Chinese lemon chicken brings vibrant flavors to your table with a delightful combination of tangy citrus and tender chicken. This dish captivates your taste buds while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. The bright lemon sauce perfectly complements the crispy chicken, making it a favorite in many households.
Why We Love This Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
This Chinese lemon chicken recipe stands out for several reasons. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors keeps your palate excited. You can enjoy the crispiness of lightly battered chicken, which contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the lemon sauce. The dish is also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. You can whip it up in no time, ensuring a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Additionally, this recipe allows for flexibility. You can adjust the tartness by varying the amount of lemon juice or even incorporate extra vegetables just to suit your tastes. It’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it a staple in many kitchens.
Ingredients for Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water
- Green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Directions
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This allows for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a light, crispy coating for your chicken.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces partially for frying.
- Add the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, roughly 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels.
- In another pan, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat to allow the flavors to meld.
- Mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the boiling sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Once the sauce has thickened, toss the fried chicken in the sauce until coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
How to Serve Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
To serve your Chinese lemon chicken, lay a bed of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice on each plate. The rice absorbs the tangy sauce while providing a neutral base that complements the dish’s flavors. You can also add sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas, for a colorful and nutritious addition. If you prefer, serve the chicken over a bed of stir-fried vegetables for a more dynamic presentation. For an extra touch, drizzle some additional lemon sauce over the top right before serving to enhance the citrus flavor. Garnishing the dish with fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only adds aesthetic appeal but also brings a crunchy texture that contrasts with the chicken’s crispiness. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will surely impress while providing a satisfying and delicious meal.
Expert Tips for Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
To ensure that your Chinese lemon chicken turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to use fresh lemons for the best flavor. The zest from the lemon can also elevate the dish even more, so consider adding a teaspoon of zest to the sauce for a vibrant twist. When frying the chicken, maintain a consistent oil temperature. Too low, and the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Too high, and the coating may burn before the chicken is cooked. A kitchen thermometer can help you achieve perfect frying temperatures. For added crispiness, double-fry the chicken. Fry the first time until lightly golden, then let it rest for a few minutes and fry it again for a minute or two until golden brown. Additionally, feel free to experiment with the sauce by adding a dash of chili flakes for some heat or honey for extra sweetness. Finally, serve the chicken immediately after coating it in the sauce to preserve its crispy texture, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience.
How to Store Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
If you have leftovers, storing your Chinese lemon chicken properly will ensure that it stays fresh and delicious. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store this dish in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, try to keep the chicken’s coating crispy. The best way to do this is to use an oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If you have extra sauce, store it separately in a jar or container in the fridge. Reheat the sauce in a small pot over low heat before serving again with the chicken. It’s essential to note that freezing this dish is not recommended. The coating may become soggy once thawed and reheated.
Variations of Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
There are many ways to put a unique spin on your Chinese lemon chicken recipe. If you’re looking to switch things up, consider trying different proteins such as shrimp or tofu. Both options can absorb the sauce’s flavor beautifully while catering to various dietary preferences. Additionally, you could add some vegetables right into the frying mixture, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutrients and color to your dish. For an even zingier kick, experiment with adding lime or orange juice instead of lemon. This gives a fresh take on the classic dish you already love. You might also enjoy a spicy version by adding sriracha or chili sauce to the sauce mixture. If you find yourself with leftover lemon sauce, use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or as a dressing for a salad. The possibilities are endless, making this dish versatile in ways that keep your meals exciting.
FAQ about Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe
What is Chinese lemon chicken?
Chinese lemon chicken is a beloved dish featuring lightly battered and fried chicken pieces coated in a bright, tangy lemon sauce. It balances sweet and sour flavors, making it a favorite in Chinese cuisine.
Can I make Chinese lemon chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. However, for the best texture, cook the chicken fresh when you’re ready to serve, and keep the sauce aside to reheat.
What can I serve with Chinese lemon chicken?
You can serve Chinese lemon chicken with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad. These sides complement the dish beautifully and create a well-rounded meal.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this Chinese lemon chicken recipe is not spicy. However, you can add some chili flakes or a spicy sauce to give it a kick if you enjoy some heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, making sure they reach the proper internal temperature.
Chinese Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs Beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil For frying
For the sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch For thickening sauce
- 1 tablespoon water
Garnish
- Green onions For garnish
- Sesame seeds For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
Frying the Chicken
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in batches and fry until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels.
Making the Sauce
- In another pan, combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the boiling sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until fully coated.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
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