Honey Lemon Chicken

There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet and tangy flavors that makes Honey Lemon Chicken a household favorite. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I craved something comforting yet vibrant. As I mixed the honey and lemon together, the kitchen filled with an aroma that instantly transported me to a sunlit orchard. The golden, crispy bites of chicken coated in that luscious honey lemon sauce had me hooked from the very first bite. I couldn’t wait to share it with family and friends, and now I’m excited to share it with you!

Honey Lemon Chicken Ingredients

The ingredients for Honey Lemon Chicken are simple yet impactful, forming a beautifully cohesive dish. Each element plays a vital role, from the succulent chicken breast to the zesty lemon juice. The combination of sweet and sour flavors creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the entire meal.

• 12oz (350g) chicken breast, cut into thin strips: The star of the dish, providing protein and substance.
• Oil, for deep-frying: Essential for achieving that crispy texture we crave.
• 1 lettuce leaf: A fresh garnish that adds a touch of crunch.
• Toasted sesame seeds, to garnish: Adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper: Adds a subtle spice without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the lemon.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides the signature zesty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce.
• 3 tablespoons honey: The star ingredient that brings sweetness to the dish.
• 1/2 cup water: Used for adjusting the sauce consistency.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Additional thickening agent for the batter.
• 1 large egg: Binds the batter and adds richness.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, sifted: Forms the base of the batter.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Further enhances the flavor of the batter.
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper: Adds flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• 2 tablespoons water: Helps achieve the right batter consistency.

How to Cook Honey Lemon Chicken

Cooking Honey Lemon Chicken is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow along as I guide you through each step, ensuring your chicken is crispy and flavorful. The combination of marinating, frying, and saucing brings out the best in every ingredient.

1. Start by marinating the chicken strips with all the marinade ingredients, including salt, white pepper, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Allow this to sit for about 10 minutes. This marination step infuses the chicken with flavor and helps tenderize it, making each bite juicy and delicious.
2. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the frying batter. In a large bowl, whisk the egg lightly and then mix in the remaining batter ingredients: flour, cornstarch, salt, white pepper, and a bit of water. The batter should be smooth and lump-free, with a consistency that will cling well to the chicken.
3. Once the batter is ready, drop the marinated chicken strips into the mixture. Toss gently to ensure each piece is fully coated. Look for a nice, even layer of batter on each strip to achieve that perfect crispy finish.
4. Next, prepare the honey lemon sauce in a separate bowl by mixing together the honey, lemon juice, water, sugar, and a touch of cornstarch. This sauce will bring everything together, giving the dish its signature flavor profile.
5. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat, allowing it to reach the right temperature for deep frying. Gently drop in the battered chicken strips, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures that the chicken fries evenly and becomes golden brown.
6. Fry the chicken for several minutes, turning occasionally, until it is golden brown and crispy. The exterior will become crunchy, while the inside remains tender and juicy. Remove the fried chicken from the oil and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
7. In a saucepan, pour in the honey lemon sauce mixture and bring it to a light simmer over medium heat. Stir quickly until the sauce starts to bubble and thicken slightly. The aroma will be intoxicating, signaling it’s almost time to serve!
8. To serve, place a fresh lettuce leaf on a plate as a bed for the chicken. Top the lettuce with the crispy chicken strips, then drizzle the hot honey lemon sauce generously over the top. This not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
9. Finally, finish the dish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top for a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Serve immediately with a side of steamed rice, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

Making Adjustments

While the original Honey Lemon Chicken recipe is fantastic as is, here are some tips for making adjustments based on your preferences or dietary needs.

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to regain its crispness.
• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or noodles. The sweet and tangy sauce complements a variety of sides beautifully.
• Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some chili flakes or sriracha to the honey lemon sauce for a spicy twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for tofu, using the same marinade and batter for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as ginger or garlic, to personalize the flavor to your liking.

Perfect Matches for Honey Lemon Chicken

When serving Honey Lemon Chicken, consider these delicious pairings to create a complete meal:

• Steamed Rice: A classic accompaniment, serving rice with the chicken allows you to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bright, colorful stir-fried veggies add nutrition and texture, making for a well-rounded plate.
• Spring Rolls: Serve as an appetizer for a delightful combination of flavors and textures before the main course.
• Salads: A fresh garden salad with a light dressing can balance the richness of the chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even holiday celebrations.
• Seasonal Pairings: Consider serving Honey Lemon Chicken during spring or summer when fresh produce is at its peak.

FAQ

Conclusion

The vibrant flavors of Honey Lemon Chicken make it a special dish worthy of your dinner table. Its balance of sweetness and tang, combined with a satisfying crunch, makes it a crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners or gatherings with friends. You might just find that it becomes a regular part of your meal rotation, bringing joy to your table time and time again.

Honey Lemon Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Lemon Chicken combines sweet honey and zesty lemon for an easy weeknight dinner. Crispy chicken strips coated in a luscious sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for any occasion, make it tonight!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 12oz oz chicken breast cut into thin strips
• 1 cup oil for deep-frying
• 1 lettuce leaf
• 1 toasted sesame seeds to garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour sifted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 2 tablespoons water

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Marinate the chicken strips with all the marinade ingredients for 10 minutes. In a large bowl, prepare the frying batter by lightly whisking the egg and mixing in the remaining batter ingredients.
2. The batter should be smooth, without lumps or being too runny. Drop the chicken strips into the batter and mix well until they are fully coated. In a separate bowl, mix all the ingredients for the honey lemon sauce thoroughly and set aside.
3. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Gently drop in the battered chicken strips, ensuring they are spread out to prevent sticking together while frying. Deep-fry the chicken strips until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. In a saucepan, gently pour in the honey lemon sauce and bring it to a light simmer. Stir quickly until the sauce bubbles, then remove from heat.
5. Place a lettuce leaf on a plate, top it with the chicken strips, and pour the honey lemon sauce over them. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

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