Description
This Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken recipe delivers tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a light, crunchy batter and tossed in a tangy, glossy lemon sauce with garlic and ginger. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal, this dish balances sweet, sour, and savory notes for an irresistible Chinese-inspired entrée.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Vegetable oil, for frying
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step ensures the batter adheres well and the chicken fries up crispy.
- Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, and salt. Beat the eggs separately, then combine them with the dry ingredients to form a slightly thick batter for coating.
- 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 carefully lower into the hot oil. Fry in batches until golden and crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Use paper towels to drain excess oil from the fried chicken.
- 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 into a glaze-like consistency.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the fried chicken pieces in the warm lemon sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the tangy glaze. Serve immediately to keep the chicken crispy and flavorful.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier results, but breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- Ensure the oil temperature is consistent at 350°F to achieve optimal crispiness without overcooking.
- The sauce can be adjusted in sweetness by increasing or decreasing the sugar or honey.
- Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
