Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional Chinese cuisine. This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal. The perfect balance of spice and crunch makes it irresistible for both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of Sichuan peppercorns and black pepper brings a unique kick.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or pair it with rice or noodles.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer chilies.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok
• Mixing bowls
• Deep frying thermometer
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok: Ideal for frying due to its shape, allowing even heat distribution.
• Mixing Bowls: Useful for marinating chicken and mixing dry ingredients efficiently.
• Deep Frying Thermometer: Ensures oil is at the right temperature for crispy results.

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Ingredients

Crispy, juicy, and packed with bold peppery flavor, this Chinese-style chicken is a fast favorite!

For the Chicken

• 400g (14 oz) chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking powder

For the Aromatics

• 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

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, cooking apple vinegar, and grated garlic.
2. Let it marinate for 15 minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 2: Make Salt & Pepper Mix

1. Toast the Sichuan and black peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat for about 12 minutes until fragrant.
2. Grind the toasted mix into powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
3. Combine with sea salt in a small bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. In another bowl, mix cornstarch and baking powder together.
2. Add the marinated chicken pieces into this mixture and coat thoroughly.
3. Shake off any excess starch before frying.

Step 4: Deep Fry in Batches

1. Heat enough oil in a wok over medium-high heat for deep frying.
2. Once hot (around 170°C/340°F), carefully add chicken pieces in batches.
3. Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Drain on paper towels or place them on a wire rack to keep them crispy.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Aromatics

1. In a clean wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic first; stir-fry for about 15 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add diced onion; stir-fry for approximately 2 minutes until translucent.
4. Incorporate chopped chilies and green onions; stir once more.

Step 6: Finish with Flavor

1. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of your prepared salt & pepper mix into the wok; stir well to combine flavors.
2. Add your crispy fried chicken pieces into the wok; toss everything together until well coated.
3. Taste your dish; adjust seasoning with more salt & pepper mix if desired.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer your delicious Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken onto a serving plate. Garnish with extra green onions and sprinkle additional salt & pepper mix on top if preferred! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Serving Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is all about enhancing its delightful flavors. This dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that complement its bold peppery taste.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice makes a perfect base, soaking up the flavorful juices from the chicken.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the crispy chicken over a fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• Use crisp lettuce leaves as wraps for the chicken. Add some shredded carrots and herbs for extra crunch and flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a spicy garlic sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.

As Part of a Stir-Fry

• Toss the crispy chicken into a stir-fry with seasonal vegetables for a hearty meal packed with textures and flavors.

How to Perfect Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Perfecting your Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken can elevate your cooking game. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Marinate well: Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes allows it to absorb maximum flavor.

• Use high heat: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. This helps achieve that crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

• Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Frying in smaller batches ensures even cooking and better crispiness.

• Toast peppercorns: Toasting Sichuan and black peppercorns enhances their flavors, making your seasoning more aromatic.

• Drain properly: After frying, drain the chicken on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil for a lighter dish.

Best Side Dishes for Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition and a vibrant color contrast to your plate.

2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with vegetables complements the crispy chicken perfectly, creating harmony in texture.

3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing provides a cooling effect against the spiciness of the chicken.

4. Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles bring an umami kick that pairs nicely with this dish’s bold flavors.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and sweetness, rounding out your meal beautifully.

6. Egg Drop Soup: A light egg drop soup offers warmth and comfort that balances out the crispy nature of the chicken.

7. Spring Rolls: Crunchy spring rolls filled with vegetables make for an excellent appetizer or side dish alongside your main course.

8. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad loaded with veggies is both healthy and filling, making it an ideal companion to your crispy delight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key factors that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in smaller batches for a crispy texture.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take time to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance taste.

• Ignoring Temperature Control: Cooking at too high or low of a temperature can cause uneven cooking. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is hot enough but not smoking.

• Not Coating Properly: Failing to coat the chicken evenly with cornstarch can lead to inconsistent crispiness. Make sure each piece is well-coated and shake off excess starch.

• Using Old Oil: Reusing oil too many times can impart undesirable flavors. Use fresh oil for frying to maintain the purity of taste in your Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Note this may reduce crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of oil, turning frequently until warmed through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken that might help you while cooking this delightful dish.

Can I use other meats for Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?

Yes, you can use turkey or beef as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat’s thickness.

What can I serve with Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I achieve extra crispiness?

For extra crunch, double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into cornstarch after the first coat sets.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes red Thai chilies which add heat. You can adjust the amount according to your spice preference or omit them entirely for milder flavor.

Can I make Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time by frying it earlier in the day. Just reheat it before serving for optimal crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is not just delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding different spices or vegetables. This dish is sure to impress family and friends—give it a try!