What To Know
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Serve the lemon chicken with a side of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, this recipe is sure to please.
Lemon chicken is a classic Asian dish that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the savory richness of chicken. This easy-to-make recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a popular choice for both home cooks and restaurant-goers alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 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 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, lemon zest, garlic, and ginger.
4. Add the sauce to the skillet with the chicken and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in the green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Variations:
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you don’t have lemon zest, you can use 1 teaspoon of lemon extract.
- You can also add other vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.
- For a healthier version, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
Tips:
- To make sure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out.
- Serve the lemon chicken with a side of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Lemon chicken is a great main course for a weeknight dinner.
- It can also be served as an appetizer or snack.
- Leftover lemon chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information:
- One serving of lemon chicken (1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
The Perfect Pairing:
- Lemon chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including:
- Steamed rice
- Noodles
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Salads
A Culinary Journey:
Lemon chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, this recipe is sure to please. So next time you’re in the mood for something tangy and flavorful, give this lemon chicken recipe a try.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: What can I use instead of soy sauce?
A: If you don’t have soy sauce, you can use tamari or coconut aminos.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make lemon chicken ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and sauce according to the recipe, then let it cool completely. Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
