Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and packed with bold peppery flavor, Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is a dish that will quickly become a go-to favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this Chinese-style chicken offers a delightful crunch combined with aromatic spices that elevate any meal. Its versatility makes it suitable for serving alongside rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes minimal time to prepare and cook, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Sichuan and black peppercorns delivers an irresistible kick.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or even as a filling in wraps.
• Crispy Texture: Coating the chicken with cornstarch ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the number of chilies to cater to your spice tolerance.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken, it’s important to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or deep frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Paper towels or wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or deep frying pan: Ideal for achieving high heat necessary for deep frying.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and mixing dry ingredients without mess.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Perfect for safely flipping chicken pieces while frying.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 400g (14 oz) chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 red Thai chilies, chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Oil for deep frying

Marinade:

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Chinese cooking apple vinegar
• 1 tbsp grated garlic

Salt & Pepper Mix:

• 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns
• 1 tbsp black peppercorns
• 1 tbsp sea salt

How to Make Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the chicken thighs, light soy sauce, Chinese cooking apple vinegar, and grated garlic in a bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Make Salt & Pepper Mix

In a dry pan over medium heat:
1. Toast both Sichuan and black peppercorns for about 12 minutes until fragrant.
2. Grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
3. Mix the ground peppercorns with sea salt in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl:
1. Mix together cornstarch and baking powder thoroughly.
2. Add the marinated chicken pieces to this mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
3. Shake off any excess starch before frying.

Step 4: Deep Fry in Batches

Heat enough oil in your wok or deep frying pan until it’s hot (approximately 350°F):
1. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches.
2. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Drain on paper towels or place on a wire rack to keep them crispy.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Aromatics

In a clean wok:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add finely chopped garlic; stir-fry for about 15 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add diced onion; stir-fry for about 2 minutes until translucent.
4. Toss in chopped chilies and sliced green onions; stir again briefly.

Step 6: Finish with Flavor

Add about 1 teaspoon of your prepared salt & pepper mix to the aromatics:
1. Gently fold in the fried chicken pieces until well-coated with flavors.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt & pepper mix.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer your delicious Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken onto a serving plate:
– Garnish with extra sliced green onions and sprinkle some additional salt & pepper mix on top for that extra kick!

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and packed with bold peppery flavor, this Chinese-style chicken is a fast favorite! Serving it right can enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Rice Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – A light and fragrant option that perfectly balances the bold flavors of the chicken.
• Fried Rice – Add some vegetables and eggs for a hearty side that complements the crispy texture.

Add Fresh Salads

• Cucumber Salad – A refreshing crunch with a tangy dressing that contrasts well with the richness of the chicken.
• Asian Coleslaw – Incorporate sesame oil and rice vinegar for a zesty twist that adds color and flavor.

Enjoy with Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce – A sweet and spicy dip that enhances the peppery notes of the dish.
• Soy Sauce Mix – A simple blend of soy sauce with lime juice for an extra zing.

Best Side Dishes for Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and packed with bold peppery flavor, this Chinese-style chicken is a fast favorite! Pairing it with great sides can make your meal even better.

1. Steamed White Rice – A classic option that acts as a blank canvas for absorbing all the delicious flavors.
2. Garlic Noodles – Toss noodles in garlic butter for a rich side that complements the chicken’s spice.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables – Quickly sauté a mix of broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for added nutrition.
4. Egg Drop Soup – A warm soup that adds comfort to your meal while balancing out the spicy chicken.
5. Spring Rolls – Crunchy rolls filled with vegetables add texture and freshness alongside the crispy chicken.
6. Chilled Noodle Salad – Cold noodles tossed in sesame dressing provide a refreshing contrast to hot chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken can be an enjoyable experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping or shortening the marinating time can result in bland chicken. Always allow at least 15 minutes for the flavors to penetrate the meat.

• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Frying chicken at too low a temperature can cause it to absorb excess oil, making it greasy. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken pieces.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many pieces of chicken at once will lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for optimal results.

• Lack of Flavor in the Coating: Failing to season the cornstarch mixture can leave your chicken bland. Ensure you mix in your salt and pepper mix thoroughly for maximum flavor.

• Skipping Final Seasoning: Not tossing the fried chicken with extra salt and pepper mix after frying can diminish its flavor. Always finish with seasoning just before serving for that extra kick.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze the fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through but note that this may not retain crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken that may help enhance your cooking experience.

How do I make Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken gluten-free?

You can substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can easily swap chicken with beef or turkey if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type of meat used.

What should I serve with Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even noodles for a complete meal.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Consider using tofu instead of chicken. Marinate it similarly before frying for delicious results!

Final Thoughts

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is not only crispy and juicy but also versatile. You can customize this dish by adding vegetables or varying spices according to your preferences. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at gatherings. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!