Name: Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken for a Flavor-Packed Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Cornflour (Cornstarch) (Substitute with all-purpose flour for a different texture.); 1 teaspoon Table Salt (Adjust based on personal preference.); 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (Increase or decrease based on heat tolerance.); 1 teaspoon Chinese Five-Spice (Omit for a simpler taste.); 500 grams Skinless Chicken Thigh Fillets (Substitute with skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.); 240 ml Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with canola or peanut oil for high-heat cooking.); 1 medium Onion (Substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.); 1 each Red & Green Chilli (Use fresno or serrano for medium heat, bell peppers for mild.); 2 cloves Garlic Cloves (Fresh is recommended; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.); 2 spring Spring Onions (Scallions) (Can replace with chives for a different onion flavor.)

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As the aroma of sizzling garlic and vibrant chillies fills the air, I find myself transported to a bustling street market in China, where mouthwatering flavors come alive. This Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken is my favorite way to enjoy a quick weeknight dinner that tastes as good as any takeaway, but without the guilt. With juicy chicken thighs fried to golden perfection and all wrapped up in a spicy, crunchy coat, this dish brings excitement to the dinner table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s easily customizable for every spice lover out there—just switch up the chillies for a perfect heat level to suit your taste. Ready to dive into this delectable experience? Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Why Is Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken Irresistible?

Crispy, Flavorful Crunch: The delightful crunch from the cornflour coating adds an addictive texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level with a variety of chillies, making it easy to tailor this dish to your family’s preferences.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, this meal is the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners.
Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with steamed rice or noodles, or try it alongside a fresh salad for a vibrant twist. Don’t forget to check out our Honey Butter Chicken for another flavorful chicken option!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Enjoyed by all ages, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinner parties.

Salt and Pepper Chicken Ingredients

For the Coating
• Cornflour (Cornstarch) – Provides a crispy coating; substitute with all-purpose flour for a different texture.
• Table Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust based on personal preference.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds spiciness; increase or decrease based on heat tolerance.
• Chinese Five-Spice – Infuses a fragrant depth of flavor; omit for a simpler taste.

For the Chicken
• Skinless Chicken Thigh Fillets – The main protein source, offering moisture and flavor; substitute with skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; can substitute with canola or peanut oil for high-heat cooking.

For the Stir-Fry
• Onion – Adds sweetness and crunch; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Red & Green Chilli – Introduces heat; use fresno or serrano for medium heat, or bell peppers for mild.
• Garlic Cloves – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh is recommended; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Spring Onions (Scallions) – Adds freshness and color; can replace with chives for a different onion flavor.

With these ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from savoring crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious salt and pepper chicken!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine cornflour, table salt, ground black pepper, and Chinese five-spice until evenly mixed. Cut the skinless chicken thigh fillets into bite-sized pieces, then coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Ensure they are well-coated for a crispy texture when frying, setting the stage for this delicious Salt and Pepper Chicken.

Step 2: Heat Oil
In a large, deep skillet or wok, pour in 240 ml of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil begins to shimmer and small bubbles form around the edges, indicating it’s ready for frying. This crucial step ensures that the chicken achieves that coveted golden, crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.

Step 3: Fry Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping the texture crispy for your Salt and Pepper Chicken.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Ingredients
With the frying completed, drain all but 1 tablespoon of oil from the skillet. Return the pan to medium heat and add the chopped onion, red and green chillies, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the aroma fills your kitchen, creating a fragrant backdrop for the chicken.

Step 5: Combine
After the aromatics are slightly browned, toss the crispy chicken back into the pan. Add the chopped spring onions and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute, making sure each piece of chicken is coated with the flavorful mixture. This final step brings all the vibrant elements together for a delicious Salt and Pepper Chicken that’s ready to serve!

Expert Tips for Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken

• Hot Oil Matters: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture in your Salt and Pepper Chicken.

• Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in small batches for even cooking.

• Coating Consistency: Make sure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the cornflour mixture to maximize crunchiness.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and chillies for the best flavor. Dried alternatives may not provide the same aromatic punch.

• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your Salt and Pepper Chicken right after cooking to retain its crispy texture.

What to Serve with Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken

As you savor the crispy textures and spicy notes of this dish, consider pairing it with delightful sides that enhance your dining experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the spicy chicken perfectly, helping to balance the heat and provide a satisfying base.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of vibrant bell peppers, snap peas, and bok choy adds color, crunch, and additional nutrition to your meal.
Garlic Noodles: Rich and buttery with a hint of garlic, these noodles are a perfect match for the flavorful chicken and can soak up all the delicious juices.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch with a touch of vinegar and sesame oil, this salad lightens the meal and offers a contrast to the crispy chicken.
Hot and Sour Soup: A warm bowl of this classic soup provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the chicken and its spiciness, enhancing your meal.
Chilled Beer or Iced Green Tea: Pair your chicken with a cold beer to enhance the flavor or serve iced green tea for a refreshing palate cleanser.
Fried Spring Rolls: These crispy, savory bites make an excellent appetizer, setting the stage for the star of the show, the Salt and Pepper Chicken.

With these vibrant additions, your dinner will come together in a delicious harmony that delights every palate at the table!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken pieces in the seasoned cornflour mixture and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing the flavor while keeping the coating crisp. Alternatively, prepare the chicken and fry it ahead of time; refrigerate the cooked pieces for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, reheat the chicken in an air fryer or oven to restore its crispiness before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply stir-fry the aromatics and toss in the pre-cooked chicken for a quick, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!

Salt and Pepper Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken truly your own by switching up the ingredients and enhancing the flavors!

Spicy Twist: Substitute your preferred chillies for more heat—try using Thai bird’s eye chillies for a fiery kick.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken thighs with firm tofu, pressed and cut into bite-sized cubes, for a delightful vegetarian twist.
Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, like cashews or peanuts, during the stir-fry step for added texture and flavor.
Vibrant Veggies: Add bell peppers or snap peas to the stir-fry for extra color and crunch, boosting your vegetable intake.
Citrusy Freshness: Squeeze lime juice over the finished dish for a zesty finish that brightens all the flavors.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic quantity or add roasted garlic to enhance that aromatic flavor that we all adore at home.
Ginger Boost: Include freshly minced ginger during the stir-fry for a fragrant, spicy twist that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup in the last minute of cooking, balancing the spices with a touch of sweetness.

If you’re interested in trying other similar recipes, you might enjoy our flavorful Honey Butter Chicken or the savory Indian Butter Chicken.

How to Store and Freeze Salt and Pepper Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Salt and Pepper Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the fried chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen chicken directly from the freezer in an air fryer or oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate and coat the chicken in the cornflour mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for a few hours before frying, allowing the flavors to develop.

Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend selecting skinless chicken thigh fillets for their moisture and flavor, which helps create that juicy texture everyone loves. Look for thighs that are plump and have a uniform color—avoid any that have dark spots or excessive liquid. If you prefer leaner meat, skinless chicken breasts can work as a substitute but may not be as tender.

How should I store leftovers of Salt and Pepper Chicken?
Storing is easy! Place any leftover Salt and Pepper Chicken in an airtight container, and it will be good in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat and regain that crispy texture, pop it into an oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze Salt and Pepper Chicken?
Definitely! To freeze, lay the fried chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can reheat them straight from the freezer in an air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes for that crispy goodness!

What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy?
If your Salt and Pepper Chicken doesn’t turn out crispy, don’t fret! First, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. Ideally, it should shimmer and bubble slightly. Fry in smaller batches rather than overcrowding the pan to maintain temperature. If it still isn’t crispy, consider double frying—try frying once, removing the chicken, and then frying again for an extra crunch.

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind for this dish?
Great question! This recipe is gluten-free if you use cornstarch (as opposed to flour) and can be made vegetarian by substituting chicken with firm tofu. As for allergies, always check the ingredients, especially for the Chinese five-spice, as certain blends may contain allergens like sesame. If you’re cooking for pets, avoid giving them any seasoned chicken, as some spices can be harmful to animals.

How can I adjust the spiciness in Salt and Pepper Chicken?
Very easy! The beauty of this dish is in its customization. If you prefer a milder flavor, swap out the red and green chillies for sweet bell peppers or omit them entirely. On the other hand, if you’re looking for more heat, consider using fresno or serrano chillies, or even add some red pepper flakes during the stir-fry stage. Cook according to your taste, and remember: the more, the merrier!