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+ servings
Chinese Lemon Chicken

Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken: A Homemade Flavor Explosion

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Chinese Lemon Chicken, a crispy and tender dish bursting with zesty brightness.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner choice.
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce Opt for low-sodium for a healthier alternative.
For the Coating
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can be a gluten-free substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Flour Gluten-free flour can replace if desired.
  • Oil as needed Oil for Frying Vegetable oil is recommended.
For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Fresh lemon juice is best.
  • 1/4 cup Sugar Honey can be used as a natural alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Water Use to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Feel free to swap with lime zest.

Equipment

  • Deep pot
  • skillet
  • Bowls

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Cover and let it marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: Mix lemon juice, sugar, water, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Toss the marinated chicken with flour and the remaining cornstarch to ensure an even coating.
  4. Heat the Oil: In a deep pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
  5. Combine and Cook: Transfer the fried chicken to a skillet, pour in the sauce, and cook briefly until the sauce thickens.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately over steamed rice and veggies.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Garnish with fresh chopped scallions for an added pop of flavor. Marinate longer for enhanced flavor richness and avoid overcrowding the frying pot.

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