Chinese Lemon Chicken

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Chinese lemon chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a zesty lemon sauce, creating a balance of sweet and savory flavors. This dish brings a taste of Chinese cuisine into your home and can easily impress family and friends. You can whip it up quickly for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Why We Love This Chinese Lemon Chicken

Chinese lemon chicken stands out for its bright, refreshing flavors and crunchy texture. You’ll appreciate how the zesty lemon sauce elevates the dish, providing a burst of flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the chicken. The sauce, made from simple ingredients, creates a tangy profile that complements the natural taste of the chicken. Plus, this dish is versatile. You can serve it over a bed of jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables, making it a great addition to any meal.

Moreover, this dish can cater to various dietary preferences. You can easily adjust ingredients or cooking methods to fit your needs, whether you’re looking for a lighter option or a heartier meal. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make Chinese lemon chicken not only delicious but also visually appealing, ensuring that every bite is a treat for the senses.

Ingredients for Chinese Lemon Chicken

  • 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup of cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon of chopped green onions (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and add the eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until the chicken is well coated.

  2. In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Dredge each piece of the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring a good coating.

  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in batches. Cook until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels.

  4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, and lemon zest. Stir to combine, and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Allow it to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

  6. Remove from heat, and serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.

How to Serve Chinese Lemon Chicken

When it comes to serving Chinese lemon chicken, you have several options to consider. Start with a generous portion of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delicious lemon sauce. Alternatively, you might want to serve it over a bed of stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. This adds not only a colorful flair but also extra nutrients to the meal.

You can also plate the chicken and drizzle additional sauce on top for a more vibrant presentation. Consider serving it with a side of steamed dumplings or crispy spring rolls for a complete Chinese-inspired feast. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, you can accompany the meal with sweet chili sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Feel free to garnish the dish with thin slices of lemon or additional chopped green onions for a fresh touch.

Lastly, don’t forget about the drinks. A refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon slices pairs wonderfully with this dish, adding to the overall experience. The combinations are endless, so get creative and serve this lemony delight in a way that pleases your palate and those of your guests.

Expert Tips for Chinese Lemon Chicken

To get the best results from your Chinese lemon chicken, consider a few expert tips to enhance both flavor and presentation. First, make sure to marinate the chicken in the egg mixture for at least 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the meat, making it juicy and flavorful.

Using a combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch for coating your chicken creates a light and crispy texture. Ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken; otherwise, it may absorb too much oil and become greasy.

For the lemon sauce, using fresh lemon juice and zest will yield a vibrant flavor that bottled lemon juice cannot replicate. Don’t hesitate to adjust the sugar to match your taste preference; if you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add more sugar gradually until it reaches your desired level.

Utilizing high-quality chicken broth can significantly elevate the taste of the sauce. If you can, choose homemade or low-sodium broth to keep the dish balanced. Finally, adding a touch of sesame oil to the final sauce can impart an extra layer of complexity. Just remember, a little goes a long way!

How to Store Chinese Lemon Chicken

Storing Chinese lemon chicken properly ensures you can enjoy your leftovers while maintaining flavor and texture. Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat. This method helps retain the dish’s crispy texture and prevents it from getting soggy.

If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing the lemon chicken. Place it in an airtight freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat frozen chicken, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in a pan. This way, you’ll help preserve the dish’s quality and enjoy it at its best.

Variations of Chinese Lemon Chicken

While the classic recipe for Chinese lemon chicken is a crowd-pleaser, there are numerous variations you can explore to keep things exciting. One popular twist is to add a variety of vegetables to the dish. bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas can be stir-fried and tossed in with the chicken and sauce, making the meal more colorful and nutritious.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you could incorporate some finely chopped red chili or a splash of chili sauce into the lemon sauce. This adjustment will give the dish a delightful spicy kick that complements the tangy lemon flavor.

You can also bowl up this dish with different proteins. Consider using shrimp or tofu as an alternative to chicken. Both options absorb the lemon sauce well and provide a different texture. If you prefer a meatless option, simply double the vegetables and cut back on the chicken, allowing the dish to stand out as a vibrant vegetable medley.

Another variation could involve playing with the sauce’s flavor profile by replacing some of the lemon juice with orange juice, creating an Orange Chicken-inspired dish. Each of these variations can bring a new twist to this classic recipe while keeping the essence of Chinese lemon chicken intact.

FAQ about Chinese Lemon Chicken

If you’re new to making Chinese lemon chicken or just curious, various questions often arise about this flavorful dish. One common inquiry is whether you can substitute different types of chicken. Absolutely! You can use thighs or tenders instead of breasts, but cooking times may vary slightly because those cuts can be fattier.

Another frequent question concerns the consistency of the sauce. To achieve a thicker sauce, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and add it during the simmering process. This will help stabilize the sauce and give it a glossy finish.

People also ask about making this dish in advance. While you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it, it’s best to make the sauce fresh to avoid a soggy coating. Reheating might soften the crispy texture unless done carefully.

Lastly, some wonder if leftovers can be frozen. Yes, you can freeze Chinese lemon chicken, but for best results, consume it fresh or within a few days of preparation. Thawing and reheating might affect the overall texture, but it’ll still taste delicious!

Delicious Chinese lemon chicken garnished with fresh lemon slices and herbs

Chinese Lemon Chicken

A delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty lemon sauce, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken Preparation

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast Cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 large eggs For coating the chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Coating

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For frying chicken
  • 1 cup chicken broth Preferably low-sodium
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed is recommended
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Adjust according to sweetness preference
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green onions For garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place in a bowl. Add the eggs, salt, and black pepper, mixing until the chicken is well coated.
  • In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture to ensure a good coating.

Cooking

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, cooking until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add chicken broth, lemon juice, sugar, soy sauce, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing in the sauce to coat evenly. Allow to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.

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Notes

Serve over jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables. For an extra touch, drizzle additional sauce on top or add a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Keyword chicken recipe, Chinese Lemon Chicken, Easy Dinner