What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Instead of cooking the chicken in a skillet, you can bake it in the oven.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of lemon and chicken with this tantalizing lemon chicken recipe with sauce. This dish combines the tangy zest of lemons with tender chicken, creating a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s embark on a zesty adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (from about 3 lemons)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
- Rinse the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, combine the lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, lemon zest, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the prepared lemon sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Making the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet while stirring constantly.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Serving the Dish:
- Transfer the chicken and sauce to a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
Tips for a Perfect Lemon Chicken:
- Choosing the Right Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a tender and juicy dish.
- Marinating the Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the lemon sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with flavor and make it even more delicious.
- Cooking the Chicken Properly: Cook the chicken until it is cooked through but not overcooked. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
- Balancing the Sauce: Adjust the amount of lemon juice, soy sauce, and honey to your taste preferences. You can add more or less of each ingredient to create a sauce that is perfectly balanced.
- Garnish for Presentation: Garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Chicken with Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers to the skillet along with the chicken.
- Baked Lemon Chicken: Instead of cooking the chicken in a skillet, you can bake it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Storage and Leftovers:
- Storing Leftovers: Store leftover lemon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Leftovers: To reheat leftovers, place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated.
“The Final Zest”:
This lemon chicken recipe with sauce is a delightful combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. The tender chicken, infused with the vibrant zest of lemons, creates a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply looking for a flavorful weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in this recipe. They will take slightly longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What can I serve with lemon chicken?
A: Lemon chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as steamed rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, mix together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet while stirring constantly. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
