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Chinese Lemon Chicken – Crispy, Tangy Takeout Favorite at Home

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Crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sticky, citrusy lemon glaze — this Chinese Lemon Chicken is a takeout classic made fresh at home.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed

  • 1 egg

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • Oil for frying

  • Salt, to taste

For the Lemon Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp lemon zest

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)

Instructions

  • Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes. Pat dry.

  • Mix egg, cornstarch, and flour in a bowl. Coat chicken thoroughly.

  • Heat oil in a skillet or wok to 350°F. Fry chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Drain.

  • In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, zest, sugar, soy sauce, and broth. Simmer.

  • Add cornstarch slurry, stir until sauce thickens.

  • Toss crispy chicken with sauce. Serve hot with rice.

Notes

Double-fry for extra crispiness. Add chili flakes for heat. Great with jasmine rice and stir-fried veggies.