Lemongrass Chickenand Coconut Rice

1. Place the lemongrass stalks on a cutting board and bash them with the back of a knife until they become tender.

2. Slice the softened lemongrass, Thai basil, red chillis, ginger knob, and spring onion stalks into fine pieces.

3. Transfer the sliced aromatics to a food processor, add fish sauce, lemon juice, sesame oil, MSG, salt, and pepper, then pulse until the mixture forms a uniform, tiny‑piece paste.

4. Put the chicken thigh fillets in a large bowl, pour the prepared marinade over them, and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

5. Pre‑heat the air‑fryer to 350°F (350°F). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and air‑fry for 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.

6. While the chicken cooks, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.

7. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and the refilled boiling water (use the same volume as the coconut milk). Add the bay leaves, bring to a boil over medium‑high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.

8. After 10 minutes, turn off the heat but keep the lid on; let the rice steam in the covered pot for an additional 10 minutes.

9. Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the Chinese broccoli, sugar snap peas, chopped chillies, and sliced ginger; stir‑fry quickly for about 1 minute until bright‑green and crisp‑tender.

10. Add the remaining half of the marinade (or a fresh quick‑mix of lemon juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt) to the vegetables and stir‑fry for another minute to coat.

11. Slice the cooked chicken thighs into bite‑size strips.

12. To serve, fluff the coconut jasmine rice onto plates, top with the stir‑fried vegetables, and arrange the chicken strips on top.

13. Garnish with extra Thai basil leaves and a drizzle of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.