Lemon Chicken Chinese – Learn How To Make It Perfectly In Just 30 Minutes!

Lemon chicken, a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant citrus flavors and crispy texture. If you’re craving this culinary masterpiece, follow our comprehensive guide to master the art of making lemon chicken Chinese at home.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Batter:

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold water

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, water, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually whisk in the cold water until a smooth batter forms.

4. Coat the Chicken: Dip the marinated chicken into the batter, coating it completely.

5. Fry the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Carefully drop the battered chicken into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Drain and Toss: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Transfer the chicken to a large bowl.

7. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the fried chicken. Toss to coat evenly.

8. Serve: Garnish with fresh lemon slices and cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice or noodles.

Tips:

• For a more flavorful chicken, marinate it overnight.
• To achieve a crispy batter, use cold water when making the batter and fry the chicken in hot oil.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice and honey to your taste preferences.
• Serve the lemon chicken with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Variations:

• Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of Sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken: Replace the honey in the sauce with 1/4 cup of honey garlic sauce.
• Orange Lemon Chicken: Substitute the lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter and tangier flavor.

Health Benefits of Lemon Chicken Chinese:

• Rich in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Contains Vitamin C: Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes skin health.
• Low in Calories: Lemon chicken is relatively low in calories, making it a healthier option for a Chinese meal.

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of making lemon chicken Chinese is a culinary triumph that will impress your family and friends. Follow our step-by-step guide, experiment with variations, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this beloved dish. Whether you serve it as a main course or an appetizer, lemon chicken Chinese is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating it.

Q: What can I substitute for cornstarch in the batter?
A: You can use all-purpose flour or rice flour as a substitute for cornstarch.

Q: How long can I store leftover lemon chicken?
A: Leftover lemon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I reheat the lemon chicken?
A: Yes, you can reheat the lemon chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Q: What are some good sides to serve with lemon chicken?
A: Rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables are all excellent sides to serve with lemon chicken.