Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and packed with bold peppery flavor, Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The unique combination of spices and the crispy texture make it a fast favorite among chicken lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The mix of Sichuan peppercorns and black pepper creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, this recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as an appetizer at gatherings; it suits any occasion perfectly.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the number of Thai chilies to suit your spice preference, ensuring everyone enjoys it.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you will need to prepare this flavorful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok: Perfect for frying due to its shape, allowing even heat distribution.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and marinating the chicken effectively.
• Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: Ensures that the chicken gets crispy by providing enough hot oil for frying.

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. Combine chicken pieces with light soy sauce, cooking apple vinegar, and grated garlic in a mixing bowl.
2. Let sit for 15 minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 2: Make Salt & Pepper Mix

1. In a dry pan, toast both Sichuan and black peppercorns over medium heat for about 12 minutes until fragrant.
2. Grind the toasted peppercorns into a fine powder and mix with sea salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

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

Step 4: Deep Fry in Batches

1. Heat enough oil in the wok for deep frying.
2. Once hot, fry the coated chicken pieces in batches for about 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Drain on paper towels or place on a wire rack to keep crispy.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Aromatics

1. In a clean wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped garlic; 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 sliced green onions; stir again briefly.

Step 6: Finish with Flavor

1. Add 1 teaspoon of the salt & pepper mix to the aromatics; stir well to combine.
2. Fold in fried chicken pieces gently to ensure they are well-coated with flavor.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt & pepper mix if necessary.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer your delicious Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken onto a serving plate. Garnish with extra green onions and sprinkle some more salt & pepper mix on top before serving! Enjoy this tasty dish warm!

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Serving Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that complement its bold flavors and crispy texture.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch.
• Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro for an aromatic touch.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: Offers a sweet and spicy kick that balances the peppery chicken.
• Soy Sauce with Vinegar: A simple mix that enhances the savory aspects of the dish.

Create a Complete Meal

• Serve over Rice: Place the chicken on a bed of jasmine or brown rice to soak up flavors.
• With Noodles: Toss it with stir-fried noodles for a satisfying meal option.

How to Perfect Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Achieving the perfect Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish.

• bold Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, enhancing flavor absorption.
• bold Use Fresh Spices: Freshly toasted spices give a more aromatic and vibrant flavor profile.
• bold Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to create that desired crispiness.
• bold Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to prevent steaming, which can make the chicken soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Complement your Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken with these delightful side dishes. They enhance the meal while providing a variety of textures and flavors.

1. bold Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color.
2. bold Fried Rice: Flavored rice mixed with vegetables creates a hearty, satisfying side.
3. bold Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil provides contrast to the crispy chicken.
4. bold Garlic Noodles: Rich garlic noodles offer a savory counterpart to the spiciness of the chicken.
5. bold Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles add zest, balancing out rich flavors perfectly.
6. bold Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fried bok choy adds nutrition while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Over-marinating the chicken: Marinating for too long can make the chicken mushy. Stick to 15 minutes for the best texture.
• Skipping the cornstarch coating: Not coating the chicken in cornstarch results in less crispy skin. Ensure an even coat and shake off excess starch.
• Using insufficient oil for frying: Frying in too little oil leads to uneven cooking. Use enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces.
• Not heating oil properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Test by dropping a small piece of chicken; it should sizzle immediately.
• Neglecting aromatics: Skipping the stir-fried garlic, onions, and chilies means missing out on flavor. Sauté them briefly before adding the fried chicken for depth of taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, but this may affect crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken:

What makes Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken so flavorful?

The combination of Sichuan peppercorns, black peppercorns, and fresh aromatics creates a bold flavor profile that enhances the juicy chicken.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute beef or turkey based on your preferences.

How do I ensure my chicken stays crispy after cooking?

To retain crispiness, avoid covering the chicken once cooked. Store it uncovered if possible, or reheat it in an oven rather than a microwave.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

You can replace the chicken with crispy tofu or tempeh, maintaining similar cooking techniques for a plant-based version.

Final Thoughts

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it with different spices or herbs based on your taste preferences. This dish is sure to impress at any dinner table—give it a try!