🍋 Lemon Chicken Recipe | Easy & Juicy Restaurant-Style Lemon Chicken

If you’re craving something tangy, zesty, and delicious, this Lemon Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need! With golden crispy chicken coated in a glossy, citrusy lemon sauce, it is one of the most popular chicken recipes in Asian, Indian, and global cuisines. Whether you’re looking for an easy lemon chicken stir fry, a Chinese-style lemon chicken, or a healthy lemon chicken dinner idea, this recipe delivers in flavor, texture, and simplicity.

📝 Ingredients

For Marinated Chicken:

• Boneless chicken breast or thigh – 500g (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• Cornflour – 3 tbsp

• All-purpose flour (maida) – 2 tbsp

• Black pepper – ½ tsp

• Salt – to taste

• Egg – 1

• Oil – for frying

For Lemon Sauce:

• Fresh lemon juice – 4 tbsp

• Lemon zest – 1 tsp

• Honey or sugar – 1.5 tbsp

• Garlic – 1 tbsp (minced)

• Soy sauce – 1 tbsp

• Water – ½ cup

• Cornflour slurry – 1 tsp cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp water

• Salt – to taste

• Spring onions – for garnish

• Lemon slices – optional for decoration

👨‍🍳 Make Lemon Chicken (Step-by-Step)

🔹 Step 1: Marinate and Fry the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with cornflour, all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and egg to coat well.

2. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok.

3. Fry the chicken in batches on medium-high heat until golden and crispy.

4. Drain on paper towels and keep aside.

✅ For a healthy lemon chicken recipe, air-fry or bake the chicken instead.

🔹 Step 2: Prepare the Tangy Lemon Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), and cornflour slurry.

2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan and sauté minced garlic until aromatic.

3. Pour in the lemon sauce mixture and bring it to a boil.

4. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly into a glossy sauce.

🔹 Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the crispy chicken to the sauce and toss well until evenly coated.

2. Add lemon zest and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Garnish with chopped spring onions and lemon slices before serving.

🍽️ Serve hot with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried noodles.

🕑 Serving Occasions

This juicy and flavorful lemon chicken dish is ideal for:

• Weeknight dinners – Quick, healthy, and delicious.

• Party appetizers – Serve as crispy lemon chicken bites.

• Lunchbox meals – Pairs well with rice or salad.

• Weekend indulgence – Great alternative to restaurant takeout.

• Fitness meals – Use grilled chicken and minimal oil for a lean version.

🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 250g)

🥗 Reduce oil and sugar for a diabetic- and weight-loss-friendly version.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I make lemon chicken without frying?

Yes! You can grill, bake, or air-fry the chicken and still toss it in the lemon sauce.

Q2. Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Lime gives a more intense tartness. Lemon is preferred, but lime works too.

Q3. Is lemon chicken Chinese or Indian?

It’s a fusion Indo-Chinese dish that originated from Asian flavors but is now popular in Indian households and restaurants.

Q4. Can I store lemon chicken for later?

Yes. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan to regain the sauce’s consistency.

💡 Tips to Perfect Your Lemon Chicken

• Use fresh lemon juice – bottled juice lacks natural zest.

• Don’t overcook the sauce – lemon can turn bitter if cooked too long.

• Want more sauce? Double the lemon sauce ingredients.

• For crispier results, double-fry the chicken.

• Add sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.

📝 Interesting Facts

This easy and delicious lemon chicken recipe is the perfect mix of sweet, sour, and savory. Whether you’re making a quick meal for your family or entertaining guests, this crispy homemade lemon chicken is sure to become a favorite. With a balance of zesty lemon sauce, juicy fried chicken, and bold Asian flavors, it’s a go-to dish for any occasion.