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–+ servings
Spicy Lemon Chicken (2)

Easy Spicy Lemon Chicken Drumsticks

Tangy lemon, a hint of heat, and perfectly seared chicken drumsticks. This simple, flavor-packed dinner is always a family favorite. Save this easy weeknight recipe!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade

  • 4 chicken drumsticks deboned and cut into 2-3cm cubes
  • 2 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 g salt
  • Black pepper to taste

For Cooking & Assembly

  • 1/2 onion sliced
  • 1 lemon thinly sliced and seeds removed
  • 3-5 bird's eye chilies sliced into rings
  • 1/2 tsp fine granulated sugar
  • Small handful of cilantro cut into segments
  • Cooking oil as needed

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken

  • Wash and debone the chicken drumsticks, then cut them into small 3 cm cubes.
  • Place the chicken in a large bowl and add the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
  • Mix well with your hands until every piece is evenly coated.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and marinate for 30 minutes. If you're short on time, marinate for at least 15–20 minutes.

Prepare the Aromatics

  • While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables.
  • Thinly slice the onion into strips.
  • Slice the lemon into thin rounds, and using a toothpick or the tip of a knife, carefully remove all the seeds.
  • Slice the bird's eye chilies into rings and roughly chop the cilantro. Set everything aside.

Cook the Chicken

  • Place a large frying pan or skillet over medium-low heat and add a tablespoon of cooking oil.
  • Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook in batches.
  • Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes, until a golden-brown crust forms on one side.
  • Flip the pieces and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the other side is browned and the chicken is cooked through.

Combine and Finish the Dish

  • Add the onion slices and stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Finally, add the granulated sugar, chilies, lemon slices, and cilantro. Stir quickly so the chicken absorbs the spicy lemon flavor.
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