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Salt and Pepper Chicken recipe

Homemade Salt and Pepper Chicken – Better Than Takeout

This Salt and Pepper Chicken is a crispy, golden-fried delight seasoned with a bold mix of salt, pepper, garlic, and chili. A popular Chinese takeout favorite, it's easy to make at home using the air fryer, deep fryer, or stovetop!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Asian, Chinese
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine optional
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup cornstarch for extra crispiness
  • 1 egg beaten, for coating
  • Oil for frying or air fryer option below
  • For the Salt And Pepper Seasoning:
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to spice preference
  • For the Garnish:
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red chili finely chopped
  • 1 green chili finely chopped
  • 3 green onions sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
  • In a bowl, mix chicken, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, garlic powder, white pepper, black pepper, salt, and sugar. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
  • Step 2: Coat and Fry the Chicken
  • Dredge marinated chicken in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
  • Dip in beaten egg, then coat again in cornstarch for extra crunch.
  • Air Fryer Method:
  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Spray basket with oil, place chicken in a single layer, and spray the tops lightly with oil.
  • Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and golden.
  • Deep Frying Method:
  • Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  • Step 3: Stir-Fry with Seasoning
  • In a large pan or wok, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add garlic, chilies, and green onions, stir-frying for 30 seconds.
  • Toss in crispy chicken and sprinkle with salt & pepper seasoning mix. Stir well to coat evenly.
  • Step 4: Serve And Enjoy!
  • Serve hot with steamed rice or on its own as an appetizer. Garnish with extra chilies and green onions.

Notes

  • Extra crispy? Double-coat in cornstarch for extra crunch.
  • Mild version? Reduce chili flakes and skip fresh chilies.
  • Want a gluten-free version? Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 30gFat: 12g
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