Sunny’s Lemon Curry Chicken
Prepare to experience one of the most tantalizing baked chicken recipes you’ve ever tasted with Sunny’s Lemon Curry Chicken. This recipe, cherished for over 15 years, is a delightful tribute to a friend’s mom’s culinary prowess. Infused with a secret ingredient that elevates its flavor to a new level, the cornflake crumbs create a unique, crispy texture that perfectly complements the tangy lemon and aromatic curry powder. Ideal for brunch or any hearty meal, this dish promises to become a favorite in your recipe collection. 🍗✨
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg
- 4 pieces of chicken (such as thighs or breasts)
- Cornflake crumbs (for coating, amount as needed)
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small, covered container, combine the sugar, lemon juice, curry powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until the sugar and spices are well mixed into the lemon juice.
- Let this mixture sit at room temperature overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken. 🕰️🍋
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Preheat the Oven:
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to achieving a crisp, golden-brown exterior. 🔥
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Take the chicken pieces and dip them into the beaten egg, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. The egg will act as a binding agent, helping the cornflake crumbs adhere to the chicken. 🍳
- Next, coat the egg-dipped chicken pieces generously with cornflake crumbs. The crumbs will give the chicken a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness.
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Arrange and Bake:
- Place the coated chicken pieces, skin side down, on a piece of aluminum foil laid on a baking pan. This not only makes for easier cleanup but also ensures the chicken cooks evenly. 🍽️
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After the initial baking time, turn the chicken pieces over and baste them with the reserved marinade. This will add flavor and keep the chicken moist.
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Continue Baking:
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The cornflake coating should be crispy and golden brown. 🍗🌟
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or as a standout option for your next brunch gathering. The blend of lemon and curry provides a zesty, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. Enjoy the delight of Sunny’s Lemon Curry Chicken and the many compliments that are sure to follow! 🌟🍽️