What To Know
- For a healthier version, bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
- Serve the lemon chicken with a side of steamed asparagus or stir-fried green beans for a complete meal.
- To reheat, simply microwave the chicken for a few minutes or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat.
Craving a delectable and authentic Chinese dish without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this quick Chinese lemon chicken recipe! This dish combines the vibrant flavors of lemon, ginger, and garlic with tender chicken pieces, creating a tantalizing experience that will satisfy your taste buds. With its crispy coating and tangy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
1. 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
2. 1/2 cup cornstarch
3. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4. 1 teaspoon salt
5. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
6. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
7. 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
8. 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
9. 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
10. 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
11. 1/2 cup lemon juice
12. 1/4 cup soy sauce
13. 1/4 cup honey
14. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
15. 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
16. 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
17. 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Fry the Chicken:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
3. Make the Lemon Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the fried chicken to the skillet or wok.
- Pour the lemon sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the lemon chicken to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Tips for a Perfect Lemon Chicken:
- For a crispier coating, double-coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture before frying.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired spice level.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
- For a healthier version, bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
Variations:
- Try using different types of citrus fruits, such as oranges or limes, for a unique flavor twist.
- Add some chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli, to the sauce for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Serve the lemon chicken with a side of steamed asparagus or stir-fried green beans for a complete meal.
Substitutions:
- If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour instead.
- If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and honey to your taste preferences.
Leftovers:
- Leftover lemon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave the chicken for a few minutes or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat.
“Not Just Another Lemon Chicken” – A Culinary Adventure:
This quick Chinese lemon chicken recipe is not just another ordinary dish; it’s a culinary adventure that tantalizes your taste buds with its vibrant flavors and crispy texture. The perfect balance of tangy lemon, savory soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness from the honey creates an irresistible harmony that will leave you craving more.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
2. What can I serve with lemon chicken?
Lemon chicken pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
3. How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through?
Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
