Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken for a Flavor-Packed Dinner

Enjoy homemade Chinese Lemon Chicken, a crispy, tangy dish that's gluten-free adaptable and perfect for dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 12

Resting Time 3

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound Chicken Breast Cut into 1-inch pieces; can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier result
1 Egg Binds cornstarch to chicken for a crispy texture; no direct substitutions recommended

For the Sauce

1 cup Chicken Broth Opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice
1 large Lemon Juice Using juice from one large lemon
2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Can replace with apple cider vinegar or omit for a milder taste
1 tablespoon Shaoxing Wine Optional; can be replaced with dry sherry or omitted for gluten-free
1 tablespoon Sugar Adjust according to your preference
1 cup Cornstarch Essential for creating a crispy coating on chicken and thickening the sauce; no substitutes
to taste Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste

For Cooking

½ inch Vegetable Oil Used for frying and sautéing; can use canola or peanut oil for different flavor profiles
1 tablespoon Minced Ginger Adds aromatic heat and depth to the sauce; ground ginger may be used in a pinch

For Garnish

2 tablespoons Green Onions Adds freshness and visual appeal; can skip or substitute with chives if necessary

Equipment

large skillet
Mixing Bowl

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, rice vinegar, and sugar. Whisk in cornstarch and salt, then set aside.
Marinate chicken with vegetable oil and salt for 15 minutes.
Add beaten egg to chicken, then stir in cornstarch until coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet. Fry chicken in a single layer for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Flip chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes until crispy; transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
Sauté green onions and minced ginger in the skillet for 30 seconds.
Pour sauce into skillet and simmer until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Add chicken back to skillet, toss to coat, and serve immediately garnished with green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, ensure the chicken is evenly coated with cornstarch and fry in batches to prevent steaming.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!