What To Know
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully glazed.
- For a crispier chicken, double-fry it by frying it once for 3-4 minutes, removing it from the oil, and then frying it again for another 2-3 minutes.
- Creating a perfect lemon chicken requires attention to detail and a balance of flavors.
Lemon chicken is a classic Chinese dish that tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant citrus flavors and tender chicken. This dish is a staple in Chinese restaurants worldwide and a favorite among many. If you’re looking to recreate this culinary masterpiece at home, follow our comprehensive guide below:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Fry the chicken: Add the chicken to the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, lemon zest, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Coat the chicken: Return the fried chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over it. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully glazed.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the chicken and serve immediately with rice or noodles.
Tips:
- For a crispier chicken, double-fry it by frying it once for 3-4 minutes, removing it from the oil, and then frying it again for another 2-3 minutes.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have ginger, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of ground ginger.
- Add more red pepper flakes to taste for a spicier dish.
- Serve the lemon chicken with steamed broccoli or asparagus for a balanced meal.
Variations:
- Orange Lemon Chicken: Replace the lemon juice with orange juice and add 1 tablespoon of grated orange zest.
- Honey Lemon Chicken: Increase the honey to 1/2 cup for a sweeter version.
- Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of Sriracha sauce to the sauce for a kick of heat.
The Art of the Perfect Lemon Chicken
Creating a perfect lemon chicken requires attention to detail and a balance of flavors. Here are some additional tips:
- Use high-quality chicken: The best lemon chicken starts with tender and juicy chicken breasts.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooking will make the chicken tough and dry.
- Balance the sauce: The sauce should be tangy, sweet, and slightly salty. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Garnish wisely: Green onions add a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.
Lemon Chicken: A Healthier Option
Compared to many other Chinese dishes, lemon chicken is a relatively healthy option. It’s low in fat and calories and packed with protein and vitamin C from the lemons.
The Joy of Homemade Lemon Chicken
Making lemon chicken at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your liking. It’s a rewarding experience that will impress your family and friends.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, but thaw the chicken completely before cooking.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
A: Add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out.
Q: Can I use a different type of citrus juice?
A: Yes, you can use orange juice, lime juice, or a combination of both.
Q: How can I make the chicken crispier?
A: Double-fry the chicken or increase the heat when frying.
Q: Can I bake this dish instead of frying it?
A: Yes, but the chicken will not be as crispy. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Q: What are good side dishes to serve with lemon chicken?
A: Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.
Q: How long will the leftovers keep?
A: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
