How to Make Delicious Asian Lemon Chicken at Home
If you're looking for a dish that's both flavorful and easy to make, Asian Lemon Chicken is a fantastic choice. This classic recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a tangy and savory lemon sauce, making it a favorite for family dinners or special occasions. In this guide, we'll show you how to make delicious Asian Lemon Chicken at home, using fresh ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients You'll Need
Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Asian Lemon Chicken:
Chicken breast (1 lb, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
Cornstarch (1/2 cup)
Eggs (2, beaten)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Lemon zest (1 tbsp)
Lemon juice (1/4 cup, freshly squeezed)
Soy sauce (2 tbsp)
Honey (3 tbsp)
Rice vinegar (1 tbsp)
Chicken broth (1/2 cup)
Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Ginger (1 tbsp, minced)
Cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water)
Green onions (2, chopped, for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch. Dip each piece in the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and chicken broth. Set aside.
Cook the Aromatics: In a clean skillet or wok, add a small amount of oil. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the Sauce: Pour the lemon sauce mixture into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the lemon chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Perfect Asian Lemon Chicken
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor for the sauce.
Fry in Batches: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring each piece gets crispy.
Adjust Sweetness: Customize the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: What can I serve with Asian Lemon Chicken? A: This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Conclusion
Asian Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tangy, savory, and sweet flavors in perfect harmony. It's easy to make at home and sure to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious meal that's bursting with flavor. Bon appetit!
