Lemon Chicken
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
2 people
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Calories
280 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Chinese
Lemon Chicken
Description
The Lemon Chicken recipe begins with marinated chicken pieces, which are coated in a combination of cornstarch and all-purpose flour to help achieve a crisp exterior when deep-fried. The frying process renders a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender interior of the chicken. Once fried, the chicken is coated in a sauce made with fresh lemon juice, sugar, water, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt, which lightly glazes the pieces without overwhelming the crispiness.
The result is a dish with a vibrant lemon flavor that complements the crunch from the coating, balanced by the sweetness in the sauce. The chicken pieces are garnished with white sesame seeds that add a gentle nuttiness and a subtle crunch contrast. This preparation works well as a standalone entrée served with rice or vegetables for a complete meal. The approach of marinating and flour-dusting ensures the chicken retains moisture while boasting a delightful crispy texture beneath the lemon glaze.
The recipe notes suggest using a simple blend of cornstarch and all-purpose flour for the coating to keep the exterior crisp, and to apply the lemon sauce just enough to coat each piece lightly, preserving the crunch. This balance highlights the sweet and tart lemony notes paired with the aroma from the sesame seeds, providing a satisfying and textured eating experience.
Ingredients
- 10 oz (280g) chicken breast or thigh, cut into small pieces, skinless boneless
- 1/4 cup cornstarch sifted and combine well
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- neutral cooking oil for deep-frying, generic cooking oil
- 1/2 teaspoon white sesame
Marinade:
- 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon Shaoxing wine optional
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar or more to taste
- 5 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 pinch salt or to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with the Marinade for 30 minutes. Mix all the ingredients for the Sauce and set aside.
- Coat the marinated chicken with the corn starch and all-purpose flour mixture. Heat a wok with about two inches of oil. Once the oil is fully heated, deep-fry the chicken until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a dish lined with paper towels to soak up the excess oil.
- Add all the ingredients for the sauce to a small saucepan and bring it to a quick boil. Transfer the fried chicken to the sauce and stir to coat it well..
- Dish out, top with white sesame, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use a mix of cornstarch and all-purpose flour for the coating to achieve a crisp texture.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor and tenderize the meat.
- Fry chicken in hot oil until golden but avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispiness.
- Toss the fried chicken gently with the lemon sauce, coating lightly to keep the crunchy exterior intact.
- Sprinkle white sesame seeds over the top before serving to add a nutty aroma and texture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 280 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 2people | |
| Calories | 280kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 27g | 9% |
| Protein | 31g | 62% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 91mg | 30% |
| Sodium | 439mg | 18% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.