Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and a perfect balance of crispy texture and tangy sweetness, this Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe is an absolute must-try. Tender pieces of chicken, lightly coated and fried to golden crunchiness, are drenched in a luscious sticky lemon sauce that is both zesty and sweet, elevated with a fragrant hint of garlic and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a restaurant favorite but is surprisingly simple to prepare at home. Every bite delivers a mouthwatering experience that I promise will have you reaching for seconds — and maybe thirds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component is key to building the flavor layers, from the crispiness of the chicken coating to the glossy, sticky lemon sauce that clings to every piece.

• 600g boneless chicken thigh or breast: Tender, juicy, and perfect for crisp frying.
• 1/2 cup cornflour (first measurement): Creates that irresistible crunchy coating on the chicken.
• 1 egg: Helps the cornflour stick evenly to the chicken pieces for even crispiness.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Essential for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
• 75ml fresh lemon juice: Adds bright, zesty flavor that balances sweetness perfectly.
• 2 tbsp brown sugar: Contributes depth and caramel-like sweetness to the sauce.
• 2 tbsp honey: Gives the sauce a natural sticky texture and gentle floral notes.
• 2 tsp garlic, crushed: Brings aromatic warmth and savory depth.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds a savory umami punch and balances the sour lemon.
• 1/2 cup chicken stock: Creates a flavorful base for the lemon sauce.
• 1 tbsp cornflour (second measurement): Mixed with water to thicken the sauce into a glossy coating.
• 50ml water: Used to dissolve cornflour for sauce thickening.
• 1 spring onion, sliced: Adds a fresh, peppery crunch as garnish.
• 1 tsp sesame seeds: Gives a subtle nutty flavor and lovely visual contrast.
• Steamed greens and rice to serve: Perfect neutral sides to soak up all that sticky sauce.

How to Make Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Coat the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces — this ensures every chunk is perfectly crispy and saucy. Toss the pieces in the first measurement of cornflour to give that essential dry coating, then mix in a beaten egg to bind everything together. This simple step is what helps the chicken fry up so crisp and golden.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Lemon Sauce

While the chicken rests, combine fresh lemon juice, brown sugar, honey, crushed garlic, soy sauce, and chicken stock in a bowl. Whisk everything thoroughly to marry those vibrant, sweet, and savory flavors that will form the heart of your sticky lemon sauce. The freshness of lemon juice balanced by sweet honey and sugar promises a sauce that is far from ordinary.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken Until Crispy

Heat your vegetable oil in a large frying pan — this is the moment to get those chicken pieces sizzlin’. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding, turning until each piece is golden brown and irresistibly crunchy. Once cooked, set the chicken aside but resist the urge to nibble just yet!

Step 4: Make the Sticky Lemon Sauce

Carefully wipe out excess oil from the pan so your sauce doesn’t become greasy, then pour in the lemon sauce mixture. Allow it to simmer gently for a couple of minutes, letting the flavors concentrate and the aroma fill your kitchen.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce and Combine with Chicken

Mix the second measurement of cornflour with water until completely dissolved, then stir it into the simmering sauce. This magic step transforms the lemon sauce into a luscious, shiny glaze. As it thickens, gently toss the crispy chicken back into the pan, coating each piece with the sticky, tangy sauce — this is where all the deliciousness truly comes together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle over the sliced spring onion and sesame seeds for that final burst of color, texture, and nutty flavor. Serve immediately with fluffy steamed rice and vibrant greens for a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Serve Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe

Garnishes

Adding freshly sliced spring onions and toasted sesame seeds is not just about looks. They add a fresh crunch and subtle nuttiness that perfectly complement the sticky, sharp lemon sauce. Feel free to add a little chili flakes or fresh coriander if you want a spicy or herbal touch to elevate the dish even more.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up every drop of sauce. Lightly steamed greens like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas add a fresh, healthy element that balances the richness of the chicken and sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this dish in lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld option. Alternatively, layering it over an Asian-inspired noodle salad or placing it atop a bed of quinoa with a sprinkle of fresh herbs creates a vibrant, colorful plate that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep well for up to 3 days, although it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Freeze the chicken after frying but before saucing for best texture, and thaw completely before reheating. The sauce freezes well on its own; reheat gently on the stove, then toss with the chicken once warmed through.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to bring back some of the chicken’s crispiness, stirring gently to prevent losing the sticky sauce. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture, but if you must, use lower power and cover to keep moisture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh?

Absolutely! Both thighs and breasts work well in this Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe. Thighs provide extra juiciness and tenderness, but breasts can be a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook breast meat to keep it tender.

What can I substitute for cornflour?

If you don’t have cornflour, potato starch or tapioca starch are great alternatives for the crispy coating and sauce thickening. Avoid using plain flour, as it won’t give the same crisp texture or smooth finish to the sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce and make sure your cornflour or starch is certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, keeping the dish safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive diners.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

You can prepare the lemon sauce mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it separately. When ready to cook, just bring it to a simmer to activate the flavors and thickening before tossing it with freshly fried chicken for maximum crunch and freshness.

How can I make this dish more spicy?

For a bit of heat, add crushed red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the lemon sauce while whisking. Alternatively, sprinkle some sliced fresh chili as a garnish to spice things up without overpowering the refreshing lemon notes.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Lemon Chicken with Sticky Lemon Sauce and Sesame Seeds Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly lifts your mood with its vibrant flavors and gorgeous textures. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. Trust me when I say that once you try this delightful combination of crispy chicken and tangy, sticky lemon sauce, it will become a permanent favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and share the joy of this irresistible dish with those you love!

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