Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is a delightful dish that quickly becomes a favorite at any gathering. This Chinese-style chicken is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even as a standout option for meal prep. Its bold peppery taste and crunchy texture make it a unique addition to your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and aromatics creates a mouthwatering experience that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or party snack; it suits various occasions effortlessly.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili level to suit your taste preferences, making it enjoyable for everyone.
• Satisfying Crunch: The crispy coating not only adds texture but also locks in the juiciness of the chicken.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools ensures a smooth cooking process and enhances your overall experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok: Ideal for deep frying due to its shape, which helps maintain oil temperature.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating ingredients and mixing dry elements effectively.
• Deep frying thermometer: Ensures the oil is at the right temperature for crispy results.
• Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess oil from fried chicken without losing any pieces.

Ingredients

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

Combine chicken, soy sauce, cooking apple vinegar, and garlic in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Make Salt & Pepper Mix

Toast both Sichuan and black peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat for about 12 minutes until fragrant. Grind them into a fine powder and mix with sea salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, mix cornstarch and baking powder. Add the marinated chicken pieces to this mixture and coat them well. Shake off any excess starch before frying.

Step 4: Deep Fry in Batches

Heat enough oil in your wok for deep frying. Once hot (around 350°F/175°C), fry the chicken pieces in batches for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels or place on a wire rack to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Aromatics

In a clean wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic first and stir for about 15 seconds. Then add diced onion and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they soften. Next, incorporate chopped chilies and sliced green onions, stirring again until fragrant.

Step 6: Finish with Flavor

Add approximately 1 teaspoon of your salt & pepper mix into the wok and stir well. Carefully add the fried chicken pieces to the wok and toss everything together until well coated. Taste and season further if necessary with more salt & pepper mix.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer your delicious Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken onto a serving plate. Garnish with additional green onions and sprinkle some extra salt & pepper mix on top before serving to enhance presentation.

Enjoy your homemade crispy delight!

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Serving Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is all about enhancing its bold flavors while maintaining its crispy texture. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Pair with Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice complements the savory flavors of the chicken, providing a neutral base that balances the dish’s spice.

Create a Stir-Fry Bowl

• Add a mix of vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli for a colorful stir-fry bowl. Top it with the crispy chicken for a hearty meal.

Serve with Dipping Sauce

• A tangy dipping sauce made from vinegar and chili sauce can enhance the flavor profile. It adds an extra kick that pairs well with the crispy texture.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh cilantro or basil adds a refreshing touch. Sprinkle them on top before serving to brighten up the dish.

How to Perfect Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Perfecting Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken requires attention to detail throughout the cooking process. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect crunch.

• Marinate properly – Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes ensures it absorbs all the flavors, making it more delicious.

• Use the right oil – Choose oils with high smoke points, like vegetable oil, for frying. This helps achieve a crispy exterior without burning.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure each piece cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.

• Monitor frying time – Keep an eye on cooking time; over-frying can lead to dry chicken while under-frying may result in soggy pieces.

• Let it rest – After frying, let the chicken rest on paper towels or a wire rack. This allows excess oil to drain, keeping it crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Vegetable Stir-Fry – A medley of colorful vegetables quickly sautéed in garlic sauce provides freshness and crunch alongside your chicken.

2. Garlic Noodles – These flavorful noodles tossed in garlic butter add a rich taste that complements the spicy chicken perfectly.

3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a cool contrast to the warm, crispy chicken.

4. Fried Rice – Packed with vegetables and soy sauce, fried rice is filling and works well when served with crispy chicken bites.

5. Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds texture and zest to your plate.

6. Miso Soup – A light miso soup serves as a comforting addition, balancing out the bold flavors of your main dish.

7. Chili Garlic Edamame – These seasoned edamame pods provide protein along with a spicy kick that matches beautifully with crispy chicken.

8. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked or fried sweet potato fries add sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory notes of your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse the meat with taste.

• Overcrowding the Fryer: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy results. Fry in small batches for a crispy texture.

• Not Heating Oil Properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.

• Ignoring the Coating: Failing to shake off excess cornstarch can lead to clumpy batter. Ensure you coat evenly and remove any extra starch before frying.

• Using Stale Spices: Old spices can diminish flavor intensity. Always use fresh spices for your salt and pepper mix to maximize flavor.

• Neglecting Aromatics: Skipping the stir-frying of garlic, onions, and chilies will miss out on an aromatic depth. Don’t rush this step; it adds essential flavor layers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in short intervals until warm but be cautious as it may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and fry chicken pieces until heated through, maintaining some crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken.

What is Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is a Chinese-style dish featuring marinated chicken that’s deep-fried until golden brown and tossed with a flavorful seasoning mix of salt and pepper.

How can I make my Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of red Thai chilies or incorporate other spicy elements like chili flakes or hot sauce into your marinade.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or beef if you prefer a different protein option while maintaining similar flavors.

How do I store leftovers from Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage, ensuring they are well-sealed.

Final Thoughts

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding vegetables during cooking. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!