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Colorful Citrus Chicken Stir Fry with vibrant vegetables and zesty sauce

Lemon Chicken Stir Fry

A quick and flavorful meal featuring tender chicken, vibrant green beans, and a zesty lemon sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the sauce

  • ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce Adds savory depth without overwhelming saltiness.
  • ¼ cup honey Balances the acidity of the lemon.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Grated from one small lemon.
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed from 1-2 lemons.
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil Brings warmth and richness to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger root Adds a kick of flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced) Enhances the dish with its distinct flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce Adds a hint of heat.

Main ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds chicken breast Cut into 1-inch pieces.
  • ⅓ cup cornstarch Coats the chicken for a crispy exterior.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 10 ounces green beans Trimmed and cut in half.
  • 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil Used for sautéing.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional) For garnish.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce until well combined. Set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Cooking

  • Heat a sauté pan over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the green beans and stir frequently for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to blister. Remove from the pan.
  • In the same pan, add the second tablespoon of oil and cook the chicken pieces in a single layer for 3-4 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown.
  • Add the cooked green beans back to the pan with the chicken, pour the sauce over, and stir to coat everything. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve over rice.

Notes

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Meal prep is possible, and you can customize the veggies. Adjust chili garlic sauce to control spiciness.
Keyword Comfort Food, Family Meals, Healthy Stir Fry, Lemon Chicken Stir Fry, Quick Dinners