Description
Crispy shredded chicken coated in a sweet and tangy lemon sauce with a delightful citrus flavor. This Chinese lemon shredded chicken recipe delivers a perfect balance of crunchy texture and citrusy zest, making it a favorite takeout-style dish that’s simple to prepare at home. Ideal for serving over rice or with stir-fried vegetables, it brings vibrant flavors and satisfying crispiness to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
Lemon Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Garnish
- Lemon slices
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure proper frying temperature for a crispy finish.
- Prepare the chicken: Toss the cooked and shredded chicken with beaten eggs, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Then dredge the chicken thoroughly in cornstarch for a crisp outer layer.
- Fry the chicken: Fry the chicken in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden and crispy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the lemon sauce: In a saucepan, combine chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, honey, sugar, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) into the simmering sauce. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens to a smooth consistency.
- Add zest and combine: Stir in lemon zest for extra citrus aroma. Toss the crispy fried chicken in the lemon sauce until each piece is evenly coated and glossy.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with lemon slices and sliced green onions before serving. Serve immediately to maintain the chicken’s crispiness.
Notes
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispiness of the fried chicken.
- Adjust the sweetness to taste by reducing or increasing the amount of sugar used in the sauce.
- This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the fryer for even cooking and optimal crispiness.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese