Chinese Lemon Chicken

Chinese Lemon Chicken is a bright, tangy, and flavorful dish that features tender, crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and citrusy lemon sauce. This dish is an ideal combination of crunchy fried chicken and a vibrant, refreshing sauce that packs a punch. A popular choice at Chinese restaurants, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home and will surely impress your family or guests. The lemon sauce brings a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making every bite irresistible. Whether served over steamed rice or as part of a larger spread, this dish will be a hit every time.

The crispy chicken, coupled with the tangy lemon glaze, creates a perfect harmony of flavors. The subtle hint of sesame seeds and green onions adds texture and brightness to the dish, completing this amazing recipe. A delightful option for any weeknight dinner or special occasion, Chinese Lemon Chicken is both simple to make and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Tender – The chicken pieces are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, creating a perfect texture contrast.
2. Flavorful Lemon Sauce – The sweet and tangy lemon sauce elevates the dish, giving it a refreshing citrus burst.
3. Quick and Easy – This recipe comes together quickly and requires only basic ingredients that are easy to find.
4. Customizable – You can adjust the sweetness and tartness of the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep – This dish stores well, making it an excellent option for preparing ahead of time for busy weeks.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• Eggs (lightly beaten)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)

For the Lemon Sauce

• Lemon juice
• Sugar
• Water
• Sesame seeds

For Garnish

• Sliced green onions
• Grated lemon zest

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the dish for extra color and flavor.
• Spicy Lemon Chicken: If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili to the sauce.
• Honey Lemon Chicken: Swap out some of the sugar for honey for a more natural sweetness and a touch of floral flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Baked Version: For a lighter version, bake the chicken pieces in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until crispy instead of frying.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste. In a bowl, lightly beat the eggs.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs and then coat in the flour-cornstarch mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they do not overcrowd the pan. Fry until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce has thickened slightly (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 5: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

Add the crispy chicken to the saucepan and toss to coat the chicken evenly with the lemon sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and grated lemon zest. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Double the Sauce: If you prefer more sauce, simply double the lemon sauce ingredients to ensure every piece of chicken is well-coated.
• Frying Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the chicken (around 350°F or 175°C) to ensure a crispy texture.
• Rest After Frying: Let the chicken rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil, which helps maintain the crispiness.
• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest will provide the best flavor for the sauce.

How to Serve

Chinese Lemon Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even a side of sautéed vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a light cucumber salad or a spring roll for a well-rounded meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Freezing

While the crispy chicken can be frozen, the lemon sauce may lose its texture upon reheating. If you wish to freeze, store the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil to help restore the crispiness. Heat the sauce separately and toss the chicken in the sauce before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a more flavorful and juicy option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.

2. Can I make the lemon sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the lemon sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Is it necessary to fry the chicken?

Frying the chicken helps achieve the crispy texture, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the chicken instead.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To make the sauce thicker, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) to the simmering sauce.

5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or snow peas can be added for extra texture and flavor. Add them to the sauce or cook them alongside the chicken.

6. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

7. Can I use a different citrus for the sauce?

Yes, you can substitute lime or orange juice for the lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.

8. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming soggy?

To maintain the crispiness, toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving, not while it’s sitting.

9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour and cornstarch in place of regular flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

10. Can I serve this dish with noodles instead of rice?

Absolutely! Chinese Lemon Chicken also goes great with noodles, especially chow mein or lo mein.

Conclusion

Chinese Lemon Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings a fresh, zesty flavor to your dinner table. With its crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy, sweet lemon sauce, it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to please everyone. Make it your own by adjusting the sauce or adding vegetables, and enjoy a homemade version of this beloved Chinese takeout classic!

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