Chinese lemon chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a vibrant, tangy sauce. The crispiness of the chicken pairs perfectly with the refreshing lemon flavor, making it a favorite for many. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dish captures the essence of Chinese cuisine while bringing a twist that your taste buds will love.
Why We Love This Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
This Chinese lemon chicken recipe stands out due to its delicious balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The bright and zesty taste of lemon shines through, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Fans of Chinese cuisine appreciate how simple ingredients can lead to such a flavorful meal. The tender chicken coated in a light, crispy batter gives you that satisfying crunch with every bite. Plus, the quick preparation means you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home. You can also adjust the level of sweetness and tanginess according to your preferences, making it a versatile recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Directions
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch together. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
- Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg, then into the flour mixture, coating well.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken to the pan in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- In a separate saucepan, combine chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-6 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the fried chicken pieces into the lemon sauce, stirring gently to coat.
- Allow everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
How to Serve Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
When it comes to serving Chinese lemon chicken, presentation plays a vital role in enhancing the dining experience. You can serve it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or alongside some vibrant stir-fried vegetables for a colorful plate. Consider using jasmine rice or white rice to soak up that delightful lemon sauce, providing a perfect balance to the crispy chicken. Adding a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas brightens up the plate and adds extra nutrition.
Don’t forget about garnishing! Freshly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds can elevate the dish visually and add a bit of extra flavor. Serving this dish with fortune cookies or a light dessert, like fruit salad, can round out a great meal. You could also offer a small bowl of extra lemon sauce on the side for those who love an extra tangy kick. The combination of flavors, textures, and colors will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Expert Tips for Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
To elevate your Chinese lemon chicken to the next level, consider a few expert tips. First, marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce and cornstarch for about 30 minutes before coating them. This step enhances flavor and helps the batter stick better for crispier results.
Additionally, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. This prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy. Test with a small piece of batter; if it sizzles and rises to the top, your oil is ready.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry, and add it to your sauce while it simmers. This will give you that desired syrupy texture that coats the chicken beautifully.
Finally, adjust the sweetness of the lemon sauce according to your taste. If you want more tang, simply add more lemon juice. For sweetness, increase the sugar gradually. Experimenting with these variations will help you craft a dish that perfectly suits your palate.
How to Store Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your Chinese lemon chicken, storing them properly will ensure you can savor the dish again later. Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it. Transfer it to an airtight container, ensuring it is sealed tightly to maintain its freshness.
You can keep the dish in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid using the microwave for reheating, as it can make the chicken rubbery and lessen the crispy texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it can last for up to two months. To reheat it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in a pan.
Variations of Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
You can easily switch things up with this Chinese lemon chicken recipe to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Adapting it to include vegetables is a great option. For instance, you can add bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas during the simmering process. This not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish.
If you prefer a spicy kick, consider incorporating some chili flakes or sauce into the lemon sauce. This will introduce an exciting layer of heat that pairs well with the tanginess of the lemon.
For a lighter version, try baking the chicken instead of frying. Toss the coated chicken pieces onto a baking sheet and spray lightly with oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
You can also experiment with various citrus fruits. Replace some lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter taste or add lime juice for an extra zing. Changing the citrus not only alters the flavor profile but also keeps the dish fresh and exciting every time you prepare it.
FAQ about Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
What makes this Chinese lemon chicken recipe special?
This Chinese lemon chicken recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, giving you a delightful dish that pairs crispy chicken with a bright lemon sauce.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and ensuring that your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.
How can I adjust the sweetness in the lemon sauce?
You can adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar you add to the sauce. Taste as you go for the best results.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I make this Chinese lemon chicken recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine before reheating to keep the chicken crispy.
Chinese Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
For the Lemon Sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 large zest of 1 lemon
- 2 large juice of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnishing
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch together. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
Cooking
- Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg, then into the flour mixture, coating well.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken to the pan in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd.
- Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- In a separate saucepan, combine chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-6 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the fried chicken pieces into the lemon sauce, stirring gently to coat.
- Allow everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!