laotian cuisine, often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations. This version of Ping Gai combines a harmonious blend of garlic, lemongrass, and fish sauce, creating a marinade that infuses the chicken with an irresistible taste. Perfect for those who love to grill, this recipe brings the essence of Laos to your backyard barbecue. The combination of traditional ingredients and grilling technique ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavourful with every bite. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is designed to guide you to success.

Instructions

Prepare the marinade

In a bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped lemongrass, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and black pepper. Stir until sugar is dissolved.

Pro tip: Use a blender for a smoother marinade.

Marinate the chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Pro tip: Overnight marination yields the best results.

Preheat the grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 190°C (375°F).

Pro tip: Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the chicken

Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for 10-12 minutes per side, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Rest the chicken

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting helps retain juices.

Serve

Slice the chicken and arrange on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve with sticky rice or salad.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavour.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Rest the chicken before serving for juicier results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Laotian grilled chicken ping gai?

Ping Gai is a Laotian grilled chicken dish marinated with ingredients like garlic, lemongrass, and fish sauce, then grilled to perfection.

How many calories are in Laotian grilled chicken?

A serving of Laotian grilled chicken ping gai has approximately 350 calories.

What should I serve with ping gai?

Ping gai is traditionally served with sticky rice and a side of fresh green papaya salad.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but for best results, marinate overnight.

What is the ideal grill temperature for ping gai?

Grill the chicken at a medium-high heat, around 190°C (375°F).

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Laotian Grilled Chicken Ping Gai with sticky rice or a fresh green papaya salad for a complete meal that captures the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine. Pair with a cool, crisp beer or a refreshing iced tea to complement the rich flavours. For make-ahead convenience, marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days and are delicious when added to salads or wraps.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

32g

Protein

23g

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