Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe: Easy ,Recipe in 2025

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If you’re craving something crispy, savory, and incredibly satisfying, salt and pepper chicken might just become your new go-to dish. This classic recipe combines bold flavors with simple ingredients, creating a mouthwatering meal that you can whip up in less than 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that impresses guests and satisfies weeknight hunger pangs without the hassle of complicated cooking techniques.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create the ultimate salt and pepper chicken at home. From selecting the right ingredients to perfecting that irresistible crispy coating, we’ve got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Salt and pepper chicken isn’t just easy to make; it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages. Here are a few reasons why this dish deserves a spot in your cooking rotation:

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples.
Crispy and Flavorful: Achieves the ideal balance of crunch and spice.
Versatile: Serve as a main dish or snack.

Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or just need a quick fix, this recipe will deliver.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breast/thighs	500g
Cornstarch	1 cup
Salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	1 tsp
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Green onions (chopped)	2 stalks
Red chili (optional)	1
Vegetable oil	For frying

Garnish

Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges

Equipment Needed

Frying pan or wok
Mixing bowls
Tongs
Paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the coating to crisp up perfectly.

Next, toss the chicken in a bowl with salt, pepper, and cornstarch. The cornstarch is key here – it creates that signature light, crispy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a large pan or wok, heating it over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a small piece of chicken sizzles immediately upon contact.

Tip: Don’t rush this step – hot oil ensures the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per batch or until golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Add Flavor

In a clean pan, sauté minced garlic and chopped green onions until fragrant. Toss the fried chicken into the pan, coating it with the aromatic garlic-onion mixture. For extra heat, throw in sliced red chili.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the chicken and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately while it’s hot and crispy.

Pro Tips for Perfect Salt and Pepper Chicken

Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Fry the chicken once, let it cool, and fry again for maximum crunch.
Marinate for Flavor: Let the chicken sit in the seasoning for 15 minutes before coating.
Use Fresh Black Pepper: It enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pan: This causes the chicken to steam instead of fry, leading to a soggy texture.
Skipping Cornstarch: Cornstarch is crucial for that light, crispy coating.
Not Seasoning After Frying: Season the chicken immediately after frying to lock in flavor.

Variations and Additions

Salt and pepper chicken is versatile. Here are a few ways to customize the dish to your liking:

Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers or onions for added crunch and color.
Spicy Version: Increase the chili or add chili powder to the seasoning.
Sweet Twist: Drizzle honey over the chicken for a sweet and spicy combo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cut of chicken works best for salt and pepper chicken?

Chicken thighs are preferred because they stay juicy during frying, but chicken breast works just as well.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness.

Is salt and pepper chicken gluten-free?

Yes, as long as cornstarch is used instead of flour, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Salt and pepper chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. Its crispy coating and bold seasoning make it a favorite for all occasions. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying crunch and punch of flavor every time.

Try it tonight and experience why this classic dish is a must-have in every kitchen