Crispy Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s a certain joy in recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home, especially when they come with a healthier twist. I discovered this delightful recipe for Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken one evening while searching for something quick yet satisfying to shake up my weeknight routine. Imagine the crunch of perfectly fried chicken pieces bathed in a bright, tangy lemon glaze, all without the heaviness of traditional batter.

As I took my first bite, the zesty lemon danced on my palate, perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. It whisked me back to those bustling takeout joints, but with the comforting knowledge that I had crafted it myself, using wholesome ingredients. Whether you re entertaining friends or simply treating yourself after a long day, this easy-to-make dish promises all the flavor and nostalgia you crave, with none of the fuss. Ready to dive into this crispy delight? Let s get cooking!

Why You ll Love This Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken

Easy Preparation: You only need a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking skills to whip this up in no time.

Crispy Texture: Each piece of chicken is lightly coated, ensuring a delightful crunch without the heaviness of traditional batter.

Bright, Flavorful Sauce: A tangy lemon glaze with just the right touch of sweetness brings all the comforting flavors of Chinese cuisine to your table.

Weeknight Winner: Quick to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying and homemade.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your family and friends with this dish that s sure to be a hit, making it perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

For more ideas on enriching your home-cooked meals, check out our tips on quick and healthy dinner options.

Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken Ingredients

Get ready to whip up this delightful dish!

For the Chicken
Chicken Thighs or Breasts Choose thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
Cornflour (Cornstarch) Essential for achieving that crispy texture without heavy batter.
Egg White Helps the cornflour stick and ensures a light coating.

For the Glaze
Soy Sauce Adds depth and umami flavor to the chicken.
Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed is a must for the tangy glaze, enhancing the Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken experience.
Sugar Balances the tartness in the glaze; you can adjust to taste.
Honey Adds a natural sweetness, contributing to a glossy finish on the sauce.
Chicken Stock Rounds out the flavor; opt for low-sodium for a healthier touch.
Garlic Minced or finely chopped; infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor.

For Cooking
Vegetable Oil Neutral oils like canola work best for frying; needed for that perfect crisp.
Plain Flour Enhances the coating; can be adjusted or omitted for gluten-free needs.

For Garnish
Spring Onion Adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.

How to Make Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken

1. Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine your choice of chicken thighs or breasts with soy sauce and egg white. Mix until evenly coated, then sprinkle in cornflour and plain flour, ensuring each piece is lightly sticky and well-covered.

2. Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a wok, heating over medium-high until shimmering, around 180 °C (350 °F). This will guarantee a crispy texture for your chicken.

3. Fry Chicken: Working in small batches, carefully fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once done, drain on a paper towel to keep crisp.

4. Make Glaze: After frying, wipe the wok clean and add a little oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, which takes about 10 seconds. Then, add the lemon juice, sugar, honey, and chicken stock, simmering until the sugar fully dissolves.

5. Thicken Sauce: Stir in a cornflour slurry (mixing cornflour with a bit of water) and allow it to cook for another minute. Watch for the sauce to thicken and become glossy, just like the perfect glaze should.

6. Coat Chicken: Return your crispy chicken pieces to the wok, tossing them until each piece is generously coated in the glaze. Let it cook briefly to allow the glaze to adhere beautifully.

7. Serve: Transfer your Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken to a serving plate, garnishing with sliced spring onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it hot alongside steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal!

Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken with soy sauce and egg white up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor and saves you time on busy weeknights. Additionally, you can mix the cornflour and plain flour together ahead of time to streamline your cooking process. For best results, fry the chicken just before serving to maintain its crispy texture; however, you can refrigerate the cooked chicken for up to 3 days and reheat it gently in a pan over low heat. When you re ready to eat, simply prepare the glaze, toss the reheated chicken in, and enjoy a delicious meal that s just as flavorful as when it was first made!

Expert Tips for Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken

• Crispy Success: Fry chicken in small batches. This keeps the oil temperature consistent, resulting in beautifully crispy pieces.

• Fresh Juice Matters: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the glaze. Bottled juice lacks the bright, zesty flavor that makes the sauce shine in this Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken.

• Storage Secrets: To maintain the chicken s crispness when storing leftovers, reheat gently in a pan over low heat, rather than using a microwave.

• Customize Flavors: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze to suit your taste. Start with less sugar and honey, adding more as needed for your preferred balance.

• Thicken With Care: When adding the cornflour slurry, make sure to stir continuously; this prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, glossy finish on your sauce.

What to Serve with Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken?

Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the zesty flavors of this dish perfectly.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that captures the tangy sauce, providing a fluffy, aromatic base for the crispy chicken.

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots adds crunch and nutrition, creating a vibrant plate that balances the rich glaze.

• Garlic Bok Choy: The mild, slightly peppery greens offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the lemon sauce, enhancing the dish s overall flavor profile.

• Crispy Spring Rolls: These add an extra layer of texture while maintaining the Asian theme, making for a fun and crunchy addition to your meal.

• Sesame Noodles: Serve these cold or warm for a delightful Asian flair. The subtle nuttiness pairs beautifully with the vibrant lemon glaze.

• Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad cuts through the richness with its tanginess and provides a cool crunch to balance the sticky chicken.

• Chilled Green Tea: Beat the heat with a glass of chilled green tea that cleanses the palate and complements the bold flavors of the chicken.

• Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a light note. This refreshing dessert echoes the citrus notes from the chicken, leaving you with a sweet memory of your meal.

Storage Tips for Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep the flavors fresh while preventing moisture loss.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months to enjoy later.

Reheating: To revive leftover Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, allowing the chicken to crisp up again while warming through. Avoid the microwave for the best texture.

Room Temperature: Serve fresh for the best taste; be cautious to not leave out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken Variations

Feel free to put your own twist on this delicious dish and make it truly yours!

• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu, marinating it the same way. You ll enjoy a delightful plant-based version!

• Citrus Swap: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty flavor twist. It brightens up the dish with an exciting new profile.

• Add Veggies: Toss in vibrant bell peppers or broccoli during frying for added texture and nutrients to enhance your meal s healthiness.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilis to the glaze for a fiery finish that will awaken your taste buds.

• Ginger Infusion: Incorporate fresh ginger in the glaze for a spicy warmth and aromatic touch that complements the citrus beautifully.

• Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted sesame seeds before serving for extra crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the glaze.

• Honey Alternative: Swap honey for maple syrup for a unique take on sweetness while keeping it plant-based!

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and omit plain flour for a crispy chicken that accommodates dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken?
I recommend using chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result, but chicken breasts also work well if you prefer leaner meat. Be sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and crispness.

How can I store leftovers of Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the chicken crispy, it s best to reheat it in a skillet over low heat rather than using a microwave, which can make it soggy.

Can I freeze Sticky Chinese Lemon Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely. Then, spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I do if the glaze isn t thickening?
If your glaze isn t thickening, the key is to use a cornflour slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornflour with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering glaze and keep stirring for another minute or two until it thickens. Make sure to do this continuously to prevent lumps.

Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can adjust this dish to suit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, substitute plain flour with a gluten-free alternative and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free. If you re vegan, consider replacing the chicken with tofu and the egg white with a bit of water mixed with cornflour to facilitate binding. Always ensure that any ingredients used are free from allergens relevant to your diet.