Salt And Pepper Chicken: The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Recipe

Name: Salt And Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast (Cut into 1.5-inch pieces); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large red chili, chopped; 1 teaspoon ginger, thinly sliced; 1 large green onion, finely chopped; 0.5 teaspoon white granulated sugar; 0.75 tablespoon Shaoxing Cooking Wine or dry sherry, dry white wine, cooking sake, or chicken broth; 0.33 cup vegetable oil or any neutral oil; 0.25 cup cornstarch or potato starch or arrowroot starch; 1 tablespoon Shaoxing Cooking Wine or dry sherry, dry white wine, cooking sake, or chicken broth (For seasoning); 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.75 teaspoon black pepper or white pepper

Introduction to Salt And Pepper Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a flavorful punch, look no further than salt and pepper chicken! This crispy stir-fry dish is not only easy to make, but it also provides a delightful combination of savory, spicy, and sweet flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

A Personal Story Behind My Salt And Pepper Chicken Journey

I first discovered salt and pepper chicken during a family gathering at a friend’s house. The aroma wafting from the kitchen was irresistible, and I couldn’t wait to taste it! After one bite, I was hooked. The crispy chicken coated in spices combined with fresh garlic and ginger was unlike anything I had experienced. Since then, I have made it my mission to perfect this recipe and share it with my family and friends.

What Makes This Salt And Pepper Chicken Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the ability to create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The key lies in the marinating process and the perfect balance of spices. By using Shaoxing cooking wine, you enhance the flavor of the chicken while the cornstarch gives it that extra crispy texture. Plus, the quick sauté of garlic, ginger, and chili adds an aromatic touch that elevates the dish even further.

The Full Salt And Pepper Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 large red chili, chopped
1 teaspoon ginger, thinly sliced
1 green onion, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon white granulated sugar
3/4 tablespoon Shaoxing Cooking Wine or dry sherry, dry white wine, cooking sake, or chicken broth
1/3 cup vegetable oil or any neutral oil
1/4 cup cornstarch or potato starch or arrowroot starch
Chicken Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing Cooking Wine or dry sherry, dry white wine, cooking sake, or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper or white pepper
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.

Instructions

Dice the chicken into 1.5-inch wide pieces. Place the chicken in a large bowl and mix in the seasoning ingredients: Shaoxing wine, salt, and black or white pepper. Marinate the chicken for 10 minutes if time allows. (Tip: Marinating enhances the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.)
Add cornstarch to the seasoned chicken and toss until each piece is evenly coated in starch. (Tip: The cornstarch coating helps achieve that crispy texture when frying.)
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken for 7-8 minutes until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through. (Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough; otherwise, the chicken may absorb too much oil and become greasy.)

Remove the fried chicken from the pan and place it on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels. (Tip: This helps keep the chicken crispy by allowing excess oil to drain.)
Keep 2 teaspoons of oil in the pan and discard the excess. Reduce the heat to low, then sauté ginger, garlic, red chili, green onion, and sugar for 30 seconds. (Tip: Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning.)
Add the fried chicken back into the pan and deglaze with Shaoxing wine. Toss everything together and remove from heat. Serve immediately. Adjust salt and pepper to taste if desired.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Salt And Pepper Chicken

This salt and pepper chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a bed of stir-fried vegetables. For a refreshing touch, consider serving it with a side of cucumber salad or pickled vegetables. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the stir-fry for added color and nutrition. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili according to your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salt And Pepper Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well in this recipe. Just be mindful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.

Can I make this dish in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil, place the seasoned chicken in a single layer, and air fry at 400°F for 9-12 minutes until golden and cooked through.

What can I substitute for Shaoxing cooking wine?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with chicken broth or a non-alcoholic cooking wine.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan to maintain crispiness.