Elevate your dinner with this zesty Chinese lemon chicken recipe! Featuring tender, crispy chicken cubes tossed in a tangy and sweet lemon sauce, this dish is both flavorful and refreshing. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious and vibrant Chinese lemon chicken that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into cubes
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Allow it to soak and absorb the flavors for a minimum of 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Lemon Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, sugar, water, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and lemon zest. Stir until the cornstarch is dissolved. Set the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and develops a glossy sheen.
- Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix the flour and 1/2 cup of cornstarch. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, gently add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy, approximately 5-6 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to move the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the fried chicken pieces with the prepared lemon sauce until the chicken is well coated.
- Serve: Transfer the lemon chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with additional lemon zest or green onions if desired. Enjoy right away with a side of steamed rice or your favorite accompaniment.
Conclusion:
This zesty Chinese lemon chicken is a delightful combination of crispy chicken and a tangy lemon sauce, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. The balance of sweet and sour flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy this vibrant and delicious lemon chicken with your loved ones!