This delightful Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken is perfect for a hearty dinner. It's easy to make, packed with delicious flavors of honey, lemon, and ginger. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, with a sweet and tangy sauce that's unforgettable. You'll be delighted with the balance of flavors and the simplicity of this dish.
The main ingredients for this recipe are generally readily available in most households. However, fresh ginger root might not be a common pantry staple. It's usually found in the produce section of the supermarket. It's also preferable to use fresh lemon juice and zest instead of the bottled kind for the best flavor. Make sure to grab these if you're planning to make this dish.
Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken Ingredients
Chicken breasts: This lean protein is versatile and absorbs the flavors of the sauce really well.
Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the other flavors.
Olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and ginger and to cook the chicken.
Garlic: Adds an aromatic depth to the sauce.
Ginger: Gives a warm and slightly spicy flavor.
Honey: Provides a sweet balance to the tangy lemon.
Lemon juice and zest: Give a fresh and tangy flavor to the dish.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a bit of tartness and depth of flavor.
Soy sauce: Gives an umami flavor and a bit of saltiness.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to coat the chicken nicely.
One reader, Derward Metcalf says:
This honey lemon ginger chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the chicken turns out so tender and juicy. The combination of honey, lemon, and ginger creates a delightful zing that's simply irresistible. It's now a family favorite in our household!
Techniques Required
How to sauté garlic and ginger: In a medium saucepan, add olive oil, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
How to thicken the sauce: In the saucepan, add honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer and thicken while cooking the chicken.
How to cook the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to a medium skillet. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until no longer pink in the center and the outside is starting to brown.
How to toss the chicken in the sauce: Add the thickened sauce to the cooked chicken in the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
How To Make Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken
If you’re after a healthy and flavorful dish, then this ginger chicken recipe is for you. It’s sweetened with honey and livened up with lemon juice.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbschicken breasts,boneless
- salt and pepper
- 1tspolive oil
- 3garlic cloves,minced
- 2tspginger,freshly grated
- ½cuphoney
- 3tbsplemon juice,fresh
- 1lemon zest
- 1tbspapple cider vinegar
- 1tbspsoy sauce,low sodium
- 2tspcornstarch
Instructions
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In a medium saucepan, add the olive oil, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes and add honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
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Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Let simmer and thicken while cooking chicken.
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Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to a medium skillet. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until no longer pink in center and the outside is starting to brown.
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Add the sauce to the chicken and toss to coat.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 449.20kcal
- Fat: 16.96g
- Saturated Fat: 4.70g
- Trans Fat: 0.18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.33g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.48g
- Carbohydrates: 39.02g
- Fiber: 0.73g
- Sugar: 35.29g
- Protein: 36.24g
- Cholesterol: 108.86mg
- Sodium: 560.59mg
- Calcium: 35.15mg
- Potassium: 455.80mg
- Iron: 1.66mg
- Vitamin A: 41.11µg
- Vitamin C: 9.26mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken
When cooking the chicken, ensure that the pieces are evenly cut. This not only ensures uniform cooking but also allows the honey, lemon, and ginger sauce to coat each piece evenly, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, when adding the sauce to the chicken, do it gradually and toss gently to avoid breaking the chicken pieces. This will help to maintain the texture of the chicken while ensuring it's well coated with the sauce.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a single pot or pan for the entire recipe to minimize cleanup and save time.
Multitask: While the sauce is simmering, use that time to cook the chicken, maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store the extra servings for future quick and easy meals.
Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, streamlining the cooking process.
Efficient tools: Use kitchen tools like a garlic press, lemon squeezer, and sharp knives to speed up the prep work.
Follow the recipe: Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure you have all the ingredients and understand the steps, preventing any last-minute confusion.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes while cooking to minimize the post-cooking cleanup.
Substitute Ingredients For Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken Recipe
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts, offering a similar texture and taste in the dish.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a sweetener with a similar viscosity and flavor profile to honey, adding a rich and distinct sweetness to the dish.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can provide a tangy and citrusy flavor similar to lemon juice, adding a refreshing and zesty element to the chicken recipe.
ginger - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can offer a warm and aromatic flavor similar to ginger, adding a unique depth of spice to the dish.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide a mild acidity and fruity undertones similar to apple cider vinegar, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the recipe.
low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos can be used as a soy sauce alternative, offering a similar umami flavor with a lower sodium content, making it a suitable substitute for those with dietary restrictions.
Best Way to Present Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken
Elevate the plating: Arrange the honey lemon ginger chicken in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring each piece is placed with precision and care.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of freshly chopped parsley over the chicken to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Pair the chicken with vibrant, seasonal vegetables such as roasted carrots and blanched asparagus to create a visually stunning and appetizing plate.
Create a harmonious balance: Drizzle a delicate swirl of the honey lemon ginger sauce around the edge of the plate, ensuring it complements the dish without overpowering it.
Emphasize texture: Consider adding a small side of fluffy jasmine rice or crispy roasted potatoes to provide a textural contrast to the tender chicken.
Utilize elegant dinnerware: Present the dish on a sleek, white porcelain plate to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out and take center stage.
Highlight the aroma: Just before serving, sprinkle a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice over the dish to release a burst of citrus fragrance that tantalizes the senses.
Essential Tools for Making This Chicken Dish
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for various kitchen tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and sautéing.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking grains.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together.
Measuring cups: Used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure small amounts of ingredients with precision.
Tongs: A kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot, used for gripping and lifting items.
Zester: A tool used to remove the zest from citrus fruits, adding flavor to dishes.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade, used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Medium skillet: A medium-sized frying pan used for cooking and browning ingredients.
Medium saucepan: A cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for heating and cooking sauces, soups, and grains.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Olive oil: A type of oil used for cooking, dressing, and flavoring dishes.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, and spices.
Tongs: A kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot, used for gripping and lifting items.
Lemon squeezer: A tool used to extract juice from lemons.
Cornstarch: A fine, powdery starch used as a thickening agent in cooking.
Food thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of cooked foods.
Basting brush: A tool used for applying sauces, marinades, or melted butter to food.
How To Store and Freeze Leftover Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken
Let the honey lemon ginger chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the chicken fresh for longer.
If you plan to consume the chicken within 3-4 days, store it in the refrigerator. It will maintain its quality and flavor for this duration when properly sealed.
For longer storage, freeze the honey lemon ginger chicken for up to 2-3 months. To do this, transfer the cooled chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth and compromise food safety.
To reheat the thawed or refrigerated honey lemon ginger chicken, warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until it reaches the desired temperature. You can also microwave individual portions in microwave-safe containers, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
If the sauce appears too thick after freezing and thawing, you can thin it out by adding a little chicken broth or water while reheating. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to taste.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Here are the best methods for reheating leftover honey lemon ginger chicken:
Stovetop method: Place the leftover chicken in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help maintain moisture. Cover the pan and gently heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is warmed through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the chicken while preventing it from drying out.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover honey lemon ginger chicken to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This method is ideal for reheating larger portions of chicken while maintaining a crispy exterior.
Microwave method: While not the most recommended method due to the potential for uneven heating and drying out the chicken, the microwave can be used in a pinch. Place the leftover chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chicken is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly become dry and tough in the microwave.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, always ensure that the leftover honey lemon ginger chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness. Additionally, for best results, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 3-4 days before reheating and consuming.
Random Fact About Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken
Honey lemon ginger chicken is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine and is often enjoyed for its sweet and tangy flavor.
Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This honey lemon ginger chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breasts, garlic, ginger, honey, and lemon, are commonly found in most kitchens. The recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and can be easily adjusted to suit personal preferences. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its simplicity, flavor, and affordability.
Is This Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The honey lemon ginger chicken recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's why:
Positives:
- Chicken breast is a lean protein source, low in fat and high in essential amino acids
- Ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
- Lemon juice and zest provide vitamin C and a bright, fresh flavor
- Apple cider vinegar may aid in digestion and blood sugar regulation
Negatives:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of honey, which is high in sugar and calories
- Soy sauce, even low sodium, adds to the overall sodium content of the dish
- The recipe lacks vegetables, which could provide additional nutrients and fiber
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of honey to lower the sugar and calorie content
- Replace some of the honey with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or erythritol
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to reduce sodium intake
- Add a variety of colorful vegetables to the dish, such as:
- Bell peppers
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Snap peas
- Serve the chicken over a bed of nutrient-dense greens like spinach or kale
- Opt for organic, free-range chicken to ensure higher quality protein and fewer additives
- Experiment with different spices and herbs to boost flavor without adding calories, such as:
- Turmeric
- Cayenne pepper
- Thyme
- Rosemary
By incorporating these changes, you can elevate the nutritional value of the honey lemon ginger chicken recipe while still maintaining its delicious taste and satisfying texture. The added vegetables and spices will not only provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber but also create a more visually appealing and flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds and nourish your body.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Chicken Recipe
The honey lemon ginger chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that perfectly complement the tender chicken. The use of fresh ingredients like ginger, lemon, and garlic adds a vibrant and aromatic touch to the dish. The sauce's balance of honey and lemon, with a hint of soy sauce, creates a luscious glaze that coats the chicken beautifully. The addition of apple cider vinegar adds a subtle depth of flavor. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Why trust this Honey Lemon Ginger Chicken Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful culinary experience, featuring succulent chicken breasts infused with the zesty flavors of honey, lemon juice, and ginger. The meticulous combination of garlic and ginger enhances the dish's aromatic profile, while the addition of apple cider vinegar and soy sauce elevates its depth of flavor. The incorporation of cornstarch ensures a lusciously thickened glaze, perfectly coating the tender chicken. Trust in the harmonious blend of these quality ingredients to deliver a tantalizing and memorable dining experience.
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