How To Make Lemon Chicken – The Easy Way!
What To Know
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- With its bright and tangy flavor, tender chicken, and ease of preparation, lemon chicken is a dish that will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
- Place the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
Lemon chicken is a classic dish that combines the tangy freshness of lemons with the tender juiciness of chicken. This simple yet flavorful recipe is a perfect choice for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Dredge in flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Brown the chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Create the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, chicken broth, and honey.
5. Add the sauce: Pour the sauce over the browned chicken and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Garnish and serve: Stir in the chopped parsley and serve immediately over your favorite side dishes, such as rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Chicken:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give your dish the best flavor.
- Season generously: Don’t be afraid to add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the chicken through: Make sure the chicken is cooked through to prevent any risk of foodborne illness.
- Don’t overcook the sauce: The sauce should be thickened but not too thick. If it becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds a bright and flavorful touch to the dish.
Variations on Lemon Chicken:
- Add vegetables: Stir in some chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different citrus fruits: Instead of lemons, try using oranges, limes, or grapefruit for a different citrusy twist.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Serve with a side sauce: Offer a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet and sour sauce, to add an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion: Lemon Chicken Made Simple
With its bright and tangy flavor, tender chicken, and ease of preparation, lemon chicken is a dish that will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Follow these step-by-step instructions and experiment with different variations to create a delicious and satisfying meal that will delight your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: How long can I store leftover lemon chicken?
A: Leftover lemon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Place the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with lemon chicken?
A: Good side dishes for lemon chicken include rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Q: Can I use a different type of flour for dredging the chicken?
A: Yes, you can use any type of all-purpose flour, such as whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour.