Looking for a family-friendly meal that is both easy and delicious? Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken checks all the boxes! This dish offers the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors. In this post, I’ll walk you through every step, from prepping the chicken to crafting a mouthwatering sauce. You don’t need to be a chef to impress your loved ones with this simple recipe. Let’s dive in and make dinner unforgettable!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Crispy Texture: The combination of cornstarch and flour creates an incredibly crispy coating on the chicken, giving each bite a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
- Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The honey lemon sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, elevating the chicken to a whole new level of flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: This crispy honey lemon chicken can be served with rice, noodles, or even as a filling for wraps, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Preparation Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the chicken, we need fresh chicken breast. Cut it into small pieces. The cornstarch helps make the chicken crispy. The all-purpose flour adds texture. The baking powder gives it a nice lift. Eggs are for coating the chicken. Don’t forget salt and pepper to season!
Honey Lemon Sauce Ingredients
– 1/3 cup honey
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon cornflour mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
For the sauce, honey and lemon juice give it a sweet and tangy taste. Soy sauce adds depth. Garlic brings flavor, while lemon zest gives a fresh kick. The cornflour mixed with water helps thicken the sauce, making it perfect for coating the chicken.
Optional Garnishes
– Sesame seeds
– Finely chopped green onions
For a pop of color and taste, use sesame seeds and green onions. They add crunch and a fresh touch to your dish. Garnishing makes your meal look even more inviting! Enjoy making this delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by mixing cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Make sure these dry ingredients blend well. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Dip each chicken piece into the eggs, letting any extra drip off. Then, coat each piece in the flour mix, ensuring they are covered evenly. This step makes the chicken crispy when cooked.
Frying the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, it’s ready. Add the chicken pieces in batches, but don’t crowd the pan. Fry them for about 4 to 5 minutes. Turn the chicken occasionally until it turns golden brown and crispy. Once done, place the chicken on a paper towel to soak up excess oil.
Making the Honey Lemon Sauce
In a medium saucepan, mix honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, and lemon zest. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. After it simmers, add the cornflour mixed with water. Keep stirring for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely. This sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the chicken.
Combining and Serving the Dish
Now, toss the crispy chicken in the honey lemon sauce. Make sure each piece gets coated well. You want the chicken to glisten with sauce. This step ensures that every bite is delicious and full of flavor.
Plating Suggestions
Serve the glazed chicken on a nice plate. For a pop of color, sprinkle sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions on top. This not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look appealing. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Best Frying Techniques for Crispy Texture
To get crispy chicken, use the right oil. I prefer vegetable oil for frying. Heat the oil to medium-high heat before adding the chicken. If the oil is hot enough, the chicken will fry, not steam. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. This keeps the heat steady and gives you that perfect crunch.
Adjusting Sauce Thickness
If you want a thicker sauce, use more cornflour mixed with water. Start with one teaspoon of cornflour and one tablespoon of water. Mix it in well and add it to the sauce while it simmers. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. If it’s too thick, add a bit more lemon juice or water to loosen it up.
Making Ahead of Time Recommendations
You can make the sauce ahead. Just store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it gently. For the chicken, fry it right before serving for the best texture. If you need to, you can fry the chicken a few hours ahead. Just keep it warm in a low oven. This way, you keep the crunchiness intact!
Pro Tips
- Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture. A temperature of around 350°F (175°C) is ideal.
- Double Coating: For extra crispiness, consider double coating the chicken by dipping it back into the egg and flour mixture a second time before frying.
- Resting Time: Allow the fried chicken to rest on a paper towel for a few minutes to let excess oil drain and maintain its crispiness.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the sauce by adding chili flakes for a spicy kick or additional herbs for more flavor depth.
Variations
Alternative Protein Options
You can switch out chicken for other proteins. Use shrimp for a quick cook time. Firm tofu works well for a plant-based option. Both will soak up the honey lemon sauce nicely. You might also try pork tenderloin, cut into small pieces. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.
Flavor Add-Ins for the Sauce
Want to mix up the flavor? Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. For a smoky taste, try adding smoked paprika. You can even experiment with citrus zest, like lime or orange, to brighten the sauce.
Healthier Modifications
To make this dish lighter, use skinless chicken breasts. Air frying can reduce oil use while keeping crispiness. Swap honey for a sugar-free alternative if needed. You can also add more veggies to the dish, like bell peppers or broccoli, for extra nutrients. These changes keep the meal flavorful and satisfying.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
You can keep leftover crispy honey lemon chicken in your fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, check for any signs of spoilage. If it smells off, toss it out.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is also an option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use an oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the chicken crispy. If you use a microwave, be aware it may become soggy.
FAQs
How to make the chicken extra crispy?
To make your chicken extra crispy, use a mix of cornstarch and flour. Cornstarch adds great crunch. Ensure the oil is hot before frying. This helps to seal the coating fast. Fry the chicken in small batches. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken.
Can I substitute ingredients for the Honey Lemon Sauce?
Yes, you can swap some ingredients in the sauce. Try maple syrup instead of honey for a different taste. If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, use bottled juice. You can also add ginger for a spicy kick. Just keep the base flavors balanced for the best outcome.
What sides pair well with Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken?
Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken goes well with many sides. Steamed rice is a great choice. You can also serve it with stir-fried veggies for color and nutrients. A light salad with a citrus dressing can add freshness. These sides enhance the meal without overpowering the chicken.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?
This dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend 15 minutes prepping the ingredients. Cooking the chicken and making the sauce takes another 15 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy your tasty meal in no time!
You learned how to make Crispy Honey Lemon Chicken with simple steps and tasty tips. We covered ingredients, preparation, and cooking methods to help you succeed. You can customize this dish with variations or tips for meal prep. Remember to store leftovers properly for future meals. Enjoy making this dish for your friends and family. Trust me, they’ll love i
