As I rolled up my sleeves in the kitchen the other day, the rich, savory aroma of garlic hit me like a warmth from the oven. It was the perfect backdrop for my latest culinary adventure: Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken. This dish perfectly combines a satisfying crunch with a hint of spice, making it a go-to choice for a cozy dinner or a fun game-day snack. Plus, it’s surprisingly quick to make and completely customizable—swap in tofu or prawns if you’re looking for a twist. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has captured the hearts of home chefs everywhere. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the details! Why is Salt and Pepper Chicken So Beloved? Crispy Texture: Each bite of this Salt and Pepper Chicken offers a perfect crunch, thanks to the cornstarch coating, creating a delightful contrast with tender chicken inside. Customizable Flavor: Want to switch things up? You can easily substitute chicken with tofu or prawns for a unique take, making this dish versatile for different dietary preferences. Quick to Prepare: With a marination time and quick frying, you can have this flavorful dish ready in no time—ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Crowd Favorite: Its savory and mildly spicy flavor profile ensures it appeals to a wide array of palates, perfect for serving at parties or game days. Comforting Aroma: The enticing blend of garlic and spice creates an aroma that fills your kitchen and gets everyone excited for what’s to come. Once you try it, you’ll realize why this dish is a staple in many homes, just like the amazing Bang Bang Chicken or the comforting Lemon Chicken Orzo. Salt and Pepper Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless Chicken Thigh (1 lb) – This is the main protein source, providing a rich, juicy flavor. Substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option. • Cornstarch (1 cup) – Essential for that crispy coating when frying; no substitutes will achieve the same texture. • Frying Oil – Use high-heat oil like canola or peanut oil for frying the chicken to perfection. For the Marinade • Lemon Juice (2 tbsp) – Adds a brightness to the marinade; lime juice works well as a substitute if needed. • Garlic Powder (1 tbsp) – Enhances flavor in the marinade; fresh garlic can add more punch. • Grated Ginger (½ tsp) – This spice adds warmth; fresh ginger is preferred for its bold flavor. • Brown Sugar (1 tsp) – Balances spice with a hint of sweetness; white sugar can be an alternative. • Salt (½ tsp + ½ tsp) – Enhances flavors; adjust to your taste preference. • Chicken Powder (1 tbsp + ½ tbsp) – Adds umami depth; can be skipped for a lower sodium version or substituted with vegetable powder. • White Pepper (1 tsp) – Provides mild heat with a unique flavor; black pepper can be used instead. • Paprika Powder (1 tsp) – Adds color and a slight sweetness; substitute with cayenne for more heat. For Sautéing • Garlic, minced (2 cloves) – Brings a fresh garlic aroma when sautéed; use garlic powder if needed. • Curly Red Pepper (3 pieces) – Adds garnish and freshness; green bell pepper can substitute. • Cayenne Pepper (2 pieces) – Infuses heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance. • Lime Leaves (10 pieces) – Enhances aroma; recommended for authentic flavor but can be omitted. • Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Additional seasoning to enhance that signature taste; tweak to your liking. • White Sugar (1 tsp) – Balances savory elements; can be omitted for a more savory dish. Dive into this delightful Salt and Pepper Chicken recipe, and you’ll see why it’s a cherished favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken Step 1: Marinate Chicken Begin by cutting your boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with lemon juice, garlic powder, grated ginger, brown sugar, salt, chicken powder, white pepper, and paprika. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated evenly, then cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to enhance the flavors. Step 2: Coat Chicken After marinating, remove the chicken from the fridge and prepare a plate with cornstarch. One piece at a time, dredge the marinated chicken in cornstarch, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispy texture when frying the salt and pepper chicken. Set aside the coated chicken pieces on a clean plate. Step 3: Fry Chicken Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough frying oil to cover the bottom of the pan—about 1 inch deep should suffice. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crisp on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. Step 4: Sauté Aromatics In a separate pan, heat a touch of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and lime leaves, sautéing them until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as you want to release their flavors without letting them scorch. The aroma should fill your kitchen, adding depth to your crispy salt and pepper chicken dish. Step 5: Combine Once the aromatics are ready, add the fried chicken pieces back to the skillet. Sprinkle in the curly red pepper, cayenne pepper, additional salt, chicken powder, black pepper, and white sugar. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each piece of chicken is well coated with the fragrant spices and seasonings. This is where all the magic happens, merging those delightful flavors. Step 6: Serve Your crispy salt and pepper chicken is now ready to impress! Serve it hot as an appetizer or a side dish, paired beautifully with steamed rice or in lettuce wraps for a fresh crunch. Garnish with some additional red pepper or lime leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor, and enjoy the satisfying explosion of tastes in every bite! What to Serve with Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken Elevate your meal with delightful side dishes that perfectly harmonize with this crispy, flavor-packed dish. Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the savory flavors of the chicken while adding a soothing element to the dish. Fresh Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch, perfectly balancing the savory spices. Garlic Sauce Noodles: Savory noodles with a hint of garlic and chili complement the chicken’s flavors, adding a delightful texture and taste contrast. Crunchy Lettuce Wraps: Perfect for a fun, interactive meal, crisp lettuce wraps added a fresh layer that delights your taste buds. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies stir-fried with a touch of soy sauce add brightness and nutrition, enhancing the overall meal experience. Chili Garlic Dip: A zesty dip brings an extra kick to your crispy chicken, inviting everyone to enjoy those satisfying flavors alongside. Crispy Wontons: Easy-to-make wontons serve as a delightful appetizer that contrasts the crunchiness of the chicken, adding another layer of fun to your feast. Cold Beer or Sparkling Water: Pair your meal with a cold drink—light beers or refreshing sparkling water cleanse the palate, making every bite an adventure. How to Store and Freeze Salt and Pepper Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain the crispy texture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months. Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy. Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your Salt and Pepper Chicken with fresh sides like steamed rice or in a salad after storage, enhancing comfort food vibes. Expert Tips for Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming, which can diminish the crispy texture you desire. Double Fry Technique: For an extra crunchy finish, consider double frying the chicken. Fry once for 5 minutes, set aside, then fry again until golden brown. Proper Marinade Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to overnight if possible. This ensures the flavors penetrate the meat thoroughly for the best salt and pepper chicken taste. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger rather than dried to pack a bigger flavor punch in your marinade and sauté, creating more aromatic depth. Drain Oil Well: After frying, drain the chicken on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil, preserving the crispy coating and preventing sogginess. Salt and Pepper Chicken Variations Looking to personalize your Salt and Pepper Chicken? Here are some delightful twists to suit your taste buds. Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk in the marinade for a richness without dairy. Vegetarian: Swap chicken for yellow tofu, marinated in the same flavorful blend for a plant-based alternative. Seafood Delight: Replace chicken with prawns, cooking them just until tender for a seafood spin. Quick Fix: Use frozen chicken nuggets for a speedy dinner solution; just toss them in your salt and pepper mix before serving. Extra Crunch: Add crushed cornflakes or panko to the cornstarch for an even crunchier coating. Spicy Kick: Mix in some Sriracha or chili sauce to the marinade for heat lovers. Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro in the sauté for a fresh flavor boost. Citrusy Zing: Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a tangy twist that brightens the dish. As you explore these variations, you might also enjoy the flavors from popular dishes like Honey Bourbon Chicken or the comforting notes of Chicken Ranch Macaroni. Happy cooking! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken pieces are absolutely perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. After marinating, coat the chicken with cornstarch and store it in an airtight container. For the best quality, refrigerate it if you plan to fry within 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your oil and fry the chicken until golden brown—this way, it remains just as delicious and crispy as when freshly made. With this prep plan, you’ll have a satisfying dish ready for busy weeknights with minimal effort! Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for Salt and Pepper Chicken? Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are ideal as they provide a rich, juicy flavor, but you can use chicken breasts for a leaner option. Both options will deliver delicious results! How should I store leftovers? Very! Store any leftover Salt and Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain that crispy texture, be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. Can I freeze Salt and Pepper Chicken? Yes, you can! To freeze, first lay the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven for a crisp finish. What should I do if the chicken isn’t crispy? Oh no! If your Salt and Pepper Chicken isn’t crispy, you may have overcrowded the pan while frying. Try frying in smaller batches to maintain oil temperature. Alternatively, you can give it a second fry for that extra crunch—just fry it for a few more minutes after the initial cook. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious with the ingredients like soy or chicken powder, as they may contain allergens. You can opt for a vegetable powder for a lower sodium version and substitute traditional frying oil with a preferred alternative if needed. How can I enhance the flavor of my Chicken? To elevate the flavor profile even more, make sure to marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. This allows those spices to fully permeate the chicken. For an aromatic twist, try sautéing fresh garlic and ginger before combining them with the chicken. This step adds an extra burst of flavor! Irresistibly Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe You’ll Love Enjoy this crispy and savory Salt and Pepper Chicken recipe that's quick to prepare and customizable to your taste. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsMarination Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AsianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 lb Boneless Chicken Thigh Substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option.1 cup Cornstarch Essential for crispy coating.Frying Oil Use high-heat oil like canola or peanut oil.For the Marinade2 tbsp Lemon Juice Lime juice works well as a substitute.1 tbsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for more flavor.½ tsp Grated Ginger Use fresh ginger for best flavor.1 tsp Brown Sugar White sugar can be an alternative.1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.1.5 tbsp Chicken Powder Can be skipped for a lower sodium version.1 tsp White Pepper Black pepper can be used instead.1 tsp Paprika Powder Substitute with cayenne for more heat.For Sautéing2 cloves Garlic, minced Use garlic powder if needed.3 pieces Curly Red Pepper Green bell pepper can substitute.2 pieces Cayenne Pepper Adjust for spice tolerance.10 pieces Lime Leaves Recommended for authentic flavor.½ tsp Black Pepper Adjust to liking.1 tsp White Sugar Can be omitted if desired. Equipment large mixing bowlSkilletSlotted spoonPaper Towelswire rack Method Step 1: Marinate ChickenCut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Combine with lemon juice, garlic powder, grated ginger, brown sugar, salt, chicken powder, white pepper, and paprika. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.Step 2: Coat ChickenDredge marinated chicken pieces in cornstarch to achieve a crispy texture. Set aside.Step 3: Fry ChickenPreheat skillet, add frying oil. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crisp.Step 4: Sauté AromaticsSauté minced garlic and lime leaves in a separate pan until fragrant.Step 5: CombineCombine fried chicken with sautéed aromatics and seasonings. Toss to coat.Step 6: ServeServe hot as an appetizer or side dish, garnished with additional red pepper or lime leaves. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesFry in batches for even cooking. Consider double frying for extra crunch. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
