Salt and Pepper Chicken

Introduction

Salt and Pepper Chicken is a crispy, flavor-packed dish that brings the magic of Chinese takeout right into your kitchen. With bite-sized pieces of chicken fried to golden perfection and tossed with a fragrant mix of garlic, chili, and scallions, this dish delivers a satisfying crunch and a bold, savory punch in every bite. The simple yet classic seasoning of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors, making it an instant favorite.

I still remember the first time I made this at home—the sizzling sound of the chicken frying, the incredible aroma of garlic and spices filling the kitchen, and the way everyone couldn’t stop reaching for more. It’s one of those dishes that’s simple yet irresistibly addictive. Serve it as an appetizer, pair it with rice for a full meal, or enjoy it as a snack—there’s no wrong way to eat Salt and Pepper Chicken!

The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make with just a few key ingredients. A quick marinade, a light coating of seasoned starch, and a short fry time are all it takes to achieve that signature crispy texture. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just craving some restaurant-quality comfort food at home, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

• Quick and easy dinners
• Party appetizers
• Takeout-style meals at home
• Snack cravings
• Sharing with friends and family

Why You’ll Love This Salt and Pepper Chicken

Here’s why Salt and Pepper Chicken is a must-try:

• Crispy and Crunchy Texture: The light, airy coating ensures every bite has a satisfying crunch.
• Savory and Spicy Flavor: The perfect balance of salt, pepper, and chili gives this dish an addictive kick.
• Easy to Make at Home: No need for takeout—this recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or even as a topping for rice or noodles.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the chili to your spice preference for a milder or spicier experience.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Salt and Pepper Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 egg white
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Topping:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 red chilies, sliced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 scallions, chopped
• Extra salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• White and Black Pepper: White pepper provides a milder heat, while black pepper adds a bolder kick. The combination creates the signature seasoning.
• Cornstarch and Flour: A mix of both ensures a crisp, golden crust when fried.
• Chinese Five-Spice Powder: This optional addition enhances the depth of flavor with warm, aromatic spices.
• Fresh Garlic and Chilies: These add a punch of fragrance and spice, making the dish truly authentic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Salt and Pepper Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, white pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, soy sauce, and egg white. Mix well to coat evenly. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, and Chinese five-spice powder (if using).
3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring a light, even coating. Shake off any excess.

Fry the Chicken:

4. Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or wok, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry in Batches: Fry the chicken pieces in small batches for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain on a paper towel.
6. Double Fry (Optional): For an extra crispy texture, fry the chicken a second time for 1-2 minutes until even crispier.

Make the Seasoned Topping:

7. Sauté Aromatics: In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, chilies, and red pepper flakes, stirring until fragrant.
8. Add the Chicken: Toss the fried chicken into the pan, stirring quickly to coat with the aromatic mixture.
9. Finish with Scallions and Seasoning: Sprinkle in the chopped scallions and an extra pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and serve immediately.

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Chicken

Salt and Pepper Chicken is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
• As an Appetizer: Pair with a dipping sauce like sweet chili or garlic soy sauce.
• With Noodles: Toss with stir-fried noodles for a delicious twist.
• In a Wrap: Use the chicken in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
• Alongside Vegetables: Pair with a simple stir-fry or sautéed greens for balance.

Additional Tips for Salt and Pepper Chicken

To make your Salt and Pepper Chicken even better, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Cornstarch for Extra Crispiness – Coating the chicken in cornstarch (or a mix of cornstarch and flour) helps achieve a super crispy texture when fried.
• Double Fry for Maximum Crunch – Fry the chicken once until lightly golden, then fry again at a higher temperature for extra crispiness.
• Marinate for More Flavor – Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, garlic, and white pepper for at least 30 minutes before frying.
• Use High-Quality White Pepper – White pepper is key to the dish’s signature taste, so use a good-quality brand for the best flavor.
• Add a Touch of Five-Spice – A pinch of Chinese five-spice powder can enhance the seasoning mix for a more complex flavor.
• Toss with Aromatics at the End – Stir-fry the fried chicken with garlic, chili, and scallions to boost flavor and aroma.
• Drain on a Wire Rack – Instead of paper towels, let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying to keep it crispy.
• Use Fresh Chilies for Heat – For an extra spicy kick, use finely chopped fresh red chilies instead of or along with dried chili flakes.
• Air Fry or Bake for a Healthier Version – Lightly coat the chicken in oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Serve with a Dipping Sauce – Pair with a simple dipping sauce of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil for an extra flavor boost.

Recipe Variations for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Here are 10 variations to customize your Salt and Pepper Chicken:

• Salt and Pepper Shrimp: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Salt and Pepper Tofu: A vegetarian version using crispy fried tofu.
• Salt and Pepper Pork: Swap chicken for thinly sliced pork pieces.
• Spicy Sichuan Style: Add Sichuan peppercorns for a numbing heat.
• Lemon Pepper Chicken: Use lemon zest for a citrusy variation.
• Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle with honey and chili flakes for a touch of sweetness.
• Extra Garlicky: Increase the garlic for a bolder flavor.
• Air Fryer Version: Use an air fryer for a lighter, healthier option.
• Baked Version: Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Salt and Pepper Wings: Use chicken wings instead of boneless pieces.

Freezing and Storage for Salt and Pepper Chicken

• Freezing: You can freeze the coated, uncooked chicken pieces for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Special Equipment for Salt and Pepper Chicken

To make Salt and Pepper Chicken easier to prepare, consider these tools:

• Deep Fryer or Wok: For frying the chicken evenly.
• Slotted Spoon: Helps remove fried chicken from hot oil safely.
• Thermometer: Ensures oil is at the right temperature for perfect crispiness.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating and coating the chicken.
• Wire Rack: Allows excess oil to drain for crispier results.

Frequently Asked Questions for Salt and Pepper Chicken

1. Can I make this in an air fryer?
   Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
   Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.
3. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Yes, use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
4. How do I keep the chicken crispy?
   Serve immediately and avoid covering it, which traps steam.
5. Can I make this less spicy?
   Simply omit the chilies and red pepper flakes.

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Conclusion

Salt and Pepper Chicken is a simple yet irresistible dish, featuring a crispy coating, fragrant seasoning, and bold, savory flavors. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of crunch and spice, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re serving it as a flavorful appetizer or a satisfying main course, this dish brings takeout-quality goodness straight to your table—no delivery required! Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy it as is for a meal that’s sure to impress.

I’d love to see how your Salt and Pepper Chicken turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!