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+ servings
Chinese Lemon Chicken

Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken You Can't Resist Making at Home

Crispy and zesty, this Chinese Lemon Chicken is the ultimate answer to busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 inch vegetable oil for frying can use canola or peanut oil
  • 2 whole egg whites substitute with a flax egg for vegan option
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts consider thighs for juicier meat
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch potato starch works as gluten-free alternative
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour substitute with gluten-free flour if needed
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt use in moderation if on a low-sodium diet
  • 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper adjust or omit based on preference
For the Sauce
  • 0.75 cup low sodium chicken broth vegetable broth for vegetarian version
  • 0.33 cup fresh lemon juice fresh juice is recommended
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar can reduce or replace with honey
  • 2 tablespoons honey maple syrup works as vegan substitute
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest use more for pronounced flavor
  • 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce tamari for gluten-free version
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for slurry) mix well with water before adding
  • 2 tablespoons water (for slurry) creates slurry consistency
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional but recommended
For Garnishing
  • 1 whole lemon slices
  • 1 bunch thinly sliced green onions
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds optional

Equipment

  • large skillet or wok
  • deep-frying thermometer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Paper towels
  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, until it reaches 350°F and shimmers.
  2. In a bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy, then add the boneless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Once your oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the skillet. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown.
  5. In a medium saucepan, combine the low sodium chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, honey, lemon zest, and low sodium soy sauce.
  6. While the sauce simmers, prepare the cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water.
  7. Remove the thickened sauce from heat and stir in the teaspoon of sesame oil.
  8. Gently toss the warm, fried chicken pieces in the flavorful lemon sauce until each piece is well-coated.
  9. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and garnish with lemon slices, thinly sliced green onions, and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in an air fryer or skillet.

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