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Whispers of sizzling oil fill the kitchen as I prepare to unveil my take on a beloved classic—Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken. This dish is not just a quick weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor-packed journey that offers the irresistible crunch of juicy chicken thighs wrapped in a deliciously spiced cornflour coat. With each bite, the tantalizing combination of garlic, chillies, and spring onions invites you to experience a homemade meal that feels as comforting as your favorite takeaway. What’s more, this delightful recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you crave something truly special without the fuss. Are you ready to bring the taste of Chinese-style takeaway right into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why is this Chicken Recipe Amazing?
Quick and Easy: This Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken can be prepared in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Explosion: A vibrant blend of garlic, chillies, and spring onions creates an exciting taste that transports you to your favorite Chinese takeaway.
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Ultimate Crunch: Achieve the perfect crispy exterior thanks to the seasoned cornflour coating, making every bite satisfyingly crunchy.
Versatile Ingredient Options: Easily customize this dish with vegetables or protein substitutes, allowing for a delightful vegetarian twist, just like my Cheesy Chicken Roll.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish appeals to everyone at the table, becoming a go-to favorite that will have your family asking for seconds!
Salt and Pepper Chicken Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to making the perfect salt and pepper chicken with these essential ingredients!
For the Coating
- Cornflour (Cornstarch) – Provides crispiness to the chicken; substitute with potato starch for a gluten-free option.
- Table Salt – Enhances flavors; use less if substituting with seasoned salt.
- Ground Black Pepper – Adds spice and warmth; to reduce heat, consider using white pepper or omit.
- Chinese Five-Spice – Introduces aromatic complexity; can be replaced with a blend of cinnamon and black pepper if unavailable.
For the Chicken
- Skinless Chicken Thigh Fillets – Main protein known for juiciness and flavor; boneless chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out quicker.
- Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; can substitute with canola or peanut oil for a different flavor profile.
For the Flavoring
- Onion – Adds sweetness and texture; shallots may be used for a milder taste.
- Red and Green Chillies – Provide heat; replace with bell peppers for a milder dish, or adjust according to your spice preference.
- Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic depth; no direct substitute, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Spring Onions (Scallions) – Freshness and crunch; can substitute with chives for a similar taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
In a medium mixing bowl, combine cornflour, half the salt, black pepper, and Chinese five-spice. Stir well until evenly mixed, creating a seasoned coating that will give your Salt and Pepper Chicken its delightful crunch. This flavorful blend will enhance the juiciness of the chicken during frying.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Take your skinless chicken thigh fillets and cut them into quarters. Gently toss the chicken pieces in the prepared cornflour mixture, ensuring they are completely coated. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior, so make sure each piece is well-covered before moving on to frying.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a wok or deep skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the base and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). The oil should shimmer but not smoke; this indicates it’s hot enough for frying. You can test readiness by dropping in a small piece of the coating; it should sizzle immediately upon contact with the oil.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn the pieces occasionally for even cooking. Once done, transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Aromatics
In the same wok, remove excess oil, leaving about one tablespoon. Add sliced onions, red and green chillies, and minced garlic. Stir-fry these aromatics over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the onions are soft and the garlic is fragrant. This step will build a delightful flavor base for your crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Aromatics
Gently add the fried chicken back into the wok with the sautéed onions and chillies. Toss everything together carefully for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring each piece of chicken is well mixed with the fragrant vegetables. The heat from the wok will meld the flavors beautifully.
Step 7: Finish with Spring Onions
Finally, stir in the chopped spring onions, allowing them to wilt slightly. This fresh addition will enhance the flavor profile of your Salt and Pepper Chicken and add a touch of color to the dish. Cook this for another minute before removing from heat.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Serve your sizzling Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken immediately, ideally with steamed jasmine rice or noodles to soak up the flavors. Pairing it with a simple side will make this quick weeknight dinner a delightful experience for your family and friends.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic dish, inviting flavors and personal touches into your kitchen!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets, adjusting cooking times for a lovely meat-free option. The crispy exterior will make you forget it’s not chicken!
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Colorful Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and vibrant colors in your dish. These fresh veggies will complement the flavors perfectly while adding crunch.
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Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, toss in some extra chopped chillies or a dash of Szechuan peppercorns. This variation will tantalize your taste buds with an invigorating flavor explosion!
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Crispy Baked Version: Brush your coated chicken in olive oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) until crispy for a healthier alternative. Baking delivers a delightful crunch with less oil.
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Soy Sauce Fusion: Drizzle a bit of soy sauce over the finished dish before serving. This adds umami depth, reminiscent of favorite takeout experiences, much like my Easy Cream Cheese Chicken.
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Curry Flavor: Mix curry powder with your coating spice blend for an unexpected twist. This fusion creates a fragrant experience that will surprise and delight!
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Citrus Burst: Add a sprinkle of lime or lemon juice just before serving for a light, zesty finish. The brightness will elevate the dish to a new level of freshness.
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Honey Glaze Finish: Drizzle a bit of honey mixed with soy sauce over the finished chicken for a sweet and savory contrast. It’s a simple way to add a touch of decadence, perfect for impressing guests!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create a personalized version of your favorite salt and pepper chicken!
Make Ahead Options
Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken is perfect for busy weeknight meal prep! You can coat the chicken thighs in the seasoned cornflour mixture and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you precious time during dinner. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry the coated chicken until golden and crispy. To maintain the chicken’s crunchiness, avoid overcrowding the pan during frying, ensuring even cooking. With this make-ahead option, you can enjoy restaurant-quality results at home with minimal effort after a long day!
What to Serve with Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken
Transform your savory chicken dish into a complete, satisfying meal with these delightful pairings.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, jasmine rice absorbs the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a harmonious balance.
- Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles provide an extra layer of richness that beautifully complements the crisp chicken.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds freshness and slight crunch, enhancing texture variety.
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad brings coolness to the table, offering a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Egg Fried Rice: This classic side is flavorful and filling, making it a comforting pairing that your family will love.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy, they echo the chicken’s texture while adding a delightful crunch with a flavorful filling.
- Chilled Green Tea: A soothing drink option, this tea helps cleanse the palate after indulging in the rich flavors of your meal.
- Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert, featuring sticky rice topped with luscious mango slices.
- Peanut Sauce: A creamy, nutty dip served alongside enhances the savory notes from the chicken and adds a unique flavor twist.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing bite of seasonal fruits can cleanse your palate beautifully after savoring the salty, spicy chicken.
Expert Tips for Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken
• Heat the Oil Correctly: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; use a thermometer or test with a small piece of batter. This helps avoid sogginess in your Salt and Pepper Chicken.
• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to maintain the oil temperature, ensuring even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Perfect the Coating: Make sure each chicken piece is fully coated in the cornflour mix for that desirable crunch. An uneven coating may lead to soft patches.
• Fresh Serve: For the best flavor and texture, serve immediately after cooking. Leftovers can lose their crispiness if stored or reheated improperly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by varying the amount of chillies or switching to milder options like bell peppers, especially if serving to kids or spice-sensitive guests.
How to Store and Freeze Salt and Pepper Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftover Salt and Pepper Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the coated but uncooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To revive leftover chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or use an air fryer to regain its crispy texture.
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Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the coating and coat the chicken ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to fry, streamlining your cooking process on busy weeknights.
Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
I highly recommend using skinless chicken thigh fillets for this recipe, as they are incredibly juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can also use boneless chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they tend to dry out quicker during frying, so be cautious with cooking times.
How should I store leftover crispy salt and pepper chicken?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can make the coating soggy.
Can I freeze the chicken before cooking?
Absolutely! For freezing, coat the raw chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture and lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw—just fry directly from frozen, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How can I reheat leftover crispy salt and pepper chicken without losing its crunch?
To reheat your leftover chicken, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, using an air fryer can help retain that amazing crunch—just pop them in for about 5-7 minutes until they’re crispy and piping hot.
What can I do if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying?
If you find your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, you may need to check the oil temperature. Make sure it’s hot enough before adding the chicken, as this helps create that perfect crunchy exterior. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to sogginess.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This recipe contains gluten due to the cornflour; however, if you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with potato starch. Additionally, keep in mind that the dish includes chicken and can be spicy due to the chillies; adjust the heat level to suit your family’s preferences, especially if serving kids or those sensitive to spice.
Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cornflour, half the salt, black pepper, and Chinese five-spice. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Take your chicken thigh fillets and cut them into quarters. Toss the chicken pieces in the cornflour mixture until completely coated.
- In a wok or deep skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F).
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, frying each for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- In the same wok, remove excess oil, leaving about one tablespoon. Add sliced onions, red and green chillies, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Gently add the fried chicken back into the wok with the aromatics. Toss together for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped spring onions and cook for another minute before removing from heat.
- Serve your crispy salt and pepper chicken immediately, ideally with steamed jasmine rice or noodles.
