Salt Pepper Chicken: 7 Steps to Crispy Perfection

Salt Pepper Chicken is an iconic dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a punchy, flavorful seasoning that is hard to resist. This amazing recipe offers a perfect balance of spices and textures, making it a beloved choice for dinner. Whether you’re familiar with this Chinese delicacy or trying it for the first time, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to create this mouthwatering dish at home. Let’s dive into the world of Salt Pepper Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Salt Pepper Chicken

This Salt Pepper Chicken recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. First, it’s incredibly quick, taking only 45 minutes from start to finish. Second, the flavor is sensational, with a perfect kick from the spices. Third, it’s versatile enough to be paired with various sides, including rice or vegetables. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. You’ll also love how it turns out crispy every time, resembling that delicious crispy salt and pepper chicken from your favorite Chinese restaurant. Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it great for family meals or entertaining guests.

Ingredients for Salt Pepper Chicken

Gather these items:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 2-3 green onions, chopped
• 1-2 red or green chili peppers, sliced (optional)
• Cooking oil for frying

How to Make Salt Pepper Chicken Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
2. Step 2: Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using) to the chicken. Mix well and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the cornstarch until fully coated.
4. Step 4: In a large pan or wok, heat enough cooking oil over medium-high heat for frying.
5. Step 5: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Step 6: Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Step 7: In the same pan, add the chopped green onions and sliced chili peppers (if using). Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
8. Step 8: Add the fried chicken back into the pan with the green onions and chilies. Toss well to combine and heat through.
9. Step 9: Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Salt Pepper Chicken

Keep these in mind:

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that crispy texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; work in batches for even cooking.
• For an extra kick, consider adding more chili peppers or a dash of chili powder.
• This method is great for other proteins too; try it with shrimp for a spicy salt chicken twist.

Best Ways to Serve Salt Pepper Chicken

Here are some serving suggestions:

• Pair your Salt and Pepper Chicken with steamed rice or fried rice.
• Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
• For a complete dinner, add Salt Pepper Chicken with vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli.

How to Store and Reheat Salt Pepper Chicken

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, consume within 2-3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness rather than a microwave, which can make it soggy. This is perfect for a quick Salt and Pepper Chicken meal any night of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Salt Pepper Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Salt Pepper Chicken?

The secret lies in the marination and frying technique! Marinating the chicken allows the spices to penetrate, ensuring flavor in every bite. Frying at the right temperature guarantees a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy.

Can I make Salt Pepper Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it in cornstarch ahead of time. Just fry it right before serving for the best crispy results. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Salt Pepper Chicken?

Avoid common pitfalls by ensuring your oil is at the right temperature and not overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken. Follow the steps closely for the best results!

Variations of Salt Pepper Chicken You Can Try

Here are a few delicious twists:

• Try using different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, for a unique take.
• Add additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for a colorful presentation.
• Experiment with different spices to create your own version of pepper salt chicken.
• For a healthier option, bake instead of fry for an easy Salt Pepper Chicken dish.

For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Mediterranean Chickpea Salad. If you’re looking for a great side, consider Roasted Carrot Soup to complement your meal.

For additional insights on cooking techniques, you can refer to Serious Eats for expert frying tips.

Salt Pepper Chicken: 7 Steps to Crispy Perfection

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Salt and Pepper Chicken: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

• Author: Andrew
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 2–3 green onions, chopped
• 1–2 red or green chili peppers, sliced (optional)
• Cooking oil for frying

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
2. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using) to the chicken. Mix well and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the cornstarch until fully coated.
4. In a large pan or wok, heat enough cooking oil over medium-high heat for frying.
5. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. In the same pan, add the chopped green onions and sliced chili peppers (if using). Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
8. Add the fried chicken back into the pan with the green onions and chilies. Toss well to combine and heat through.
9. Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute before serving.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg