Easy Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken Recipe
Welcome to this delicious and flavorful Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken recipe. If you’re looking for a quick and easy dish that’s bursting with tangy and sweet flavors, then you’re in for a treat. This recipe combines succulent chicken pieces with a sticky and citrusy glaze that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to impress their taste buds with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken recipe deserves a spot in your cooking repertoire. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Secondly, the combination of Asian flavors with the zesty lemon creates a mouthwatering balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Lastly, this recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone.
Ingredients
For this Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until it forms a smooth slurry.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken thighs to the hot pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
5. Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.
7. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
8. Serve the Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Expert Tips for Success
– Marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
– For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
– Make sure to slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for easier cooking and serving.
– To achieve a sticky glaze, cook the chicken on low heat after adding the sauce, allowing it to slowly thicken.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe can be customized to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few variations and substitutions to consider:
– If you prefer a different protein, such as shrimp or tofu, feel free to substitute it for the chicken.
– For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers.
– If you’re gluten-free, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce, and ensure that your cornstarch is labeled gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
The Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the dish by serving it with complementary side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
– Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
– Serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete and well-balanced meal.
– Add a refreshing touch by serving a side salad with citrusy dressing.
– For a more substantial meal, serve the chicken with Asian-style noodles or fried rice.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be leaner and may require slightly less cooking time.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to enjoy the Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and marinate the chicken overnight for convenience. Cook the chicken just before serving to ensure maximum flavor and texture.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a simple and mouthwatering Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken recipe that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. With its tangy and sweet flavors, this dish is perfect for those who crave a burst of Asian-inspired cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, give it a try, and let your culinary skills shine!
Easy Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken Recipe
Enjoy succulent chicken pieces glazed with a sticky and citrusy sauce in this delicious Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken recipe. Perfect for anyone who wants a flavorful dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions
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In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
-
In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until it forms a smooth slurry.
-
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
-
Add the chicken thighs to the hot pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
-
Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken.
-
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.
-
Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
-
Serve the Sticky Asian Lemon Chicken over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
