The Surprising Side Dish That Goes Best With Lemon Chicken

Lemon chicken is a classic dish that tantalizes taste buds with its zesty and tangy flavors. Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for various occasions and palates. However, to elevate your lemon chicken experience, it’s crucial to pair it with the right sides and accompaniments. This blog post will delve into the delectable world of lemon chicken and explore a wide range of options to complement its vibrant flavors.

Side Dishes

1. Steamed Vegetables:

Fresh, crisp vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans provide a healthy and refreshing contrast to the richness of lemon chicken. Their natural sweetness balances the tanginess, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

2. Roasted Potatoes:

Golden-brown roasted potatoes add a hearty and earthy element to the meal. Their crispy exterior and tender interior complement the juicy lemon chicken, making it a satisfying and comforting dish.

3. Rice:

Fluffy white rice is an excellent base for lemon chicken. It absorbs the flavorful sauce, creating a delectable bite that satisfies hunger. Brown rice or quinoa can also be used for a healthier option.

4. Noodles:

Stir-fried noodles, such as lo mein or chow mein, provide a chewy and savory accompaniment to lemon chicken. Their subtle flavors allow the lemon sauce to shine through while adding a satisfying texture.

Sauces and Dips

1. Sweet and Sour Sauce:

A classic pairing for lemon chicken, sweet and sour sauce adds a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity. Its vibrant red color and tangy flavor complement the zesty lemon notes perfectly.

2. Soy Sauce:

Soy sauce enhances the umami flavors of lemon chicken. Its salty and slightly sweet taste adds depth to the dish without overpowering the delicate lemon notes.

3. Garlic Sauce:

For a savory and aromatic boost, garlic sauce is an excellent choice. Its rich and garlicky flavor adds a subtle complexity to the lemon chicken, creating a mouthwatering combination.

4. Honey Mustard:

Honey mustard provides a sweet and tangy dip that complements the tanginess of lemon chicken. Its creamy texture and hint of sweetness add a touch of sophistication to the meal.

Salads

1. Green Salad:

A fresh and vibrant green salad adds a refreshing touch to the richness of lemon chicken. Leafy greens, such as spinach or romaine lettuce, provide a crisp and light base for the zesty lemon flavors.

2. Asian Salad:

An Asian salad, featuring ingredients like shredded carrots, cucumbers, and edamame, offers a flavorful and crunchy accompaniment to lemon chicken. Its sesame-based dressing adds a subtle Asian twist to the dish.

3. Fruit Salad:

For a sweet and refreshing contrast, a fruit salad is a delightful option. Fresh fruits like berries, pineapple, and citrus segments add a vibrant and juicy element to the meal.

Breads

1. Rice Krispies:

Crushed Rice Krispies add a playful and crunchy texture to lemon chicken. Their sweet and crispy exterior provides a delightful contrast to the tangy lemon sauce.

2. Breadsticks:

Warm and fluffy breadsticks are a classic accompaniment for lemon chicken. Their soft and chewy texture complements the juicy chicken, making each bite a satisfying experience.

3. Naan Bread:

Naan bread, with its soft and pliable texture, is a perfect choice for dipping into the flavorful lemon sauce. Its slightly tangy flavor adds an extra layer of complexity to the dish.

Final Thoughts:

Lemon chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide range of sides, sauces, salads, and breads. By exploring these options, you can create a harmonious and delectable meal that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves you craving for more. Experiment with different pairings to find the perfect combinations that suit your palate and elevate your lemon chicken experience to new heights.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. What is the best way to serve lemon chicken?

Lemon chicken can be served as a main course or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

2. Can I make lemon chicken ahead of time?

Yes, lemon chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. What are some variations on lemon chicken?

You can add different ingredients to lemon chicken to create variations, such as honey, garlic, or ginger. You can also use different types of chicken, such as boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs.

4. What are some good side dishes for lemon chicken?

Some good side dishes for lemon chicken include steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice, noodles, or a green salad.

5. What are some good sauces for lemon chicken?

Some good sauces for lemon chicken include sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, garlic sauce, or honey mustard.