Lemon Chicken Recipe: A Zesty and Flavorful Delight
If you’re in the mood for something both tangy and savory, this Lemon Chicken (Pollo al Limone) is a perfect choice for a quick yet delicious second-course meal. With its refreshing lemon flavor and tender chicken pieces, this dish combines fresh ingredients and an easy cooking process. The added depth from soy sauce and a touch of sweetness from sugar ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Let’s take a step-by-step journey to prepare this irresistible dish.
Ingredients for Lemon Chicken
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breast (Petto di pollo) | 600g |
| All-purpose Flour (Farina 00) | As needed |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Olio EVO) | As needed |
| Oregano (Origano) | As needed |
| Lemon Zest (Scorza di limone) | 1 lemon |
| Lemon Juice (Succo di limone) | 100g |
| Water (Acqua) | 200g |
| Cornstarch (Amido di mais) | 20g |
| Sugar (Zucchero) | 10g |
| Salt (Sale fino) | As needed |
| Soy Sauce (Salsa di soia) | 10g |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Instructions for Preparing Lemon Chicken
-
Grate the Lemon Zest
Begin by zesting the lemon, ensuring you only take the outer yellow part of the peel. This zest will add a vibrant, citrusy aroma that will infuse the chicken with fresh flavor. Set aside the zest for later use. -
Prepare the Chicken
Take the chicken breast and carefully slice it in half lengthwise, removing any excess fat or connective tissue. Cut each half into strips, making them bite-sized for easy cooking. You can also opt to cut them into small cubes if preferred. -
Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken is prepared, coat each piece lightly with flour. Ensure that the chicken is evenly coated but not overly dusted, as the flour will help to thicken the sauce later on and give the chicken a slight crispness when seared. -
Heat the Pan and Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces to the pan. Sauté the chicken for about 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are evenly browned and cooked through. The chicken should develop a golden-brown crust, which will enhance the flavor. -
Add Sugar and Soy Sauce
Once the chicken is browned, add 10g of sugar to the pan. Stir well to combine, allowing the sugar to melt and create a slight caramelization. Add 10g of soy sauce and continue to stir. The soy sauce will impart a savory, umami flavor that balances the brightness of the lemon later on. -
Prepare the Lemon Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix 100g of lemon juice with 200g of water. Stir in 20g of cornstarch to create a slurry. This mixture will thicken as it cooks, transforming into a smooth, velvety sauce. -
Combine the Ingredients
Pour the lemon-water-cornstarch mixture into the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine and let the mixture cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Be sure to stir gently with a whisk to avoid clumping of the cornstarch. -
Simmer and Allow the Sauce to Thicken
Continue cooking for an additional 3–4 minutes, ensuring the sauce is smooth and has fully thickened. The chicken should be tender and coated in the glossy lemon sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust with a pinch of salt if necessary, according to your preference. -
Finish with Lemon Zest
As the dish nears completion, sprinkle in the lemon zest you grated earlier. This will add an extra layer of fresh, zesty flavor to the sauce, making it even more aromatic and vibrant. -
Serve the Lemon Chicken
Once the sauce has thickened to a perfect consistency and the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Lemon Chicken to a serving platter and garnish with a few extra sprigs of oregano or fresh herbs if desired.
Serve the chicken immediately while it’s still hot, allowing the tangy lemon sauce to shine. Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations
-
Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts: If you prefer a more flavorful cut of chicken, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They tend to be juicier and will add a deeper flavor to the dish.
-
Adjusting the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of sugar to your liking. Alternatively, you can substitute honey for a more natural sweetness.
-
Adding Vegetables: For an even heartier meal, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the pan while cooking the chicken. They will absorb the lemony sauce and add color and texture.
-
Lemon Variations: If you want an even more citrus-forward flavor, you can substitute the lemon juice with lime juice, or add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for a different take on the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken
This Lemon Chicken recipe is the epitome of a quick and easy meal that still delivers on taste. The combination of succulent chicken, zesty lemon, and savory soy sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you are preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant color, bold flavors, and delightful fragrance.
At Love with Recipes, we believe in making meals that are simple, flavorful, and enjoyable for everyone. This Lemon Chicken will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire, perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. Try it today, and you’ll be transported to a world of vibrant Mediterranean flavors in just under 30 minutes!
By following these straightforward instructions, you can make a dish that’s as refreshing as it is delicious. Happy cooking, and remember to share this fantastic recipe with friends and family!
