Chinese Lemon Chicken is a delicious and crispy chicken dish coated in a tangy and sweet lemon sauce. This dish combines the perfect balance of citrusy freshness and savory flavors, making it a favorite in Chinese cuisine. It is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy, golden-brown chicken coated in a flavorful lemon sauce
A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors
Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
Great for meal prep and reheating
Kid-friendly and loved by all ages
A homemade alternative to takeout

Chinese Lemon Chicken 10 Chinese Lemon Chicken is a delicious and crispy chicken dish coated in a tangy and sweet lemon sauce. This dish combines the perfect balance of citrusy freshness and savory flavors, making it a favorite in Chinese cuisine. It is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Cornstarch
All-purpose flour
Egg
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Lemon zest
Sugar
Chicken broth
Soy sauce
Rice vinegar
Honey
Ginger, grated
Garlic, minced
Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water)
Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Beat the egg in a separate bowl.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat it with the flour mixture.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside.
In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer.
Mix the cornstarch slurry and gradually add it to the sauce, stirring until thickened.
Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
Air Fryer Version: Coat the chicken lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower bites.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

Double-coating the chicken with cornstarch and flour ensures a crispy texture. Fry in hot oil for the best results.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work well in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, but store the fried chicken separately from the sauce to maintain crispiness.

What can I serve with Chinese Lemon Chicken?

It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How can I reduce the sweetness of the sauce?

Reduce the amount of sugar and honey to suit your taste.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The balance of flavors makes it a favorite among children.

Can I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the cornstarch slurry amount slightly for a thicker consistency.

Can I make this dish oil-free?

Use the baked or air fryer method instead of frying.

Can I use this sauce for other proteins?

Yes! This lemon sauce works great with shrimp, tofu, or even pork.

Conclusion

Chinese Lemon Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings the perfect blend of crispy texture and zesty lemon flavor. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry it, this dish is a great alternative to takeout and is easy to make at home. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in your kitchen!