There’s nothing quite like the crispy crunch of perfectly fried chicken, especially when it’s infused with the bright, zesty essence of lemon. Picture this: after a long day, you walk into your kitchen and are immediately enveloped by the tantalizing aroma of garlic and ginger sizzling in the pan. This Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken isn’t just your ordinary weeknight meal—it’s a delightful celebration of flavors that transforms simple ingredients into a dish worthy of a festivity.
I stumbled upon this recipe while looking to switch things up from the monotonous fast-food cycle, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! The combination of tender chicken enveloped in a light, crispy batter paired with a refreshing lemon sauce will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip together, making it the ideal dish for family dinners or entertaining friends. With just a few steps, you can impress those around you with a meal that feels indulgent yet accessible. Grab your chicken, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering experience!
Why is Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken, creating a dish that’s bursting with taste.
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes minimal time to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crispy Goodness: The double frying technique ensures every bite is crunchier than the last.
Versatile Serving: Pair it with rice or a fresh salad for an adaptable meal.
Crowd Pleaser: Your family and friends will be asking for seconds; it’s that good!
Give this Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken a try and watch it become a regular on your dinner table!
Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor masterpiece!
For the Chicken
- Chicken thigh fillets – skinless and boneless for tenderness; chicken breasts work too if preferred.
- Cooking salt / kosher salt – essential for enhancing flavor; don’t skip this step!
For the Batter
- Cornflour / cornstarch – gives a light crunch to the chicken; essential for that crispy texture.
- Plain flour (all-purpose flour) – complements the cornstarch for a perfect coating; ensures golden color.
- Baking powder – helps the batter puff up slightly for extra crispiness.
- COLD soda water – the secret to a light and airy batter; avoid sparkling mineral water for best results.
For the Sauce
- Cornflour/cornstarch – thickens the sauce beautifully; don’t skip this!
- Chicken stock/broth, low sodium – base for the sauce’s flavor; opt for low sodium to keep it light.
- Lemon juice, fresh – infuses the sauce with zesty brightness; fresh is key to vibrant taste.
- White sugar – balances the tartness of the lemon; it’s a must for that perfect sweet-sour harmony.
- Garlic, finely grated – adds a warm depth to the sauce; fresh garlic packs the most flavor.
- Ginger, finely grated – a hint of spiciness that complements the lemon perfectly.
- Chinese cooking wine (optional) – enhances the overall flavor profile; omit if desired.
For Serving
- Lemon slices – for a fresh garnish that brightens up your plate; adds elegance and flavor.
- Green onion – finely sliced on the diagonal for a pop of color and crunch; optional but highly recommended!
Prepare these ingredients for a delightful cooking experience that will turn your kitchen into a culinary haven as you create this Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken!
How to Make Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken
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Pound the Chicken: Start by pounding chicken thighs to a thickness of 0.7cm (1/3″). This ensures even cooking and tenderizes the meat. Sprinkle with salt and dust with cornflour, making sure they’re evenly coated.
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Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, combine 1/3 cup cornflour, 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon plain flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix in 1/2 cup cold soda water until smooth and slightly bubbly.
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First Frying: Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 160°C (320°F) and fry chicken for 3 minutes until lightly golden. Remove the chicken and let it cool for 20 minutes on a wire rack.
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Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, whisk together 6 teaspoons of cornflour with a splash of chicken stock until smooth, then add the remaining stock, lemon juice, sugar, garlic, ginger, and optional Chinese cooking wine. Simmer on low for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Second Frying: Increase the oil heat to 200°C (390°F). Carefully place the cooled chicken back into the oil and fry for an additional 3 minutes until deep golden brown and super crispy.
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Serve: Slice the crispy chicken into 2cm thick pieces and arrange on serving plates. Generously pour over the lemon sauce and garnish with sliced green onions and lemon slices for an extra touch!
Optional: Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken Variations
Looking to put your own spin on this delicious dish? Here are some fun ideas to inspire your creativity!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute wheat flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free for a crunchy batter that everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the batter for a delightful heat that contrasts nicely with the zesty lemon flavor. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley into the batter for an aromatic twist that brightens the dish. Flavorful and fresh!
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Honey Sweetness: Swap out the white sugar in the sauce for honey to introduce a floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon sauce. It’s a match made in heaven!
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Citrus Twist: Experiment with lime or orange juice mixed into the sauce for a refreshing citrus alternative that brings new dimensions to the flavors.
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Extra Crunch: Add crushed rice crackers or panko breadcrumbs to the batter for an extra crunchy exterior that elevates each bite. Texture lovers rejoice!
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Vegetable Delight: Replace chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables, like cauliflower or zucchini, for a delicious plant-based version that still packs a punch.
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Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of mayonnaise into the sauce for a rich texture that contrasts with the crispy chicken beautifully.
Feel free to embrace these variations to create your perfect version of Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken!
Expert Tips for Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken
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Pounding Perfection: Ensure chicken is pounded evenly to 0.7cm; this guarantees tender pieces that cook uniformly and absorb flavors beautifully.
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Batter Bliss: Use cold soda water for your batter—this is crucial for achieving that signature crispiness. Avoid warm water, which can make the batter heavy.
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Double Frying: Don’t skip the cooling phase between firings! This technique seals in moisture while creating a crunchy crust. Cook each side thoroughly for maximum golden goodness.
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Sauce Secrets: For a thicker sauce, whisk the cornflour properly with a splash of stock before adding the rest. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth texture for your Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken.
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Seasoning Sensation: Always taste your sauce as it simmers. Adjust sweetness or acidity depending on your preference—don’t be afraid to balance the flavors to your liking!
Enjoy crafting your delicious Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken with these helpful tips!
What to Serve with Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken?
Transform your dinner table into a feast with these satisfying side dishes that perfectly complement the bright flavors of the chicken.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs the tangy lemon sauce wonderfully, bringing balance to every bite.
A simple bowl of jasmine rice is always a crowd favorite, creating a comforting base for the vibrant chicken dish. -
Garlic Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed with garlic, bok choy adds a fresh crunch and a burst of green goodness.
The slight bitterness of the greens contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the lemon sauce, offering a well-rounded meal. -
Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad drizzled with rice vinegar adds a cool, crisp texture to your feast.
Each bite provides a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken, enhancing the overall flavor profile. -
Peanut Noodles: These nutty noodles bring a creamy element that complements the crispy goodness of the chicken.
Tossed in a light sauce, they create a harmony of flavors that will have everyone reaching for more. -
Sweet and Sour Veggies: Colorful bell peppers and snap peas sautéed in sweet and sour sauce enhance the meal dynamic.
This dish adds a sweeter touch, creating a playful blend of flavors that pairs delightfully with your chicken. -
Chilled Lemonade: Refreshing and vibrant, a glass of chilled lemonade keeps the zesty theme alive throughout the meal.
It’s the perfect drink to cleanse your palate and complement the citrusy notes of the chicken. -
Sesame Green Beans: Lightly tossed in sesame oil, these green beans provide a nutty undertone and a lovely crunch.
Their earthy flavor balances the tangy lemon sauce, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Indulge in these pairings, and watch as your dinner transforms into a joyful celebration for family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To retain its crispy texture, avoid stacking pieces against each other.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled chicken in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, sealing tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen for best results.
Reheating: For optimal crispiness, reheat the chicken in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which may make the coating soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken by pounding and coating it with cornflour up to 24 hours in advance, sealing it in an airtight container to avoid drying out. The batter can also be mixed ahead of time—just refrigerate it and use it within 24 hours for the best texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken twice and prepare the zesty lemon sauce, which can be made up to 3 days in advance. Reheat the sauce gently before drizzling it over the crispy chicken for that fresh and flavorful finish. Enjoy your culinary creation with less stress on busy weeknights!
Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose skinless and boneless chicken thigh fillets, as they tend to be more tender and juicy. If you prefer chicken breasts, they’re an excellent alternative but may dry out slightly if overcooked. Look for chicken that is pink and firm with no dark spots or unusual odors to ensure freshness.
How long can I store leftovers of Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken?
Very! You can store leftover Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crispiness intact, it’s best not to stack the chicken pieces on top of each other, as this can cause them to lose their crunch.
Can I freeze the chicken, and how should I do it?
Of course! To freeze your Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken, allow it to cool completely after frying. Place the chicken in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, sealing it tightly to remove all the air. It’s best used within 3 months for optimal flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat from frozen.
How can I reheat Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken to keep it crispy?
For the best reheating results, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the coating soggy and less enjoyable.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, note that this recipe contains gluten (from the flour and cornstarch) and can be high in sodium. Additionally, the crispy chicken may not be suitable for pets due to the spices and high-fat content. If needed, you can use gluten-free flour alternatives like almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What if my batter doesn’t come out crispy?
Don’t worry! If your batter isn’t as crispy as you’d like, ensure that the soda water used is cold—this is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture. Double frying the chicken after letting it cool is also a key step that enhances crispiness. If the batter seems too thick, adding a bit more cold soda water can help improve texture while frying.
Deliciously Crispy Chinese Lemon Chicken You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound the Chicken: Start by pounding chicken thighs to a thickness of 0.7cm (1/3") and sprinkle with salt and dust with cornflour.
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, combine 1/3 cup cornflour, 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon plain flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix in 1/2 cup cold soda water until smooth.
- First Frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 160°C (320°F) and fry chicken for 3 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and cool for 20 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together 6 teaspoons of cornflour with a splash of chicken stock until smooth, then add remaining stock, lemon juice, sugar, garlic, ginger, and optional wine. Simmer for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Second Frying: Increase oil heat to 200°C (390°F). Fry the cooled chicken for an additional 3 minutes until deep golden brown.
- Serve: Slice chicken into 2cm thick pieces, pour over lemon sauce, and garnish with green onions and lemon slices.