Are you a fan of citrusy flavors and Asian-inspired cuisine? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of crispy Chinese lemon chicken recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. With its perfect balance of sweet and sour notes, lemon chicken is a staple in many Chinese households. And when paired with the crunchiness of crispy chicken, it’s a match made in heaven.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of this beloved dish. From classic honey-glazed chicken to spicy Szechuan-inspired stir-fries and everything in between, you’ll find inspiration for any occasion or palate. So grab your wok or skillet, and let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Classic Chinese Lemon Chicken with Honey Glaze
Classic Chinese Lemon Chicken with Honey Glaze Recipe
This recipe combines the brightness of citrus with the sweetness of honey, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will elevate your taste buds. A staple in many Chinese restaurants, this dish is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until coated with the mixture.
3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
4. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
6. Pour the glaze over the chicken and stir to coat.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Szechuan pepper with the brightness of lemon and the juiciness of chicken for a unique and delicious stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, Szechuan pepper, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Return chicken to pan and stir-fry until coated with the sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Baked Lemon Chicken with Sesame Seeds
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and crunchy chicken dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each breast.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and crispy on the outside.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Sweet and Sour Lemon Chicken with Pineapple
This vibrant and tangy dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a crispy chicken package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, sweet and sour sauce, and pineapple chunks.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sticky Lemon Chicken with Garlic and Ginger
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken dishes, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the warmth of ginger, and the pungency of garlic to create a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the bowl and whisk until well combined.
4. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Cashews
Revamp your weeknight dinner routine with this bright and flavorful dish, packed with protein-rich chicken, nutrient-dense broccoli, and crunchy cashews.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cashews
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken breasts in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
7. Sprinkle cashews over chicken breasts during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chinese Lemon Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken wraps, this recipe combines the zesty flavors of China with the crunch of fresh lettuce and the juiciness of grilled chicken. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, wash and dry the lettuce leaves.
5. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
6. Assemble wraps by placing a few slices of chicken onto a lettuce leaf, then topping with scallions and any other desired toppings (e.g., pickled carrots, sliced avocado).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Chicken with Honey and Soy Sauce
Elevate your chicken dish with the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon-honey mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Lemon Chicken Noodle Bowl
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional chicken noodle soup. With its bright citrus flavor and tender chicken, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in lemon juice and thyme; stir to combine.
5. Serve chicken mixture over noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Lemon Chicken with Bell Peppers and Onions
A bright and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the zesty tang of lemon with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions, all wrapped up in juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Arrange bell peppers and onions around the chicken.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange-Lemon Chicken with a Citrus Twist
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and aromatic chicken dish, where the sweetness of orange meets the tanginess of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the citrus mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Chicken Fried Rice with Scallions
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the brightness of lemon zest with the savory goodness of chicken and vegetables, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy fried rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add mixed vegetables, garlic, and lemon zest to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until combined with vegetables and slightly toasted.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and refreshing lemon chicken skewers served with a creamy peanut sauce for dipping. Perfect for a warm weather BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Peanut Sauce:
+ 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
+ 1/4 cup soy sauce
+ 2 tablespoons honey
+ 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix peanut sauce ingredients in a bowl. Serve with grilled skewers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry
Brighten up your meal with this zesty and savory stir-fry featuring juicy chicken, tender mushrooms, and a burst of citrusy lemon flavor. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the pan. Cook mushrooms and garlic until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add lemon juice, ginger, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the lemon sauce. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Chicken with Snow Peas and Carrots
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and nutritious dish, featuring tender chicken, crunchy snow peas, and sweet carrots all tied together with a zesty lemon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh snow peas, trimmed
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add snow peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and salt. Pour over chicken and vegetables in the skillet.
6. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Chicken Dumplings with Dipping Sauce
Brighten up a chilly evening with these tangy and savory lemon chicken dumplings, served with a refreshing dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
For the dumplings:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For the dipping sauce:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, onion, garlic, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add lemon juice, egg, and parsley; mix until just combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Cook dumplings according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
6. Serve with dipping sauce (mix all ingredients together).
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Lemon Chicken Bao Buns with Pickled Vegetables
A refreshing twist on traditional bao buns, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon chicken with tangy pickled vegetables. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 bao buns (homemade or store-bought)
– Pickled vegetables (recipe below)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Pickled Vegetables:
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Split the bao buns in half and toast them lightly.
4. Assemble the buns with the lemon chicken, pickled vegetables, and garnishes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Chicken and Shrimp Combo Stir-Fry
A zesty and flavorful stir-fry that combines the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of chicken and shrimp. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Chicken with Crispy Wonton Strips
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and crispy wontons. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 wonton wrappers
– Optional: chopped green onions and lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Cook chicken in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Meanwhile, heat lemon juice and garlic in a small saucepan over low heat.
6. Place cooked chicken breasts in the saucepan and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. To make wonton strips, cut wrappers into thin strips and fry in hot oil until crispy.
8. Serve chicken with wonton strips and garnish with green onions and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Chicken Lo Mein with Bean Sprouts
This refreshing recipe combines the flavors of lemon, chicken, and lo mein noodles with crunchy bean sprouts for a delicious and quick meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 cup lo mein noodles
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add bean sprouts and cooked noodles to the wok. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 20 crispy Chinese lemon chicken recipes! From classic honey glaze to spicy Szechuan stir-fry, and from sweet and sour pineapple to sticky garlic and ginger, there’s something for every palate. Try baked sesame seed chicken, lettuce wraps with citrus zing, or noodle bowls with a burst of flavor. Discover innovative twists like orange-lemon fusion, peanut sauce, or crispy wonton strips. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or healthy eating, these mouth-watering recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more!
