Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons water
- Oil for frying
Lemon Sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Directions
Chinese Lemon Chicken is a classic dish known for its crispy fried chicken pieces tossed in a vibrant, sweet-tart lemon sauce. The chicken is first coated in a light batter made from cornstarch and flour, then deep-fried to golden perfection. The sauce, made with fresh lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, and a touch of honey, adds a glossy, citrusy glaze that enhances the crispy texture. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, this dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, making it a delightful balance of crispy, juicy, and tangy flavors.
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for 1 serving (out of 3 servings) of the Chinese-style Lemon Chicken:
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Fat | 18-22g |
| Saturated Fat | 3-5g |
| Carbohydrates | 25-30g |
| Fiber | 1-2g |
| Sugar | 10-12g |
| Sodium | 600-800mg |
| Cholesterol | 60-70mg |
Note: These values may vary based on specific ingredients or portion sizes.
Steps
1 Done | Prepare the Chicken1. Cut the chicken into thin fillets or bite-sized pieces. 2. In a bowl, whisk the egg with 2 tablespoons of water. 3. In another bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and white pepper. 4. Dip the chicken into the egg mixture, then coat it with the flour mixture. |
2 Done | Fry the Chicken1. Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. 2. Fry the chicken pieces until golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side). 3. Remove and drain on a paper towel. |
3 Done | Make the Lemon Sauce1. In a pan, mix chicken broth, lemon juice, sugar, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. 2. Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). 3. Stir until the sauce thickens, then add the lemon zest. |
4 Done | Combine & Serve1. Toss the crispy chicken in the lemon sauce or drizzle it on top. 2. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. 3. Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. |
