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Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 81 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4-4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a light, crunchy batter, fried to golden perfection, and tossed in a tangy, glossy lemon sauce. Perfectly balancing sweet, sour, and savory flavors, this dish is an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare and ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken and Batter

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or rice flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Lemon Sauce

  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 3 tablespoons sugar or honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Other

  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step ensures the batter adheres properly and results in a crispier fried exterior.
  2. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, and salt. Beat the eggs separately, then combine with the dry ingredients to form a slightly thick batter ready for coating the chicken pieces.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 350°F (175°C). Dip each chicken piece into the batter, then gently lower it into the hot oil. Fry the chicken in batches for about 5-6 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  4. Prepare the Lemon Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine fresh lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Heat gently while stirring until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly to a glaze-like consistency.
  5. Toss and Serve: Toss the crispy fried chicken pieces in the warm lemon sauce so they are evenly coated with the tangy glaze. Serve immediately to maintain the chicken’s crispiness and enjoy your flavorful meal.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour.
  • Ensure the oil temperature is maintained at 350°F to keep the chicken crispy.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best tangy flavor in the sauce.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
  • Serve this dish immediately to retain the crispy texture of the chicken.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/crispy-chinese-lemon-chicken-recipe-2/