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Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

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Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances crunchy texture with bold flavors. This Chinese-inspired recipe features tender chicken thighs coated in a crispy cornstarch batter, making it an irresistible option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The aromatic blend of Sichuan peppercorns and black pepper delivers a delightful kick, while the fresh ingredients add layers of flavor. Serve it alongside steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Chinese cooking apple vinegar
  • 1 tbsp grated garlic
  • 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns
  • 1 tbsp black peppercorns
  • 1 tbsp sea salt

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken by combining it with soy sauce, cooking apple vinegar, and grated garlic in a bowl. Allow to sit for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Toast Sichuan and black peppercorns in a dry pan for about 12 minutes until fragrant. Grind them into a powder and mix with sea salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix cornstarch and baking powder. Coat the marinated chicken in this mixture, shaking off any excess starch.
  4. Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces in batches for about 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
  5. In a cleaned wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 15 seconds, then add onion and cook for another two minutes until translucent. Toss in chilies and green onions briefly.
  6. Stir in the prepared salt & pepper mix, then gently fold in the fried chicken until well-coated.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra green onions and additional salt & pepper mix.

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