Chinese Lemon Chicken

Introduction

Chinese Lemon Chicken is a crispy, tangy, and sweet dish that combines tender chicken with a vibrant lemon sauce. The chicken is lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a luscious, zesty lemon sauce that packs a punch of citrus flavor. This dish is a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it a favorite in Chinese-American cuisine. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious takeout-style meal at home.

I first made this dish when I was craving something bright and flavorful, and it quickly became a family favorite. The crispy chicken paired with the bright, citrusy sauce creates an irresistible combination. The lemon sauce has just the right balance of tanginess and sweetness, with a hint of savory depth from soy sauce. For those who like a bit of heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a spicy kick.

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare, yet it tastes like something you’d order from your favorite takeout spot. The chicken cooks up perfectly crispy, and the sauce comes together quickly, making it a go-to for busy nights when you want something flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it with rice or sautéed vegetables, Chinese Lemon Chicken is sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family meals
• Chinese takeout cravings
• Special occasions
• Citrus and savory flavor lovers

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Lemon Chicken

Here’s why Chinese Lemon Chicken will become your new favorite:

• Crispy Chicken: The batter creates a crispy exterior while the chicken inside remains juicy and tender.
• Lemon Sauce: The bright and tangy lemon sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken, making each bite a burst of flavor.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together quickly and is much easier to prepare than you might think.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or tartness of the sauce to suit your taste, making it as tangy or sweet as you like.
• Takeout-Style: Enjoy a homemade version of your favorite Chinese takeout dish without the hassle of ordering in.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chinese Lemon Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Lemon Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1-2 teaspoons lemon zest (optional, for extra lemon flavor)
• 2 tablespoons water (to adjust sauce consistency)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this dish, providing a juicy and tender bite. Thighs can offer a richer flavor, while breasts are leaner.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch creates a crispy, light batter that helps the chicken stay crispy even after being tossed in the sauce.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest give the sauce its vibrant and tangy citrus flavor, which is the star of this dish.
• Honey/Sugar: Honey or sugar balances the tartness of the lemon, making the sauce both sweet and tangy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chinese Lemon Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk the beaten egg and soy sauce. Add the chicken pieces to the egg mixture, tossing to coat. In a separate bowl, place the cornstarch and season with a pinch of salt. Dredge the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in batches and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Make the Lemon Sauce:

4. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, honey or sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil (if using), ginger, lemon zest, and water. Stir until well combined and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the simmering sauce and stir until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

6. Toss the Chicken in Sauce: Add the crispy chicken to the saucepan with the lemon sauce. Toss the chicken gently to coat it evenly with the sauce. Let it cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve:

7. Serve the Dish: Transfer the lemon chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with extra lemon zest, sesame seeds, or green onions if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice or vegetables.

How to Serve Chinese Lemon Chicken

Chinese Lemon Chicken is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Rice: Serve the lemon chicken over a bed of steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice for a complete meal.
• With Vegetables: Pair with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, snow peas, or bok choy for a balanced meal.
• In a Wrap: For a different take, serve the lemon chicken in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb alternative.
• With Noodles: Serve with a side of noodles, such as chow mein or rice noodles, for a hearty meal.

Additional Tips for Chinese Lemon Chicken

Here are some tips to ensure your Chinese Lemon Chicken is perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is key to a vibrant and tangy sauce. Bottled lemon juice won’t have the same flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches to ensure the chicken gets crispy on all sides.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or sugar. For a tangier sauce, increase the lemon juice.
• Keep the Chicken Crispy: To keep the chicken crispy after tossing in the sauce, you can serve the sauce on the side and dip the chicken as you eat.

Recipe Variations for Chinese Lemon Chicken

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chinese Lemon Chicken:

• Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
• Orange Chicken: Swap the lemon juice for fresh orange juice for a sweet citrus twist.
• Honey Ginger Lemon Chicken: Add extra grated fresh ginger to the sauce for a bolder flavor.
• Lemon Chicken with Cashews: Toss in roasted cashews with the chicken for added crunch and flavor.
• Lemon Chicken with Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli to the dish for a complete and healthy meal.
• Crispy Lemon Chicken with Almonds: Garnish the dish with slivered almonds for an extra layer of crunch.
• Lemon Chicken with Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the dish for an earthy flavor that complements the lemon sauce.
• Baked Lemon Chicken: Bake the battered chicken pieces in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying them.
• Lemon Chicken with Bell Peppers: Add thinly sliced bell peppers to the pan for a colorful and crunchy addition.
• Lemon Chicken with Green Beans: Stir-fry the lemon chicken with fresh green beans for a delightful veggie-packed meal.

Freezing and Storage for Chinese Lemon Chicken

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked lemon chicken for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Storage: Store leftover lemon chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra lemon juice or water to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

Special Equipment for Chinese Lemon Chicken

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chinese Lemon Chicken easier:

• Skillet or Wok: A large, non-stick skillet or wok is ideal for frying the chicken.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip and remove the chicken from the pan.
• Small Saucepan: A small saucepan is perfect for preparing the lemon sauce.
• Bowl for Coating: A bowl for coating the chicken in the egg and cornstarch mixture.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate measurements of the sauce ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chinese Lemon Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and provide a richer flavor.
2. Can I make this dish spicier?
   Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a bit of chili paste to the sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
   Fresh lemon juice will give a better flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
   It’s best to cook the chicken fresh for the crispiest texture, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to make this dish gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Chinese Lemon Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines crispy chicken with a tangy, citrusy lemon sauce. The delicate balance of flavors—tart lemon, savory chicken, and a hint of sweetness—makes it a crowd-pleaser. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout meal for special occasions. The crispy chicken coated in the zesty lemon sauce creates a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness in every bite.

Whether you’re serving it to your family or guests, Chinese Lemon Chicken will surely be a hit with its bold, refreshing flavor and satisfying texture.

I’d love to see how your Chinese Lemon Chicken turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!