After an exhausting day, there’s nothing quite like coming home to the irresistible aroma of something sizzling in the pan. Enter my Crispy Chicken with Cheat’s Preserved Lemon Sauce — a dish I stumbled upon during my quest to add zest to my weeknight dinners. The first bite is a delightful contrast of the crunchy, golden chicken paired with a tangy, bright sauce that just bursts with flavor. The preserved lemon elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary, making it perfect for those evenings when you want to impress yourself (and perhaps a few guests) without spending hours in the kitchen.
With a simple marinade and quick frying method, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy lives while still offering that homemade feel we all crave. Whether paired with fluffy coconut rice or fresh veggies, this chicken dish promises to be a family favorite that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that marries crunch, zest, and a hint of sophistication!
Why love this Double Lemon Chicken recipe?
Simplicity is Key: This dish utilizes easy-to-follow steps that require minimal culinary skills, making it ideal for home cooks of all levels.
Flavor Explosion: The cheat’s preserved lemon infuses the sauce with a unique zing, setting this dish apart from typical chicken recipes.
Quick Marinating: You can marinate in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight but flavor is a must.
Crispy Delight: The perfectly fried chicken retains its golden crispy crust, ensuring every bite is satisfying and delicious.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it up with coconut rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal that caters to various tastes.
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is bound to impress family or guests, making it a go-to when you want to make an impression without a fuss.
Crispy Chicken with Cheat’s Preserved Lemon Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Main protein; ensure even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Egg Whites – Bind the coating, adding moisture; substitute with whole eggs if desired.
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Cornflour (Cornstarch) – Provides crispy texture; can substitute with potato starch for a different flavor.
• Sunflower Oil – Used for frying; can swap for canola oil if preferred.
For the Cheat’s Preserved Lemon Sauce
• Cheat’s Preserved Lemon – The key flavor component; regular lemon juice can be used but will differ in taste.
• Stock – Provides a base for the sauce; chicken or vegetable stock can be interchangeable.
• Butter – Adds richness; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
• Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor; use fresh garlic for the best results.
• Sugar – Balances the acidity of the lemon; can be omitted or replaced with honey.
• Turmeric – Adds color and earthy flavor; can skip if not available.
• Cumin – Provides warm, spicy undertone; coriander can be a milder substitute.
• Spring Onion (Green Onion) – Fresh garnish for crunch and mild onion flavor.
Enjoy preparing this Crispy Chicken with Cheat’s Preserved Lemon dish that will elevate your weeknight dinners!
How to Make Crispy Chicken with Cheat’s Preserved Lemon Sauce
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Make Cheat’s Preserved Lemon: In a saucepan, combine all ingredients and simmer for 12-14 minutes until the lemon rinds are translucent. Blend the mixture into a smooth paste for a flavorful base.
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Prepare Chicken: Whisk together egg whites, soy sauce, cornflour, and seasonings. Pound chicken breasts to 1 cm thick for even cooking, coat in the mixture, and marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
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Make Lemon Sauce: In a separate saucepan, mix the preserved lemon paste, stock, butter, garlic, sugar, turmeric, and cumin. Bring to a boil and reduce by a third, then thicken the sauce with a cornflour mixture.
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Fry Chicken: Heat sunflower oil in a frying pan and cook the marinated chicken for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to keep it crispy.
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Combine: Simmer the fried chicken in the lemon sauce for 3 minutes, then stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice for that extra zest.
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Serve: Arrange the crispy chicken on a platter, drizzle with the luscious lemon sauce, and garnish with spring onion and coriander for a fresh finish.
Optional: Serve with coconut rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore its crunchiness.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Lemon Sauce: The cheat’s preserved lemon sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat gently over low heat before serving to maintain its flavor.
Reheating: Always reheat chicken in the oven or air fryer to achieve that wonderful crispy texture again, rather than in the microwave.
Crispy Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds, resulting in delightful surprises with each iteration!
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Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs, which are juicier and offer a deeper flavor in every bite. The crispy crunch paired with tender meat is absolutely irresistible!
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Gluten-Free Swap: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. You’ll still enjoy that umami goodness!
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Zesty Alternative: If you’re short on time, replace preserved lemon with a mix of regular lemon zest and juice for a lighter twist. This option brings a fresh zing and keeps things simple!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the lemon sauce to elevate the heat level. This variation appeals to spice lovers, adding excitement to each delicious bite.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the sauce for an aromatic touch. This brightens up the dish, giving it a lovely garden-fresh flavor!
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Coconut Milk Creaminess: For a creamier sauce, incorporate a splash of coconut milk into the mixture as it simmers. This twist softens the acidity and adds an indulgent texture.
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Crispy Alternatives: Consider trying panko breadcrumbs for a different texture. They can make your chicken even crunchier and provide a delightful contrast to the tender interior.
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Sweetener Variants: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon beautifully. The flavor profile takes on a wonderful depth with this small change!
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken with Cheat’s Preserved Lemon Sauce?
Indulge in a sumptuous meal that enhances the vibrant flavors of your crispy chicken while delivering delightful textures and contrasting tastes.
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Fluffy Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice complements the zesty lemon sauce beautifully, creating a tropical escape on your plate.
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Tenderstem Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie adds a crisp crunch and a refreshing bite, balancing the richness of the fried chicken.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, these mashed potatoes provide a velvety smooth texture that pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon sauce.
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Quinoa Salad: A nutritious burst of flavor with fresh veggies and a light dressing; this salad’s earthy notes perfectly contrast the bright sauce.
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Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with a bright vinaigrette, this salad offers a refreshing, light element that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
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Sesame Noodles: The nutty flavor of sesame combined with a touch of soy sauce creates a delectable side dish that echoes the Asian-inspired theme of the chicken.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can highlight the zesty flavors, making it a delightful pairing for a relaxing evening.
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Lemon Sorbet: To end the meal on a bright note, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet for a refreshing, palate-cleansing dessert rich with citrusy goodness.
Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken
• Pound Evenly: Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures uniform cooking and prevents dry spots.
• Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it’s too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken is cooked through.
• Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, consider marinating your chicken overnight. This allows the flavors from the cheat’s preserved lemon to deeply infuse.
• Crispy Coating: Use cornstarch for a super crispy texture. Avoid adding too much liquid, as it can make the coating soggy.
• Drain Well: After frying, drain the chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep the crust crispy.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality juice for the sauce. Fresh ingredients enhance the vibrant flavors of this dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chicken with Cheat’s Preserved Lemon Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the Cheat’s preserved lemon up to 3 days in advance; just store it in a sterilized jar in the refrigerator for easy access. Additionally, marinate the chicken in the egg white mixture for up to 24 hours before cooking to enhance its flavor and tenderness. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken, make the lemon sauce, and combine them — resulting in a delicious meal without the last-minute rush. Just remember to reheat gently to keep the chicken crispy and the sauce smooth, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dinner with minimal effort!
Crispy Chicken with Cheat’s Preserved Lemon Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose chicken breasts that are bright pink with no dark spots or unpleasant odors. When selecting preserved lemons, look for those with a fragrant aroma and a vibrant yellow color. Avoid rinds that appear dark or slimy, as this can indicate spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
To enjoy your crispy chicken later, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the chicken for about 10 minutes. This method will help restore its delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the crispy chicken and preserve the texture?
Very! To freeze your crispy chicken, first allow it to cool completely. Then tightly wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. Label it with the date. You can freeze for up to 2 months. To reheating, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake in the oven for about 15 minutes to retain that crispy coating.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, definitely! If you or someone you’re serving has gluten sensitivities, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari. For those who are dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil in the lemon sauce. Always check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens.
What if my chicken coating isn’t crispy enough?
If you’re facing the issue of soggy coating, fear not! Make sure you’re using enough cornflour (cornstarch) in your mixture as it provides the key crunch. Also, ensure that the oil is hot enough before frying; ideally, it should be around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb oil and lose its crispness. For the best results, use a thermometer. Remember to drain the chicken on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil, maintaining that desired crunch!
Double Lemon Chicken with Cheat’s Preserved Lemon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine all ingredients for the Cheat's Preserved Lemon and simmer for 12-14 minutes until the lemon rinds are translucent. Blend the mixture into a smooth paste.
- Whisk together egg whites, soy sauce, cornflour, and seasonings. Pound chicken breasts to 1 cm thick for even cooking, coat in the mixture, and marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- In a separate saucepan, mix the preserved lemon paste, stock, butter, garlic, sugar, turmeric, and cumin. Bring to a boil and reduce by a third, then thicken the sauce with a cornflour mixture.
- Heat sunflower oil in a frying pan and cook the marinated chicken for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to keep it crispy.
- Simmer the fried chicken in the lemon sauce for 3 minutes, then stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice for extra zest.
- Arrange the crispy chicken on a platter, drizzle with the luscious lemon sauce, and garnish with spring onion and coriander for a fresh finish.