Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

Classic Lemon Chicken with crispy battered chicken thighs in a sweet and tangy sauce makes this Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe a treat. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you crave something delicious. This recipe stands out because it allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality lemon chicken from the comfort of your home. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch, this dish will surely impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be completed in just 60 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of lemon juice and sugar creates a delightful sweet-and-sour flavor that pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
• Homemade Goodness: Skip the takeout and enjoy fresh, homemade lemon chicken that you can customize to your taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or alongside vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s suitable for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Pot for frying
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken and combining ingredients without mess.
• Skillet: Perfect for tossing the chicken with the sauce after frying, ensuring even coating.
• Pot for frying: A deep pot helps maintain oil temperature for perfectly crispy chicken.

Ingredients

Classic Lemon Chicken with crispy battered chicken thighs in a sweet and tangy sauce makes this Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe a treat. You can skip the delivery and the wait and make it at home!

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken thighs (cut into cubes)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 1/3 c lemon juice
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 c water
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp lemon zest

For Breading

• 1/4 c flour
• 1/2 c cornstarch

For Frying

• Oil for frying

How to Make Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Add soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to your chicken in a large mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, mix together lemon juice, sugar, water, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

After marination, add flour and 1/2 cup of cornstarch to the bowl of chicken. Toss to coat each piece evenly.

Step 4: Heat Oil

In a pot with oil about three inches deep, heat on medium-high until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Add the coated chicken in batches to avoid crowding. Fry until golden brown. Once cooked, transfer pieces to a skillet.

Step 6: Combine with Sauce

Once all chicken is fried, turn off the oil but keep the skillet on medium-high heat. Add your prepared sauce into the skillet.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Coat all chicken pieces in the sauce quickly until thickened.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy this delicious Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

Serving your homemade Chinese Lemon Chicken is a delightful experience that can be customized in various delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce, soaking up all the flavors of the chicken.

Accompanied by Stir-Fried Vegetables

• A mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables adds both nutrition and crunch, balancing the dish’s sweetness.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve the lemon chicken over a bed of noodles for a hearty meal that combines textures and flavors beautifully.

As Part of a Chinese Feast

• Incorporate this dish into a larger spread with other Chinese dishes for an impressive dinner party.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Chopped green onions sprinkled on top enhance the dish’s visual appeal and add a mild onion flavor.

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How to Perfect Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

To make sure your Chinese Lemon Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate in soy sauce and cornstarch enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at 350 degrees Fahrenheit before frying. This helps achieve a crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Frying in batches prevents steaming and keeps your chicken crispy.
• Quick Sauce Cooking: Toss the fried chicken quickly in the sauce to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide vibrant flavors that make your dish shine.

Best Side Dishes for Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chinese Lemon Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A classic side, fried rice complements the main dish while adding extra flavor and texture.
2. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat bring crunch and variety to your table.
3. Hot and Sour Soup: This warming soup balances sweetness with its spicy and sour notes, making it an ideal starter.
4. Chinese Broccoli: Lightly steamed or stir-fried, this vegetable adds health benefits and color to your plate.
5. Sesame Noodles: These cold noodles tossed in sesame dressing offer a refreshing contrast to hot chicken.
6. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh ingredients make for a delightful appetizer alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results. Here are key pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavors. Always give it at least 30 minutes.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy pieces. Fry in small batches instead.
• Not drying the chicken: If the chicken is wet before coating, the batter won’t stick well. Make sure it’s patted dry before adding flour and cornstarch.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Subpar soy sauce or lemon juice can affect the dish’s flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
• Forgetting to check oil temperature: Cooking at incorrect temperatures can lead to uneven cooking. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at 350 degrees.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chinese Lemon Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking tray and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe.

What is Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe?

Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe features crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy lemon sauce, perfect for a homemade takeout experience.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may not be as juicy as thighs.

How do I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrition. Feel free to adjust sugar levels based on your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well and makes great leftovers, ideal for meal prepping throughout the week.

What should I serve with Chinese Lemon Chicken?

Serve it with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements this flavorful dish.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe is a delightful blend of crispy chicken and zesty sauce that’s sure to please everyone at your table. With options to customize ingredients, you can make it your own! Don’t hesitate—try this comforting dish today!