Chinese Lemon Chicken
Chinese Lemon Chicken offers a unique blend of tangy lemon flavor with a crunchy almond crust, perfectly suited for those seeking a flavorful, satisfying meal with a twist. The dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory coating, making it ideal for casual dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the dry lemon flavored jello, garlic salt, and prepared mustard in a bowl.
- Add the melted margarine to the mixture and stir well.
- Place the mixture in an oblong baking dish.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer, turning to coat both sides.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the chicken.
- Cover the dish with foil or a lid and bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes, basting once during cooking.
- Remove the cover, baste again, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, consider adding fresh lemon juice or zest to the jello mixture. If you're out of garlic salt, a mix of regular salt and garlic powder can work well. You can also substitute the margarine with butter for a richer taste. For a more nutritious dish, try adding steamed broccoli or snap peas as a side, reminiscent of other Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful juices. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like bok choy or a fresh salad, such as Chinese Chicken Slaw, to balance the richness of the chicken. For an added crunch, sprinkle more sliced almonds on top just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chinese Lemon Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Lemon Chicken contains roughly 415 calories, with 16g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. They will provide a richer flavor and remain juicy when baked. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
What can I serve with Chinese Lemon Chicken?
This dish goes well with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also pair it with sautéed vegetables or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it with other Chinese recipes for a complete meal.
How do I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of lemon jello used or substitute it with a lower-sugar option. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more garlic salt or some freshly cracked black pepper.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).