Crispy and zesty: unveil the secrets of the ultimate lemon chicken recipe (fried)
What To Know
- For extra crispy chicken, double the coating by dipping the chicken in the cornstarch mixture, then the egg wash, and finally back into the cornstarch mixture.
- If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can shallow fry the chicken in a large skillet with a few inches of oil.
- Increase the honey in the sauce to 1/4 cup for a sweeter flavor.
Indulge in the tantalizing aroma of our delectable lemon chicken recipe fried. This dish tantalizes taste buds with its perfect balance of tangy lemon, savory chicken, and crispy breading. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
Make the Lemon Sauce:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, lemon zest, garlic, and ginger.
Fry the Chicken:
1. Heat a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil.
3. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
1. In a clean skillet, heat the lemon sauce over medium heat.
2. Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and toss to coat.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon chicken recipe fried immediately with your favorite sides, such as:
- Steamed rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
Tips for Success
- For extra crispy chicken, double the coating by dipping the chicken in the cornstarch mixture, then the egg wash, and finally back into the cornstarch mixture.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the sauce to your desired sweetness level.
- If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can shallow fry the chicken in a large skillet with a few inches of oil.
Variations
- Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the cornstarch mixture.
- Garlic Lemon Chicken: Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the lemon sauce.
- Honey Lemon Chicken: Increase the honey in the sauce to 1/4 cup for a sweeter flavor.
Health Benefits
Lemon chicken recipe fried is not only delicious but also offers some health benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Contains Vitamin C: Lemons are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function.
- Good Source of Fiber: Cornstarch provides dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health.
Wrap-Up: A Culinary Masterpiece
Our lemon chicken recipe fried is a true culinary masterpiece that will impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. Its tangy, savory, and crispy flavors combine harmoniously, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delectable. Experiment with our variations and tips to customize it to your liking. Enjoy this dish for lunch, dinner, or as a delightful appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Q: What can I serve with the lemon chicken?
A: Lemon chicken pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, add a cornstarch slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook until thickened.