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–+ servings
Chinese Lemon Chicken

Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken: Easy Homemade Perfection

Delight in homemade Chinese Lemon Chicken, a crispy, tangy dish sure to impress at any dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs Thighs are juicier; breasts are leaner.
  • Salt Essential seasoning.
  • Pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 2 Eggs Helps coating adhere.
  • 0.5 cup Cornstarch Ensures a crispy exterior.
  • 0.5 cup All-purpose flour Provides structure and crunch.
For the Sauce
  • 0.33 cup Fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed preferred.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon zest Intensifies citrus flavor.
  • 0.25 cup Sugar or honey Balances acidity.
  • 0.25 cup Chicken broth or water Adds moisture.
  • 2 tbsp Soy sauce Adds umami flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Rice vinegar Provides a tangy note.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth.
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch mixed with water Slurry for thickening.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • saucepan
  • Bowls for dredging
  • Meat thermometer
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Step 1: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Prepare two bowls: one with beaten eggs, the other with a mix of cornstarch and flour.
  3. Step 3: Coat chicken in eggs, then in the flour mixture, setting aside on a plate.
  4. Step 4: Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C), then fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Step 5: Combine sauce ingredients in a saucepan and heat until sugar dissolves.
  6. Step 6: Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  7. Step 7: Toss fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 140mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers separately. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.

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