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Salt and Pepper Chicken

Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken: Your Favorite Takeout Made Easy

Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken brings the flavors of takeout right to your kitchen in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Coating
  • 1 cup Cornflour (cornstarch) Substitute with rice flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Table Salt Can reduce to taste based on dietary needs.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Substitute with white pepper for a milder flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese Five-Spice Omit for a simpler taste or substitute with a pinch of cinnamon and cloves.
For the Chicken
  • 500 grams Chicken Thigh Fillets Can replace with chicken breast for a leaner option.
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil Can use peanut oil for a higher smoke point and enhanced flavor.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 1 each Red & Green Chilli Adjust types based on desired spiciness.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Can use garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 2 stalks Spring Onions (scallions) Omit if unavailable or replace with chopped chives.

Equipment

  • large non-stick pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine cornflour, half of the table salt, half of the ground black pepper, and Chinese five-spice. Take your chicken thigh fillets and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Dredge each piece in the mixture, ensuring an even coating.
  2. In a large non-stick pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don't touch to maintain crispiness. Fry for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
  3. In the same pan, allow a tablespoon of oil to remain, and then add the chopped onion, red and green chillies, and minced garlic. Stir-fry over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
  4. Add the fried chicken back into the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together for an additional minute to combine the flavors.
  5. Finally, stir in the freshly chopped spring onions and give everything a gentle toss. Serve hot, paired with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For batch frying, ensure not to overcrowd the pan and that the oil is at the correct temperature for frying.

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