This Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken is a winner with its crunchy skin and tasty seasoning. It’s easy to make and perfect for anyone craving a bit of comfort food!
You can’t go wrong with the simple combo of salt and pepper—it really brings out the chicken’s flavor. I love serving it with a side of crispy fries for a fun meal! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Salt and Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is key for the best flavor! If someone can’t handle spice, simply omit the white pepper.
Five-Spice Powder: This adds a nice depth of flavor, but if you don’t have it, feel free to skip it or use a pinch of your favorite seasoning mix.
Flours and Cornstarch: I find that the combination of cornstarch and all-purpose flour gives the crispiest coating. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with rice flour or a gluten-free blend.
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Crispy Chicken?
The secret to that perfect crispy texture is all in the frying technique! Here are some tips to get it just right.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough (170-180°C or 340-350°F) before adding the chicken, or else it will turn soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Let the fried chicken drain on paper towels to remove excess oil and maintain crispiness.
Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder (optional for flavor depth)
For the Aromatics:
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small shallot or red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 fresh red chilies, thinly sliced
For the Coating:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro or green onion, chopped
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes of preparation time and an additional 15-20 minutes for frying. You’ll enjoy crispy chicken goodness in under an hour—perfect for a quick, tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Add salt, black pepper, white pepper, and five-spice powder if you’re using it. Mix everything well and let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the chicken absorb all those yummy flavors!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In another bowl, whisk the egg and water together until combined. Then, in yet another bowl, mix the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and baking powder. This mixture will create a crispy coating for the chicken.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each marinated chicken piece and first dip it into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Next, dredge it in the flour mixture until it’s fully coated. Make sure each piece is evenly covered for that perfect crunch!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan or wok, heat enough vegetable oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces. Aim for a temperature of 170-180°C (340-350°F). You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a small bit of the batter; if it sizzles, it’s time to fry!
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
6. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a separate small skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sliced shallots, and red chilies, sautéing just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them—this step is about releasing their delicious aromas!
7. Combine and Season:
Once the chicken is crispy, toss it in a bowl with the sautéed aromatics. Give it a good sprinkle of extra salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the flavorful crispy chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately to enjoy its crunchiness!
This recipe yields crispy, flavorful chicken with a fragrant salt and pepper coating enhanced by fresh aromatics and chilies. Perfect as a snack or main dish, enjoy every delicious bite!
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Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before marinating to ensure a crispy coating.
Can I Prepare the Chicken in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to coat and fry. This will enhance the flavors even more!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness, rather than using a microwave.
What to Serve with Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or a simple salad. You can also serve it with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for an extra kick!
