Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Chinese Lemon Chicken features crispy, golden-brown battered chicken thighs tossed in a sweet and tangy lemon sauce. A perfect homemade alternative to takeout, with all the flavor and none of the wait!


Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, cut into cubes

1 tbsp soy sauce

2 tbsp cornstarch (for marinade)

⅓ cup lemon juice

3 tbsp sugar

½ cup water

2 tsp cornstarch (for sauce)

1 tsp lemon zest

¼ cup flour

½ cup cornstarch (for batter)

Oil for frying


Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, add the chicken cubes, soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Toss to coat, then cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, mix together the lemon juice, sugar, water, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

After the chicken has marinated, add the flour and ½ cup of cornstarch to the chicken. Toss to coat the chicken pieces evenly.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a pot, heat oil about 3 inches deep over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch.

Once fried, transfer the chicken pieces to a skillet or pan.

Step 5: Coat with the Sauce

Turn off the oil and set the skillet with the fried chicken on medium-high heat.

Add the prepared lemon sauce to the skillet and toss the chicken in the sauce for just a few seconds until it thickens.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the crispy lemon chicken immediately with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Avoid Overcrowding the Pot: Fry the chicken in batches to prevent the pieces from sticking together and to keep the oil temperature consistent.

Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or tartness of the sauce by adding more sugar or lemon juice, depending on your preference.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Marinate Time:: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes