When the craving for something satisfying hits, there’s nothing quite like homemade Salt and Pepper Chicken. Imagine the aroma of perfectly marinated, crispy chicken dancing around your kitchen as it fries to golden perfection. This beloved Chinese takeout classic has found its way into countless homes, and for good reason—it’s a dish that combines simplicity with bursts of flavor, creating a delightful weeknight meal for the whole family.
Recapturing that authentic takeout experience can sometimes feel daunting, but this recipe is designed to be as approachable as it is delicious. With just a handful of key ingredients, you can transform ordinary chicken into an irresistible dish that’s not just easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping for a cozy night in, this Salt and Pepper Chicken is here to add excitement back to your dinner table. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why is Salt and Pepper Chicken a must-try?
Flavorful: This recipe elevates the basic chicken breast, transforming it into a crispy delicacy bursting with savory goodness.
Quick Prep: With a simple marinade and frying process, you’ll have dinner ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish, turning any meal into a celebration.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch things up with different proteins or add heat with chili flakes for a unique twist.
Satisfying Texture: The light, crispy coating juxtaposed with tender chicken creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
Plus, serve it with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies for a complete family-friendly feast!
Salt and Pepper Chicken Ingredients
• Gather these to create your flavorful dish!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breast – A lean protein that’s ideal for frying; cut into bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Egg – Acts as a binder for the crispy coating; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan-friendly option.
- Cornstarch – Ensures a light and crispy coating; can be replaced with flour if cornstarch is unavailable.
For the Marinade
- Salt – Enhances flavor and can be adjusted for dietary needs.
- Pepper – Adds spice; switch to white pepper for a milder flavor profile.
- Garlic – Infuses the marinade with aromatic goodness; garlic powder can be used as an alternative.
- Brown Sugar – Balances savory and salty flavors beautifully; honey or coconut sugar works well as a substitute.
- Rice Wine – Deepens the marinade’s flavor; use white vinegar for a non-alcoholic variant.
- Water – Thins the marinade; no substitutions needed.
- Soy Sauce – Delivers umami richness; tamari can be used for a gluten-free dish.
- Baking Soda – Tenderizes the chicken; can be omitted if not available.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying; canola or peanut oil will provide a high smoke point for frying.
For Garnish
- Green Onions – Adds freshness and a pop of color; chives can be used if green onions are not on hand.
Now that you’re set with your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Your homemade Salt and Pepper Chicken is just a few steps away from gracing your dinner table.
How to Make Salt and Pepper Chicken
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Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the marinade ingredients—salt, pepper, garlic, brown sugar, rice wine, water, soy sauce, and baking soda. Add chicken pieces and let marinade for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Prepare Coating: In another bowl, beat the egg. Remove the marinated chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Coat each piece in the egg, then toss with cornstarch until thoroughly covered for that crispy crust.
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Fry Chicken: Heat enough vegetable oil in a wok to fully submerge the chicken. Fry in batches for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remember to drain on paper towels after frying.
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Season Chicken: Once all batches are fried, return the cooked chicken to the wok. Heat briefly, then sprinkle with salt and pepper, tossing to coat evenly. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Optional: Add chili flakes for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Salt and Pepper Chicken?
Planning a delightful meal to complement your crispy creation?
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The soft, fragrant rice acts as a perfect canvas for the bold flavors of the chicken, soaking up every delectable bite.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots adds vibrant color and crunch, balancing the dish’s richness with freshness.
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Chili Garlic Sauce: A tangy, spicy dip brings an extra kick to your meal, enhancing the savory notes of your chicken while keeping taste buds tantalized.
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Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad with a hint of sesame oil and vinegar cuts through the richness of the chicken, creating a refreshing contrast on your plate.
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Egg Fried Rice: Fried rice mixed with eggs and green onions mirrors the flavors of the chicken, offering a hearty accompaniment that ties everything together.
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Sweet and Sour Sauce: This classic pairing elevates the taste experience, balancing the savory notes with a sweet tang that’s simply irresistible.
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Chardonnay or Riesling: A chilled glass of Chardonnay adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully, while a sweet Riesling complements the spices, creating a harmonious sip to enjoy with your meal.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this traditional Thai treat offers creamy sweetness and a satisfying finish, creating a perfect end to your flavorful journey.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced chili peppers to the frying oil for an extra layer of heat and flavor.
The warmth will wrap around each piece of chicken, satisfying those who crave a little spice. -
Tofu Twist: Substitute chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian version that’s just as crispy and delicious.
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating for the best texture. -
Shrimp Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood-inspired take on this classic dish.
Just be sure to cook the shrimp until they’re pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes! -
Veggie Medley: Toss in some sliced bell peppers and snap peas during the final cooking stage for a vibrant contrast.
This adds both color and crunch, making the dish even more appealing and nutritious. -
Crispy Cauliflower: For a low-carb alternative, substitute chicken with cauliflower florets, expertly coated and fried.
The crispy bites will be a hit, providing a hearty texture that everyone will love. -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil as a garnish for an aromatic finish.
This twist will elevate the flavor profile and add freshness to each bite. -
Coconut Flour: Swap out cornstarch with coconut flour for a gluten-free option that adds a hint of sweetness.
It’ll give your chicken a different yet delightful texture that complements the savory notes perfectly. -
Citrus Zing: A splash of lime or lemon juice right before serving will brighten the flavors beautifully.
This little touch can lift the dish, adding a refreshing twist everyone will appreciate!
How to Store and Freeze Salt and Pepper Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve flavor while maintaining the chicken’s tenderness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Lay it flat to save space.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in an air fryer or a hot skillet for about 5 minutes. Avoid using a microwave, as it may make the chicken soggy.
Note: Always let the chicken cool completely before storing it to prevent condensation and maintain the best quality.
Expert Tips for Perfect Salt and Pepper Chicken
- Hot Oil Matters: Ensure the oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying to achieve that coveted crispiness. A thermometer helps!
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature; too much at once leads to soggy pieces.
- Mix it Up: Feel free to enhance the seasoning with chili flakes or your favorite spices in the salt and pepper mix for added flavor.
- Thoroughly Drain: After frying, let the chicken drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping it light and crispy.
- Marinate Longer: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken for an hour or even overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Salt and Pepper Chicken in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, allowing those delicious flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply combine the marinade ingredients, add the chicken, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the coating, you can also beat the egg and toss the cornstarch together in a separate bowl, leaving them ready for frying when you’re set to cook. To maintain that heavenly crispiness, fry the chicken just before serving; if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and refreshed in an air fryer to ensure they stay just as delicious as the first bite!
Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for Salt and Pepper Chicken?
I recommend using chicken breast for this recipe, as it’s lean and cooks evenly. Cut into bite-sized pieces allows for crispiness all around. You can also use thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.
How should I store leftover Salt and Pepper Chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, it retains its flavor and tenderness. To reheat, an air fryer or a hot skillet works best to keep that delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze Salt and Pepper Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. It’s a great way to enjoy this dish later. Just make sure the chicken is completely cool before packing it away to prevent freezer burn.
What can I do if my breading isn’t crispy?
If your chicken isn’t coming out crispy, it could be due to the oil temperature not being hot enough. Aim for 350°F (175°C) before frying. Also, ensure you coat the chicken thoroughly in cornstarch after dipping in egg, and don’t overcrowd the pan! Frying in small batches ensures a crunchy coating.
Can people with allergies enjoy this dish?
While this dish is packed with flavor, it does contain common allergens like soy sauce. You can opt for gluten-free tamari instead. If you have allergies to eggs, a flax egg works as a great substitute in the batter. Always double-check your individual ingredients to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for an hour or even overnight can make a noticeable difference in flavor depth. Just remember to keep it in the fridge while marinating!
Feel free to dive into this Salt and Pepper Chicken recipe with confidence!
Savory Salt and Pepper Chicken That's Better Than Takeout
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the marinade ingredients—salt, pepper, garlic, brown sugar, rice wine, water, soy sauce, and baking soda. Add chicken pieces and let marinate for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat the egg. Remove the marinated chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Coat each piece in the egg, then toss with cornstarch until thoroughly covered.
- Heat enough vegetable oil in a wok to fully submerge the chicken. Fry in batches for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remember to drain on paper towels after frying.
- Once all batches are fried, return the cooked chicken to the wok. Heat briefly, then sprinkle with salt and pepper, tossing to coat evenly. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.