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+ servings
Lemon Chicken

Deliciously Crispy Lemon Chicken in Just 20 Minutes

This Lemon Chicken recipe is quick, crispy, and packed with tangy flavor, making it a family favorite for dinner.
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: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast or Thigh Cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch Plus extra for coating
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour works well
For Deep Frying
  • 2 inches Oil Vegetable or canola oil
For the Sauce
  • 3 tbsp Soy Sauce Use tamari for gluten-free
  • 2 tbsp Shaoxing Wine Optional, can replace with dry sherry
  • 1 cup Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed is best
  • 2 tbsp Sugar Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 cup Water To achieve desired sauce consistency
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
For Garnishing
  • 1 tbsp White Sesame Seeds Optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Wok or Deep Frying Pan
  • Shallow Dish
  • Small Saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting the chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking. In a bowl, mix the chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine (if using), and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated, then cover and let marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  2. While the chicken is marinating, combine cornstarch and all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. Stir well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly blended. Set it aside, ready for when the chicken is fully marinated.
  3. In a large wok or deep frying pan, pour in about two inches of vegetable or canola oil. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C).
  4. Once the oil is hot, carefully coat each marinated chicken piece in the cornstarch-flour mixture, then deep-fry in small batches, for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. While the chicken is frying, combine lemon juice, sugar, water, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Stir and bring to a boil, then keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Once the chicken is fried, transfer it to a large bowl and pour the hot lemon sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Enjoy fresh lemon chicken right after tossing in the sauce for the best texture and flavor!

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