If you’re craving a tangy and crispy Asian-inspired dish, Chinese Lemon Chicken is the perfect recipe for you. This dish features tender, golden-fried chicken coated in a sweet and tangy lemon sauce, making it an irresistible combination of crispy and juicy goodness. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, it’s a restaurant-quality meal you can make right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Crispy & Juicy – The perfect contrast of crunchy chicken and succulent meat.
- Zesty Lemon Sauce – A refreshing balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Better Than Takeout – Fresh, homemade, and healthier than fast food!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup water
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Lemon Sauce:
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- ¼ cup honey (or sugar)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp ginger (grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- Lemon slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg with water.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat evenly in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
2. Make the Lemon Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add chicken broth and sesame oil. Let it cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
3. Coat & Serve
- Toss the crispy chicken in the lemon sauce until fully coated.
- Serve over steamed rice and garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and lemon slices.
Tips for the Best Chinese Lemon Chicken
- Use Chicken Thighs – They stay juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness – Fry once, let cool, then fry again for ultimate crunch.
- Balance the Sweetness – Adjust honey or sugar to taste for the perfect sweet-tart balance.
What to Serve with Chinese Lemon Chicken
- Steamed White Rice – The perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables – Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas complement the dish.
- Egg Rolls or Dumplings – A great appetizer to complete your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Cook the coated chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then, toss it in the sauce.
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works well, but thighs are juicier. If using breast meat, don’t overcook it to keep it tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to keep the chicken crispy.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Lemon Chicken recipe brings together the perfect mix of crispy, juicy, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a weekend treat, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today, and enjoy a homemade version of a classic takeout favorite!
