When the sun is shining, and the days are warm, I crave a dish that combines brightness with comfort, and nothing fits the bill quite like my homemade Chinese Lemon Chicken. This recipe has become a staple not only in my kitchen but also at gatherings, where it never fails to impress.
Imagine biting into tender, golden chicken pieces, perfectly coated and accompanied by a zesty, sweet sauce that dances on your palate. The delightful combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of ginger adds a refreshing twist that takes traditional fried chicken to a whole new level.
What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a full-flavored meal that feels special but is easy enough for any weeknight. The vibrant flavors and the crunch of the chicken make it a fantastic choice for those looking to shake off the monotony of fast food. Let’s dive in and bring a touch of the East back to your dinner table!
Why You'll Love This Chinese Lemon Chicken
- This Chinese Lemon Chicken is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to serve a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The bright and zesty flavors will leave your taste buds dancing with delight as the sweet sauce perfectly complements the crispy chicken.
- With its versatility, you can pair this dish with rice, noodles, or vegetables, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.
- Its stunning visual appeal, with golden chicken and vibrant sauce, will impress your guests and family alike.
Chinese Lemon Chicken Ingredients
Get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade Chinese Lemon Chicken experience!
For the Chicken
• 500 g chicken breast – select fresh, boneless chicken for tender bites.
• 2 eggs – these help create a light and crispy batter.
• Salt – to taste, enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Pepper – to taste, adds a touch of warmth to the dish.
For the Batter
• 0.5 cup cornstarch – ensures a remarkable crunch after frying.
• 0.25 cup all-purpose flour – helps bind the batter, making it evenly coat the chicken.
For the Sauce
• 0.33 cup lemon juice – fresh juice brightens the dish and provides the signature tangy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest – enhances the lemony aroma for an extra zest kick.
• 0.5 cup sugar – balances the acidity, creating that delightful sweet-sour sauce.
• 0.5 cup chicken stock – adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – introduces a hint of umami for complexity.
• 1 teaspoon ginger – provides a warm, slightly spicy note to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic – adds aromatic goodness that pairs perfectly with the lemon flavors.
With these ingredients at hand, you're well on your way to creating a stunning plate of Chinese Lemon Chicken that will brighten up any meal!
How to Make Chinese Lemon Chicken
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Season chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper. This step allows your chicken to soak up delicious flavors, setting the base for your delightful dish.
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Mix eggs, cornstarch, and flour to form a batter. Blend until smooth, creating a light and crispy coating that will give your chicken that satisfying crunch when fried.
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Coat chicken evenly in the batter. Ensure all pieces are fully covered—this helps create a cohesive crust that locks in moisture during frying.
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Fry chicken until golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping that delightful crunch intact.
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Simmer lemon juice, zest, sugar, stock, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow these flavors to meld together until the mixture is fragrant and slightly reduced, about 5 minutes.
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Thicken sauce with a cornstarch slurry. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water, whisk into the sauce, and continue cooking until it thickens to your desired consistency.
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Toss chicken with sauce or drizzle on top before serving. This adds a delicious, glossy finish, making your dish as beautiful as it is tasty.
Optional: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chinese Lemon Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to personalize your dish and add a little extra excitement to your plate!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute cornstarch for a gluten-free flour blend. This keeps the crispiness while making it friendly for gluten-sensitive diners.
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Citrus Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of lime juice in addition to the lemon juice for a zesty flavor boost that adds complexity to the sauce.
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Honey-Sweetened: Replace sugar with honey for a natural sweetness and a touch of floral flavor that harmonizes delightfully with the lemon.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha in the sauce to elevate the heat level, perfect for those who crave a little spice.
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Veggie Delight: Throw in some sliced bell peppers or snap peas while simmering the sauce for a colorful, nutritious addition that enhances both flavor and texture.
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Baked Version: Skip the frying and coat the chicken pieces with the batter, then bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for a healthier take that’s still delectable.
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Sesame Flavor: Drizzle toasted sesame oil into the sauce for a rich, nutty aroma that complements the freshness of the lemon beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end of cooking for a fresh, aromatic twist that brightens each bite.
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Lemon Chicken
Room Temperature: Chinese Lemon Chicken can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but it's best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate flavor and crispiness.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken crispy, reheat gently in the oven instead of the microwave.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken (plain, without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To revive that delightful crunch, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Add fresh sauce for an extra zing!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Chinese Lemon Chicken ahead of time can save you precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of salt, pepper, and lemon juice up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you're ready to cook, simply coat the marinated chicken in the batter and fry until golden. Finish by warming the prepped sauce, tossing it with the crisp chicken, and voilà—dinner is served, bringing restaurant-quality flavor right to your table with minimal fuss!
What to Serve with Chinese Lemon Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this zesty dish with comforting sides and refreshing flavors.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs the vibrant lemon sauce, making every bite a delightful balance of tastes.
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Sesame Noodles: The nutty-soy flavor of sesame noodles offers a lovely contrast to the sweet tang of the chicken.
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Sautéed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a fresh crunch and a healthy touch that complements the dish's richness.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp, tangy cucumber salad provides a refreshing crunch that lightens each mouthful of flavor-packed chicken.
For a harmonious meal, think about pairing your chicken with vibrant options that enhance the overall dining experience.
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Chilled Green Tea: The subtle earthy notes of green tea refresh the palate and harmonize beautifully with the dish's citrus notes.
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Lemon Sorbet: End on a bright note with a tangy lemon sorbet, offering a sweet yet refreshing conclusion to your meal.
With these delightful pairings, your Chinese Lemon Chicken will shine as the centerpiece of a magnificent and balanced meal!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Chinese Lemon Chicken, ensure you season your chicken pieces adequately with salt and pepper to maximize flavor.
- For an extra crispy batter, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken, as this helps achieve that golden crunch we all love.
- Also, prevent the batter from becoming too thick by blending your cornstarch, flour, and eggs until smooth, ensuring even coating.
- Keep an eye on the sauce while it simmers; letting it reduce too much can make it overly thick and syrupy, so aim for a balanced consistency.
Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe lemons for the sauce?
Absolutely! Look for lemons that are bright yellow and slightly heavy for their size—they should feel firm but give a little when you press them. Avoid lemons with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as they may be overripe or dry inside.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Chinese Lemon Chicken?
To keep your Chinese Lemon Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating them gently in the oven to maintain the crispy texture, rather than using a microwave, which can make the chicken soggy.
Can I freeze Chinese Lemon Chicken?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely freeze Chinese Lemon Chicken. I suggest freezing the chicken without sauce in a single layer to prevent sticking, then transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It lasts up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How can I ensure my batter is crispy when frying?
Very good question! To achieve that desired crunch, make sure the oil is at the right temperature—around 350°F (175°C) is ideal. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; cook in batches if necessary. This ensures that the pieces fry evenly and stay crispy.
Is this dish suitable for people with gluten allergies?
For those with gluten allergies, you can easily modify this recipe! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch is pure. Moreover, check the soy sauce; opt for a gluten-free variety for a fully safe dish.
What can I do if the sauce becomes too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, no worries! Simply add a little more chicken stock or water while simmering, whisking it gently to achieve your desired consistency. Remember to adjust the seasoning slightly if you add more liquid to ensure that every bite remains flavorful!
Chinese Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper.
- Mix eggs, cornstarch, and flour to form a batter.
- Coat chicken evenly in the batter.
- Fry chicken until golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer lemon juice, zest, sugar, stock, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan.
- Thicken sauce with a cornstarch slurry.
- Toss chicken with sauce or drizzle on top before serving.
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