How To Make Lemon Chicken Chinese – The Easy Way!
What To Know
- In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making lemon chicken, from marinating the chicken to frying it to making the lemon sauce.
- The sauce is cooked until thick and glossy, and the chicken is coated in the delicious sauce.
- Trussing is a method of tying the chicken with string or skewers to keep it in shape during cooking.
Lemon chicken is a beloved Chinese dish, known for its delicious and tangy flavor. If you’re looking to learn how to make lemon chicken, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making lemon chicken, from marinating the chicken to frying it to making the lemon sauce. We’ll also provide tips and tricks for making the best lemon chicken possible. So, let’s get started!
How To Make Lemon Chicken Chinese
Lemon chicken, a popular Chinese dish, is a tangy, sweet and savory stir-fry dish made with chicken, lemon, and soy sauce. The sauce is cooked until thick and glossy, and the chicken is coated in the delicious sauce.
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1/4 cup cornstarch
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1/4 cup cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, ginger, garlic powder, and pepper.
4. Return the skillet to the heat and pour in the sauce mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook, stirring constantly, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is thick and glossy, about 2 minutes.
6. Serve the lemon chicken over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired.
Note: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts, if desired.
What Are The Key Ingredients Needed To Make Lemon Chicken Chinese?
- Chicken breast
- Lemon juice
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Green onions
- Salt and pepper
How Do You Prepare The Chicken For Cooking?
Preparing chicken for cooking is an essential step in ensuring that your dish is flavorful and juicy. There are several different ways to prepare chicken, including brining, marinating, and trussing.
Brining is a method of soaking chicken in a saltwater solution before cooking. This helps to tenderize the meat and adds flavor. Marinating involves soaking the chicken in a flavorful liquid, such as olive oil, lemon juice, or soy sauce, before cooking. Trussing is a method of tying the chicken with string or skewers to keep it in shape during cooking.
Before cooking, it is important to thoroughly wash the chicken. This will help to remove any dirt or bacteria that may be present. It is also important to trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken.
Cooking chicken properly is also important. Overcooking chicken can make it dry and tough. To avoid this, it is important to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overall, preparing chicken for cooking is an essential step in ensuring that your dish is flavorful and juicy. By following these steps, you can ensure that your chicken is cooked to perfection.
Can You Use Any Cut Of Chicken For This Dish?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can use any cut of chicken you prefer or have on hand. Here are a few tips to consider when choosing your cut:
1. Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: These dark meat cuts are juicy and flavorful. The skin adds extra crispy goodness.
2. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: If you prefer white meat, these cuts are lean and mild in flavor. They cook quickly and evenly.
3. Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Drumsticks: Another dark meat option, drumsticks are affordable, easy to eat, and loved by kids.
4. Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Wings: Ideal for parties or game day, chicken wings are finger-licking good. Toss them in your favorite sauce or dry rub.
5. Chicken Thighs or Breasts with the Skin Removed: If you’re watching your fat intake, opt for skinless chicken. It tastes just as delicious with less fat.
Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken cut.
What Is The Best Way To Marinate The Chicken Before Cooking?
Marinating the chicken before cooking it is a great way to add extra flavor and keep it moist. There are several ways to marinate chicken, but the best way to do it is to place the chicken in a resealable bag or container, add your favorite marinade, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Some good marinades to try include a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, or a barbecue sauce. You can also use store-bought marinades, but be sure to read the labels and choose one that is low in sodium and sugar.
How Do You Cook The Chicken To Ensure It Is Tender And Juicy?
To cook chicken so that it is tender and juicy, it is important to use the right cooking method and pay attention to the details. Here are a few tips for cooking chicken so that it is moist and flavorful:
1. Choose the right cut of chicken: Different cuts of chicken have different textures and cooking times. For example, chicken breasts tend to dry out quickly, while chicken thighs and drumsticks stay moist and juicy.
2. Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken before cooking can help to add flavor and moisture. You can use a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, or you can use a store-bought marinade.
3. Cook the chicken at the right temperature: Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
4. Cook the chicken for the right amount of time: Overcooking chicken can make it dry and tough. Cook chicken until it is just cooked through, but not overcooked.
5. Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the chicken moist and juicy.
By following these tips, you can cook chicken that is tender and juicy every time.
Takeaways
Satisfy your craving for Chinese takeout with a bowl of homemade lemon chicken. This zesty dish is perfect for any occasion and can be customized to fit your taste buds. In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on your table. So why wait? Try your hand at making lemon chicken tonight!