Simple Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe: A Sweet-Tangy Dinner Win

Weeknight dinners demand something special that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds, and this Chinese lemon chicken recipe delivers pure culinary magic.

Crispy golden chicken pieces drizzled with tangy, bright sauce create an irresistible combination that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience.

Tender chicken chunks coated in a light, delicate batter promise restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen.

Each bite blends zesty citrus notes with perfectly seasoned meat that practically melts on your tongue.

The recipe balances simplicity and sophistication, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Vibrant and quick to prepare, this dish brings the excitement of takeout directly to your dining table.

Prepare to savor a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why People Love Chinese Lemon Chicken

• Learn a foolproof technique that guarantees crispy, golden chicken with a tangy lemon sauce that impresses family and guests without complicated steps.
• Easily adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit different taste preferences, making this recipe wonderfully adaptable for picky eaters or adventurous food lovers.
• Enjoy a lighter version of classic takeout that's baked instead of deep-fried, packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with zesty flavors without guilt.

Ingredients for Chinese Lemon Chicken

• Chicken Thighs: Succulent pieces of meat that form the heart of this delicious Chinese-inspired dish.

• Cornstarch, Baking Soda, Salt, White Pepper: A dry mixture that creates a crispy, flavorful exterior for the chicken.

• Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Bright and tangy citrus components that provide a fresh, zesty flavor to the dish.
• Soy Sauce: A savory condiment that adds depth and umami to the lemon sauce.
• Chicken Stock: A liquid base that enhances the overall sauce flavor and consistency.
• Honey: A natural sweetener that balances the tartness of the lemon.
• Garlic, Ginger: Aromatic ingredients that bring warmth and complexity to the sauce.

• Green Onions, Toasted Sesame Seeds: Colorful and crunchy toppings that add visual appeal and extra texture to the finished dish.

• Low-Calorie Cooking Spray: A light coating that helps achieve a crispy chicken exterior while keeping the dish healthier.

Instructions for Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Get your oven ready by heating it to 200°C (400°F).

Grab a baking tray and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect cooking.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Grab your chicken and gently pat it dry with paper towels.

This is crucial for achieving that amazing crispy exterior.

• Cornstarch
• Baking soda
• Salt
• White pepper

Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture, ensuring every inch gets a delicious even coating.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spread the coated chicken on the prepared tray.

Give them a light spray of cooking spray for extra crispiness.

Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 30 minutes.

Flip the chicken halfway through to ensure even browning.

You’re looking for a gorgeous golden exterior with a juicy interior.

Step 4: Craft the Zesty Lemon Sauce

While the chicken bakes, whip up an incredible sauce in a saucepan.

• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Soy sauce
• Chicken stock
• Honey
• Minced garlic
• Grated ginger
• Cornstarch

Whisk everything together and heat over medium-high heat.

Stir constantly until the sauce thickens beautifully (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 5: Create the Final Masterpiece

Remove the chicken from the oven.

Transfer the crispy pieces to a large bowl.

Pour the warm, tangy lemon sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat every piece perfectly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top.

This adds a fresh crunch and nutty flavor that takes the dish to the next level.

Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement!

Tips for Crispy Lemon Chicken

• Pat chicken thighs thoroughly to remove excess moisture, ensuring a perfectly crispy exterior when baked.
• Whisk sauce ingredients continuously and watch carefully to prevent over-thickening, aiming for a smooth, glossy texture.
• Flip chicken halfway through cooking to guarantee even browning and maintain juicy meat throughout.
• Use cooking spray instead of oil to reduce overall fat content while still achieving a golden, crisp chicken surface.
• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions just before serving to add extra crunch and bright, fresh notes to the dish.

Storing Chinese Lemon Chicken

• Transfer leftover chicken to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the lemon sauce separate to prevent the chicken from getting soggy.
• Seal chicken pieces in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Ensure sauce is stored in a separate container.
• Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Place chicken on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly. Drizzle reserved sauce after reheating to maintain crispiness.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle few drops of water to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between rounds. Add fresh sauce after heating to revive flavor.

Sides That Go with Lemon Chicken

• Pair Citrusy White Wine: Choose a crisp, zesty Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the lemon sauce's bright, tangy flavors and cuts through the chicken's richness.
• Enhance with Jasmine Rice: Serve fragrant jasmine rice alongside the chicken to soak up the delicious lemon sauce and provide a soft, neutral base that balances the dish's bold flavors.
• Brighten with Asian Slaw: Create a light, crunchy Asian-style coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a rice vinegar dressing to add freshness and texture that contrasts the crispy chicken.
• Recommend Green Tea: Brew a delicate green tea to cleanse the palate, its subtle grassy notes harmonizing with the lemon and soy sauce while offering a refreshing counterpoint to the meal.

Flavor Variations for Lemon Chicken

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make the recipe gluten-free. Use cornstarch from a certified gluten-free source for coating chicken.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap honey with sugar-free maple syrup or monk fruit sweetener. Reduce cornstarch quantity and use almond flour instead for a lower-carbohydrate coating.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: The current recipe is already dairy-free. Ensure cooking spray is plant-based for strict dietary requirements. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock if needed.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken thighs with firm tofu or cauliflower florets. Coat plant-based protein with same seasoning mix and bake until crispy. Adjust cooking time based on chosen protein substitute.

FAQs

• Why use cornstarch and baking soda in the coating?

Cornstarch and baking soda help create a super crispy exterior on the chicken. They absorb moisture and create a light, crunchy texture that makes the chicken extra delicious and golden brown.

• Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast, but be careful not to overcook. Chicken breasts are leaner and can dry out faster, so reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes and check for doneness to keep the meat juicy.

• How do I know when the lemon sauce is the right consistency?

The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear path when you run your finger through it. It should be smooth and slightly thick, not runny or too gelatinous.

• Is this recipe spicy?

No, this Chinese lemon chicken recipe is not spicy. It has a tangy, sweet, and savory flavor profile from the lemon, honey, and soy sauce, without any added heat from chili or pepper.

Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Zesty Chinese Lemon Chicken dances with tangy citrus and crispy golden coating, promising a flavor explosion. Juicy chicken pieces glazed in bright sauce deliver restaurant-quality satisfaction you can easily recreate at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 700 grams (25 ounces) boneless skinless chicken thighs, bite-size pieces

Seasoning and Coating:

• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt
• White pepper

Sauce and Aromatics:

• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 120 milliliters (1/2 cup) chicken stock
• 4 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 green onions, chopped (green part only)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to ensure optimal cooking conditions for the chicken.
2. Thoroughly dry chicken thighs using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Create a coating mixture of cornstarch, baking soda, salt, and white pepper. Carefully coat each chicken piece, ensuring even distribution of the dry ingredients.
3. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared tray. Lightly spray with cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Bake for 30 minutes, rotating the pieces midway to guarantee uniform golden-brown coloration and consistent cooking.
4. Simultaneously craft the lemon sauce by combining lemon juice, zest, soy sauce, chicken stock, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Heat over medium-high temperature, continuously whisking until the sauce reaches a smooth, thickened consistency (approximately 2-3 minutes).
5. Remove chicken from the oven and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Gently pour the warm lemon sauce over the baked pieces, carefully tossing to ensure complete and even coating.
6. Garnish the glazed chicken with finely chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, adding a final layer of flavor and visual appeal.
7. Plate and serve immediately while the chicken remains hot and the sauce is at its most vibrant.

Notes

• Optimize chicken crispiness by thoroughly patting meat dry before coating, ensuring maximum texture and flavor absorption.
• Customize coating mixture with additional spices like paprika or garlic powder for personalized flavor profile enhancement.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce and honey alternatives for dietary restrictions, maintaining recipe’s authentic taste while accommodating health needs.
• Prepare sauce ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking process and prevent potential sauce burning during quick preparation stages.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 440
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg