Lemon Chicken Chinese Style
A delightful symphony of citrus and savory flavors that brings families together, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced Tender and quick to cook, but you can substitute with thighs for extra juiciness.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Opt for low-sodium if watching salt intake.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Use fresh for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch You can use arrowroot starch for a gluten-free option.
- 1 tablespoon sugar Honey can be used as a natural sweetener.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is best, but jarred can work in a pinch.
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated Feel free to skip if you aren’t a fan.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Can be replaced with sesame oil for deeper flavor.
- 1 unit lemon, sliced For garnish and additional brightness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, lemon juice, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir in the sliced chicken, ensuring that every piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Pan: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cooking
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water until smooth. Pour into the skillet, stirring quickly to thicken the sauce.
- Add Lemon Slices: Toss in the sliced lemons and infuse their bright flavor for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serving
- Transfer the dish to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
For a healthier spin, toss in some broccoli or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking. If you prefer a spicy kick, add chili flakes or Szechuan pepper. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with firm tofu.