Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in lemongrass, cooking until fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes. Place chicken into the skillet. Cook and stir chicken until no longer pink in the center and skin is browned, about 10 minutes. Stir in water, fish sauce, and curry powder. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
Mix cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of curry sauce in a small bowl, until smooth. Stir cornstarch mixture into the skillet and simmer until sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro before serving.