What Is Lemon Chicken Chinese?

Lemon chicken Chinese is a tantalizing dish that has captivated taste buds around the world. It features tender chicken coated in a delectable lemon sauce, offering a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

Origins and History

The exact origins of lemon chicken Chinese remain shrouded in mystery. However, it is believed to have emerged in the Guangdong province of China during the late 19th century. The dish quickly gained popularity throughout the country and eventually made its way to Western cuisines.

Key Ingredients

The essential ingredients for lemon chicken Chinese include:

• Chicken: Typically boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are used.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the dish with its characteristic tang.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the acidity of the lemon juice and creates a sweet-tart sauce.
• Soy sauce: Adds depth of flavor and umami.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce and gives it a glossy sheen.
• Other seasonings: Garlic, ginger, green onions, and sesame oil add additional layers of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Lemon chicken Chinese is typically prepared using the following steps:

• Marinating: The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, lemon juice, and spices.
• Dredging: The chicken is dredged in cornstarch to create a crispy coating.
• Frying: The chicken is deep-fried until golden brown and cooked through.
• Sauce preparation: A sauce is made by combining lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, and other seasonings.
• Combining: The fried chicken is added to the sauce and tossed until evenly coated.

Variations

While the traditional lemon chicken Chinese recipe remains popular, several variations exist:

• Hunan Lemon Chicken: Incorporates chili peppers for a spicy kick.
• Szechuan Lemon Chicken: Features a more complex sauce with the addition of Sichuan peppercorns.
• Cantonese Lemon Chicken: Uses a lighter sauce with less sugar and a hint of fish sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon chicken Chinese is typically served with a side of rice or noodles. It can also be paired with steamed vegetables or a side salad.

Nutritional Information

A serving of lemon chicken Chinese (approximately 4 ounces) contains:

• Calories: 350-450
• Fat: 15-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
• Protein: 20-25 grams

Health Benefits

Lemon chicken Chinese offers several potential health benefits:

• Rich in protein: Provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
• Contains vitamin C: From lemon juice, supports immune function and antioxidant protection.
• Good source of fiber: If served with brown rice or vegetables.

Tips for Making Lemon Chicken Chinese at Home

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance tenderness.
• Fry the chicken in hot oil to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Adjust the amount of sugar in the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
• Serve the dish immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Information You Need to Know

Q: What is the best type of chicken to use for lemon chicken Chinese?
A: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: Can I make lemon chicken Chinese ahead of time?
A: The fried chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. However, the sauce should be prepared fresh.

Q: How can I reduce the calorie content of lemon chicken Chinese?
A: Use lean chicken breast, reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce, and serve with brown rice or vegetables instead of white rice.

Q: Can I make a vegetarian version of lemon chicken Chinese?
A: Yes, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh.