 Emperor Daizong, crediting him for his past achievements, kept him at Chang'an and gave him the honorary title of acting "Sikong" (司空, one of the Three Excellencies) and allowed him to exercise his previously-honorary authorities as a chancellor.He made Li Xilie acting military governor, but stripped the circuit of Bian and Ying (潁州, in modern Fuyang, Anhui) Prefectures, transferring them to Yongping Circuit under Li Mian's command.After Emperor Daizong died later in 779, Li Zhongchen remained as chancellor under Emperor Daizong's son and successor Emperor Dezong.