Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken (42 Minutes)

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There’s something utterly delightful about the allure of sticky Chinese lemon chicken. Think of tender chicken bites enveloped in a zesty lemon glaze, which hits just the right balance between sweet and tangy. Imagine the burst of flavor in every bite and the subtle kick of freshness with a sprinkle of green onions on top. If you’re seeking a dish that offers both comfort and a tantalizing twist, this recipe is your answer!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 32 minutes
  • Total Time: 42 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for the sauce thickening)
  • 2 green onions, finely sliced for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish if desired

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in cornstarch, then dip into the beaten eggs.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Mix the water and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch together and pour into the sauce. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens.
  5. Add the fried chicken into the saucepan and toss to coat.
  6. Plate the chicken, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve.

Notes

Achieving that perfect sticky glaze is easier than you might think, and the key lies in the balance of the lemon and sugar. For a complete meal, consider serving this dish over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside some stir-fried vegetables. If you’re in the mood for some heat, toss in a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce. To truly elevate the experience, pair this dish with a light white wine or a cold lager. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: >1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

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