Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken: The Ultimate Recipe
Introduction to Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken
If you’re on the lookout for a delightful meal that combines crispy textures with a zesty flavor, then Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken is just the dish for you! This recipe is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a deliciously crunchy exterior and a tangy, sweet sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking skills, making it accessible for cooks of all ages.
A Personal Story Behind My Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken Journey
I remember the first time I tried Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken at a friend’s dinner party. The moment I took a bite, I was hooked! The crispy coating and the vibrant flavors of honey and lemon were a match made in heaven. Since then, I have made it countless times, tweaking the recipe to perfection. It has become a family favorite, and I hope it brings joy to your table as it has to mine!
What Makes This Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out due to its unique combination of flavors and textures. The chicken is coated in a crunchy cornstarch layer that becomes perfectly crisp in the oven, while the homemade sauce provides a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. It’s an ideal dish for those who love a bit of crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s baked instead of fried, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste!
The Full Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 large egg, whisked
- For the sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp hot sauce or hot pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder or minced fresh garlic
- 1/2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This helps to ensure even cooking and makes for easy eating!
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water. In another bowl, place the cornstarch. Coat each piece of chicken in the egg mixture, then roll it in the cornstarch. Place the coated chicken on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all chicken pieces are coated. This will give the chicken its signature crunch!
- Bake the chicken for about 15 minutes on the top half of the oven or until it is cooked through. The chicken should have a pale yellow coating from the cornstarch and egg mixture. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan for the best crispiness.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients except for the cornstarch and water. Bring the mixture to a low boil, stirring to combine. After about 1 minute, dissolve the cornstarch in water and add it to the sauce. Stir and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 1 minute.
- Once the chicken is cooked, move the baking sheet to the bottom third of the oven. Turn the oven to low broil. Let the chicken cook for 5-10 minutes or until the pieces turn light brown and crisp up. Watch closely to prevent burning, as broiling can cook quickly!
- Add the cooked chicken to the saucepan and coat the pieces in the sauce. Serve immediately, optionally with rice, and garnish with fresh chopped scallions for a pop of color and flavor!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy white rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter option. For those who like it spicy, consider adding more hot sauce or hot pepper flakes to the sauce to kick up the heat. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version or use different proteins, such as shrimp or beef, for a new twist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just bake the chicken when you’re ready to serve.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and they should last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Baked Crunchy Honey Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 large egg whisked
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water. In another bowl, place the cornstarch. Coat the chicken in the egg mixture, then roll it in the cornstarch. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the chicken for about 15 minutes on the top half of the oven or until cooked through.
- Prepare the sauce by combining all sauce ingredients except cornstarch and water. Bring to a low boil, stir to combine, then add cornstarch mixed with water.
- Once chicken is cooked, move to the bottom third of the oven and turn to low broil. Cook for 5-10 minutes until light brown and crispy.
- Add the cooked chicken to the saucepan and coat in the sauce. Serve immediately.