Air Fryer Salt And Pepper Chicken: The Ultimate Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Air Fryer Salt And Pepper Chicken
Air fryer salt and pepper chicken is a delightful dish that combines the crispy textures of fried chicken with the bold flavors of salt and pepper. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also healthier than traditional frying methods. The air fryer helps to achieve that perfect crunch while maintaining the juiciness of the chicken, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.
A Personal Story Behind My Air Fryer Salt And Pepper Chicken Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and enjoying home-cooked meals. One of the dishes that always brought smiles was the classic salt and pepper chicken. As I ventured into the world of cooking, I experimented with various methods and ingredients, finally discovering the air fryer. This recipe is a tribute to those cherished family moments, bringing together the simplicity of cooking with the joys of sharing good food.
What Makes This Air Fryer Salt And Pepper Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its combination of easily accessible ingredients and the convenience of the air fryer. The use of cornflour gives the chicken a light and crispy coating while the blend of Chinese five spice adds an aromatic depth that elevates the dish. Plus, it’s adaptable! You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
The Full Air Fryer Salt And Pepper Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch in USA)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp Chinese five spice
- 500 g (1.1 lb) skinless chicken thigh fillets, quartered
- Spray oil (about 20 squirts altogether)
- 1 large onion, peeled and chopped into large chunks
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 red chili pepper (like serrano or Fresno), finely diced
- Green chili pepper (like serrano or Fresno), finely diced
- 3 spring onions (scallions), roughly chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the cornflour, salt, black pepper, and Chinese five spice. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for the chicken.
- Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated. Make sure every piece is covered to ensure maximum flavor.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in two batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Spray the chicken with oil and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes. Remember to shake the basket twice during cooking for even crispiness. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl.
- Place the chopped onion, garlic salt, and additional black pepper in the air fryer basket. Toss together, spray with oil, and air fry for 5 minutes at 200°C (400°F). This step will bring out the sweetness of the onions.
- Add the diced chillies, toss, and air fry for an additional 2 minutes. This will infuse the dish with a spicy kick!
- Finally, add the spring onions and the cooked chicken back to the basket. Toss together and air fry for another 1-2 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Air Fryer Salt And Pepper Chicken
This dish can be served with a variety of sides such as steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. For an exciting twist, consider serving it with a side of sweet chili sauce or a tangy dipping sauce. You can also modify the recipe by adding more vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli, for added nutrition and color. Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili according to your preference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Salt And Pepper Chicken
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs if you prefer leaner meat. Just be aware that breast meat can dry out more easily, so monitor the cooking time closely.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, ensure that the cornflour you use is certified gluten-free, and you can enjoy this dish without gluten.
What can I serve with salt and pepper chicken?
This chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad. You can also serve it as a filling for wraps or tacos for a fun twist.
Air Fryer Salt And Pepper Chicken
Equipment
- Air fryer For cooking the chicken to perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Chinese five spice
- 500 grams skinless chicken thigh fillets, quartered (1.1 lb)
- 1 large onion, peeled and chopped into large chunks
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 red chili pepper, finely diced red chili pepper
- 1 green chili pepper, finely diced green chili pepper
- 3 spring onions, roughly chopped spring onions
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the cornflour, salt, black pepper, and Chinese five spice.
- Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in two batches if your basket is small.
- Spray the chicken with oil and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes, shaking the basket twice during cooking. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl.
- Place the chopped onion, garlic salt, and black pepper in the air fryer basket. Toss together, spray with oil, and air fry for 5 minutes at 200°C (400°F).
- Add the diced chillies, toss, and air fry for an additional 2 minutes.
- Then, add the spring onions and the cooked chicken. Toss together and air fry for another 1-2 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.