Chinese Lemon Chicken

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I’ve always adored the perfect balance of flavors that Chinese Lemon Chicken brings to the table. The crispy golden chicken paired with a bright, tangy lemon sauce is simply irresistible, and I couldn’t wait to recreate it at home. When I first made it, I was amazed at how much better it tasted than takeout, and since then, it’s become a regular dinner choice for my family.

Cooking this dish fills the kitchen with the most wonderful aroma — a mix of citrus, savory chicken, and just a hint of sweetness. I love that it doesn’t require hours of preparation, yet still feels like something truly special when served. Every bite is a little crunchy, a little saucy, and a whole lot of comfort.

If you enjoy dishes that are both easy and impressive, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too. And if you’re a fan of bold flavors, you might also enjoy my Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken or even my Black Pepper Beef for another flavorful dinner idea.

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Lemon Chicken

This Chinese Lemon Chicken is everything you want in a quick homemade meal. The chicken stays juicy inside while being perfectly crispy on the outside, and the sauce is refreshingly light yet full of flavor. It’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even alongside a fresh salad. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to wow guests.

Ingredients

Chicken breast — Essential for the tender, juicy meat that forms the base of this dish.

Cornstarch — Helps create the light, crispy coating when fried.

Egg — Binds the coating to the chicken and adds richness.

Salt and pepper — Brings out the natural flavors of the chicken.

Lemon juice — The star of the sauce, bringing bright acidity and freshness.

Sugar — Balances the tart lemon with sweetness.

Soy sauce — Adds a touch of umami depth to the sauce.

Chicken broth — Rounds out the sauce with a savory note.

Garlic — Gives the sauce a subtle aromatic punch.

Vegetable oil — For frying the chicken to golden perfection.

How to Make Chinese Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Toss the pieces in cornstarch until evenly coated, then dip each piece in a beaten egg.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy, then transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Simmer over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Place the fried chicken on a serving platter and drizzle the hot lemon sauce over the top. Serve immediately with rice or your choice of sides.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs are a great substitute for chicken breast and add more richness. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch and broth are gluten-free. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a little heat or toss in some steamed broccoli for a veggie boost.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Chinese Lemon Chicken is best served with steamed white rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp cucumber salad or sautéed greens for a light contrast. If you’re in the mood for a full takeout-inspired spread, serve it alongside egg rolls and a bowl of hot and sour soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes to keep it crispy. The lemon sauce can be stored separately and reheated gently on the stove.

FAQs

Can I make Chinese Lemon Chicken ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, but fry the chicken just before serving for maximum crispiness.

Is Chinese Lemon Chicken spicy?

No, this dish is tangy and sweet rather than spicy. You can add chili flakes if you like heat.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, though it won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F on a wire rack for about 20 minutes.

What’s the best side dish for Chinese Lemon Chicken?

Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice, but fried rice or noodles work well too.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this Chinese Lemon Chicken, you might also enjoy trying my Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken or the savory and bold Black Pepper Beef. Both are quick to make and packed with flavor, perfect for your next dinner.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this Chinese Lemon Chicken recipe to your Pinterest board so you can find it easily when the craving strikes. You can also share it with your friends and family on Facebook, Instagram, or by email — everyone loves discovering a new favorite dinner idea!

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