Delicious Chinese Lemon Chicken in 35 Minutes

Chinese Lemon Chicken is a vibrant dish featuring crispy chicken pieces enveloped in a sweet and tangy lemon glaze. This delightful recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. If you’re looking for a meal that’s not just quick but also bursting with flavor, this is the one. The combination of textures and flavors will take your taste buds on a delicious journey that rivals any takeout!

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Lemon Chicken

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Chinese Lemon Chicken recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for those hectic evenings. Second, the crispy chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience. Third, it’s a healthier alternative to takeout, packed with protein and fresh ingredients. Fourth, you can customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, making it versatile. Fifth, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, this dish is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or family gatherings!

Ingredients for Chinese Lemon Chicken

Gather these items:

• Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 inch deep)
• 2 egg whites
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Lemon slices (optional garnish)
• Thinly sliced green onions (optional garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

How to Make Chinese Lemon Chicken Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok to 350°F.
2. Step 2: Whisk egg whites until frothy. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
3. Step 3: Mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the egg-coated chicken in the mixture and shake off excess.
4. Step 4: Fry chicken in batches for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Step 5: Combine chicken broth, lemon juice, sugar, honey, lemon zest, and soy sauce in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Step 6: Mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Stir into the simmering sauce and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat, stir in sesame oil, toss chicken in the sauce until coated, and garnish before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Chinese Lemon Chicken

Keep these in mind:

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that crispy texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; cook in batches for even cooking.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon juice and honey for 30 minutes before cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Chinese Lemon Chicken

This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can enhance it further. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also add stir-fried vegetables for a delightful crunch and color. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a Lemon Chicken Stir Fry or serve it alongside a refreshing salad!

How to Store and Reheat Chinese Lemon Chicken

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. You can also use the microwave, but the chicken may lose some of its crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Lemon Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Chinese Lemon Chicken?

The secret lies in the frying technique and the balance of sweet and tangy flavors in the sauce. Using fresh lemon juice and high-quality chicken broth elevates the dish. Lemons are known for their health benefits, which can enhance your dish.

Can I make Chinese Lemon Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. However, for the best texture, fry the chicken just before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chinese Lemon Chicken?

To avoid soggy chicken, ensure the oil is hot before frying, and do not overcrowd the pan. This will help achieve that crispy finish.

Variations of Chinese Lemon Chicken You Can Try

There are several delicious variations to explore! You can make a Sweet and Sour Lemon Chicken by adding pineapple chunks. For a heartier option, consider incorporating broccoli or bell peppers to create Lemon Chicken with Vegetables. Additionally, try a lemon chicken stir fry for a quick and easy weeknight meal!

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category or try making spaghetti with garlic and oil for a quick meal!

Delicious Chinese Lemon Chicken in 35 Minutes

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Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken made with golden fried chicken pieces tossed in a bright, sweet and tangy lemon glaze. Ready in just 35 minutes and better than takeout.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 inch deep)
• 2 egg whites
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Lemon slices (optional garnish)
• Thinly sliced green onions (optional garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok to 350°F.
2. Whisk egg whites until frothy. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
3. Mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the egg-coated chicken in the mixture and shake off excess.
4. Fry chicken in batches for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Combine chicken broth, lemon juice, sugar, honey, lemon zest, and soy sauce in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Stir into the simmering sauce and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
7. Remove from heat, stir in sesame oil, toss chicken in the sauce until coated, and garnish before serving.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 376
• Sugar: 19 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 39 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg