salt and Chilli Chicken: easy recipe in 2025

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There’s something truly irresistible about Salt and Chilli Chicken. The crispy, tender chicken pieces coated in a bold and spicy sauce make it an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner or impress your friends with a show-stopping dish, Salt and Chilli Chicken is sure to hit the spot. This dish takes the classic fried chicken to a whole new level, with flavors that excite your taste buds and a perfect balance of heat and savoriness. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, step-by-step recipe, variations, and tips for making the perfect Salt and Chilli Chicken right at home.

What is Salt and Chilli Chicken?

Salt and Chilli Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese and Asian-inspired cuisine, known for its bold flavors and irresistible crunch. The star of this dish is crispy, golden-brown chicken, usually cut into bite-sized pieces, that’s stir-fried with fresh chilies, garlic, and onions. The combination of salt and chili gives it a deliciously savory and spicy kick that makes this dish stand out from the usual fried chicken options.

This dish has become a favorite in Chinese takeaways across the UK and parts of the USA, but its origins can be traced back to traditional Chinese cooking, particularly from Sichuan cuisine, where chili and spices play a major role. Over time, this dish has evolved, adapting to local tastes while retaining the essence of its bold flavor profile.

The History Behind Salt and Chilli Chicken

Salt and Chilli Chicken’s roots are firmly planted in Chinese cuisine, but it has become a beloved dish worldwide. The origins of this dish are deeply influenced by the bold and spicy Sichuan flavors known for their liberal use of chilies and peppercorns. While the classic version of the dish originated in China, it gained popularity in the West as Chinese restaurants began popping up in urban areas.

In the UK, Salt and Chilli Chicken became a staple of Chinese takeout menus in the 1980s and has remained a fan favorite ever since. Its spicy kick and crispy texture made it the perfect comfort food for many. The dish has also made its way into the mainstream food scene, appearing in fusion recipes and even in modern street food culture.

As Chinese-inspired dishes grew in popularity, Salt and Chilli Chicken emerged as a unique offering. What makes it particularly enjoyable is the balance of textures—the crispy chicken and the tender vegetables. Its combination of salt and chili creates a flavor profile that is at once simple and complex, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why Salt and Chilli Chicken is a Crowd-Pleaser

Salt and Chilli Chicken isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly versatile. This dish checks all the boxes for a great meal: it’s flavorful, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Here are some reasons why it’s a crowd-pleaser:

Crispy Texture: The crispy chicken pieces create a satisfying crunch with each bite, making it instantly addictive.
Bold Flavor: With the combination of fresh chilies, garlic, and soy sauce, the dish delivers a punch of heat and umami that everyone loves.
Customizable Spice: You control the level of spiciness. Whether you like it mild or extra hot, you can adjust the amount of chili to suit your preferences.
Quick and Easy: It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something flavorful but don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Perfect for Sharing: The dish is great for parties, gatherings, or family dinners. It can easily be shared as a starter or served as a main with rice or noodles.

Ingredients Needed to Make Salt and Chilli Chicken

One of the best parts of making Salt and Chilli Chicken is how simple it is to prepare. Most of the ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store or Asian market. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breasts (or thighs): For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken. This will ensure the chicken cooks quickly and remains juicy inside while crisping up on the outside.
Fresh red and green chili peppers: These add heat and a pop of color to the dish. Adjust the number of chilies depending on your spice tolerance.
Garlic and ginger: These aromatic ingredients infuse the dish with a warm, savory depth of flavor.
Onions: Yellow or white onions work best for this recipe. They add sweetness and balance out the heat from the chilies.
Cornflour (cornstarch): This is essential for coating the chicken, ensuring a crispy texture when fried.
Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami to the dish. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning the chicken before frying.
Vegetable oil: For frying the chicken. The oil should be hot to ensure the chicken becomes crisp.

Salt and Chilli Chicken Ingredients Table

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breasts	500g
Fresh red chili	2-3
Fresh green chili	2-3
Garlic cloves	4-5
Onion	1 medium
Cornflour	3 tbsp
Soy sauce	2 tbsp
Salt	1 tsp
Pepper	1 tsp
Vegetable oil (for frying)	As needed

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Salt and Chilli Chicken

Making Salt and Chilli Chicken at home is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a crispy and flavorful dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken with salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. The soy sauce will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken with Cornflour

Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to coat it in cornflour. This step is crucial for achieving the crispy texture you’re looking for. Place the cornflour in a shallow dish and coat the chicken pieces evenly. This will help the chicken fry up nice and crispy.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping in a small piece of chicken—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready), carefully add the chicken pieces to the pan in batches. Fry until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced garlic, ginger, onions, and fresh chilies. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the fried chicken back into the pan, tossing it with the stir-fried vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro or extra chili flakes for an added kick.

Variations of Salt and Chilli Chicken You Should Try

While the classic Salt and Chilli Chicken recipe is fantastic on its own, here are some variations you can try to switch things up:

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu, cauliflower, or even tempeh for a plant-based twist. You can follow the same method of coating and frying the tofu or cauliflower for a satisfying texture.
Sweet and Spicy Twist: Add a drizzle of honey or brown sugar to the sauce to create a sweet and spicy version of the dish.
Extra Spicy: For spice lovers, increase the amount of fresh chili or add chili paste to the dish. You could also use a hotter variety of chili, like bird’s eye chili, for an intense heat.

Serving Suggestions for Salt and Chilli Chicken

Salt and Chilli Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some serving ideas:

With Steamed Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to balance out the heat and create a complete meal.
Noodles: Pair it with stir-fried noodles for a hearty, satisfying dish.
Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the chicken with a fresh salad, adding cucumber, cilantro, and lime for a refreshing contrast.

Best Sides to Complement Salt and Chilli Chicken:

Fried rice with vegetables
Stir-fried bok choy or other greens
Sweet and sour dipping sauce

Nutritional Value of Salt and Chilli Chicken

Salt and Chilli Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish, but if you’re watching your calories, it’s good to know what you’re consuming. Typically, a serving of Salt and Chilli Chicken contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size and how much oil is used for frying.

For a lighter option, you can bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep-frying it. You can also reduce the amount of soy sauce or use low-sodium alternatives to make the dish healthier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Salt and Chilli Chicken

While Salt and Chilli Chicken is relatively simple to make, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

Not frying the chicken long enough: If the chicken isn’t fried for long enough, it won’t be crispy. Make sure the oil is hot and give the chicken a proper fry to achieve the perfect texture.
Using too much oil: Too much oil can make the chicken greasy. Use just enough to fry the chicken in batches, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
Overcooking the vegetables: Stir-fry the vegetables until they’re tender but still crisp. Overcooking can make them soggy and lose their vibrant color.

FAQ Section: Answering Your Burning Questions About Salt and Chilli Chicken

Can I make Salt and Chilli Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and stir-fried vegetables separately. When ready to serve, simply combine them in a pan for a quick reheat.
Is Salt and Chilli Chicken very spicy?
The spice level is adjustable depending on how much chili you use. For a milder version, use fewer chilies, or remove the seeds from the peppers.
Can I use other meats for this dish?
Absolutely! While chicken is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with pork, beef, or shrimp for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion: Bring the Heat to Your Table with Salt and Chilli Chicken

Salt and Chilli Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines crispy chicken with bold, spicy flavors. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a party appetizer, or even a main course when paired with rice or noodles. With its easy-to-follow recipe and endless customization options, you can make this dish to suit any palate. So, why not bring a little heat to your kitchen today? Try Salt and Chilli Chicken and experience a flavorful twist on a classic favorite!

Call to Action: Ready to make your own Salt and Chilli Chicken? Grab your ingredients and start cooking! If you love the dish