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There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when you whip up a dish bursting with flavor and crunch. That’s exactly what you get with my Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken. Imagine bite-sized pieces of chicken, lovingly coated and fried to a stunning golden brown, waiting to be tossed with a fragrant mix of garlic, fresh chilies, and a sprinkle of white pepper. The simple yet vibrant seasoning captures the essence of Asian cooking and elevates your weeknight dinner to something special.

What really sold me on this dish was how easily it can transform from a casual family meal to an impressive appetizer for entertaining. And the best part? This recipe can easily adapt to fit gluten-free diets without sacrificing any of that delightful crispiness! So whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to something delicious amid your busy week, this Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort right to your table. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why is Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken a Must-Try?

Versatile Dish: Perfect for all occasions, this recipe shines as a family dinner or a show-stopping appetizer.
Easy Preparation: Minimal cooking skills required, making it accessible to everyone in the kitchen.
Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of garlic, chilies, and white pepper gives it an aromatic kick that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Easily swap in gluten-free flour options, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s hard to resist those crispy bites that everyone—and I mean everyone—will be reaching for. Try it alongside some homemade dipping sauces for an enhanced experience!

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken Ingredients

• For the Chicken

Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Choose thighs for richer flavor or breasts for a leaner option depending on your preference.
Cornstarch – This is essential for creating that light, crunchy coating; a must for the ultimate crispy chicken.
All-Purpose Flour – Adds crunchiness and body when frying; can be substituted with gluten-free flour for dietary needs.

• For the Flavoring

Garlic (2–3 cloves, minced) – Essential for adding aromatic depth; this ingredient is a game-changer for flavor.
Fresh Red Chilies (2–3, sliced) – Infuse the dish with heat and vibrant color; feel free to adjust according to spice preference.
Ground White Pepper (1 tsp) – Adds a mild yet distinctive heat typical in Asian cuisine; complements the flavors beautifully.
Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor profile; don’t skip it!
Sugar (1/2 tsp) – Balances out the savory notes with a hint of sweetness; a touch is all you need!

• For Garnishing

Green Onions (for garnish) – Adds a fresh touch and a burst of color; chives can be a great alternative if you prefer.

• For Frying

Oil (for deep frying) – Use neutral oils like canola or peanut to achieve that perfect crispy texture; keep it at the right temperature for best results.

Transforming these ingredients into your new favorite dish, Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken, is what makes this recipe not just a meal, but an experience! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

How to Make Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Mix Coatings: In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch and all-purpose flour. This mixture creates that irresistible light, crispy coating. Toss your chicken pieces in, making sure they’re evenly coated.
Heat Oil: In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer can really help here! This temperature is key for achieving that golden crispiness you desire.
Fry Chicken: Carefully add chicken to the hot oil in small batches. Fry for about 4–5 minutes, or until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Sauté Aromatics: In a separate pan, heat a splash of oil and sauté minced garlic and sliced chilies over medium heat until fragrant. The aroma is heavenly!
Combine Ingredients: Add the fried chicken to the pan with garlic and chilies. Toss gently with salt, white pepper, and sugar until the chicken is evenly coated with those flavorful spices.
Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a vibrant touch and pop of freshness. Your dish is ready to shine!

Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the chicken soggy.
Serving Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed fresh; try to prepare only what you’ll eat to keep that delightful crunch intact!

Expert Tips for Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken

Uniform Size: Ensure chicken pieces are cut to equal sizes for even cooking; this helps achieve that perfect crunch throughout.
Coating Balance: Combine cornstarch and all-purpose flour thoroughly; adjusting the ratio enhances the crispiness of your Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken.
Maintain Temperature: Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) during frying to avoid greasy chicken; a thermometer can help ensure the perfect frying conditions.
Small Batches: Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding; this allows each piece to fry evenly and become extra crispy.
Season While Hot: Toss the fried chicken in the seasoning mix while it’s still hot; this ensures the flavors adhere well for a deliciously seasoned finish.

Make Ahead Options

Prepare your Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken ahead of time to save precious minutes during your busy week! You can coat the chicken pieces in the cornstarch and flour mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The fried chicken can be made a day prior and stored in the fridge, but it’s best to reheat it in a hot oven (around 400°F) to regain that delightful crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the minced garlic and chilies, toss in the pre-cooked chicken, season it, and garnish. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious crunch and flavor while saving time and effort!

What to Serve with Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?

Let’s create a delightful meal pairing that complements every crunchy bite of your crispy chicken.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice balances the bold flavors of the chicken and offers a lovely texture contrast.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and freshness, enhancing the meal’s nutritional value.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad’s cool crunch can balance the spiciness of the dish perfectly.
Soy Ginger Dipping Sauce: A tangy, savory dip that enhances the flavors of the chicken, making each bite even more irresistible.
Mango Sticky Rice: The sweet and creamy essence of this famous dessert provides a delicious conclusion to the meal.
Chilled Green Tea: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate and complements the dish’s Asian flair, making it a perfect pairing.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in a sweet vinaigrette adds a vibrant layer to your dining experience.

Each pairing not only brings its own unique texture and flavor but also elevates your Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken to a complete feast, ready to impress friends and family alike!

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken Variations

Indulge your culinary creativity by customizing this delightful dish to your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free blend of flours like almond or coconut for a safe, crispy option without the gluten.
Extra Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an added kick that spice lovers will relish.
Herb-Infused: Toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil after frying for an aromatic twist that brightens up the dish.
Crispy Garlic: Enhance the flavor by adding crispy fried garlic chips to the mix for a crunchy, savory punch.
Coconut Coating: For a tropical twist, substitute coconut flour for all-purpose flour in your coating for a subtly sweet flavor.
Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle a bit of honey or sriracha over the finished chicken for a savory-sweet balance that’s hard to resist!
Oven-Baked Crunch: For a healthier version, spray the coated chicken with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Soy Sauce Glaze: After tossing with seasonings, add a splash of soy sauce for a richer umami profile that enhances the dish.

Get inspired and make this recipe your own with these tempting variations!

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless chicken thighs for a juicier flavor, but chicken breasts are also great for a leaner option. Look for pieces that are tender and plump, avoiding any with dark spots or signs of freezer burn.

How should I store leftover Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave, as this helps retain that delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

What if my chicken isn’t crispy enough?
No worries! Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C) during frying to achieve that crispy exterior. If the chicken is soggy, try frying it in smaller batches next time to avoid overcrowding, which can trap steam and lead to a less crispy result.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, as well as using cornstarch. This way, everyone can enjoy the delicious crunch of Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken without any worry! Just make sure your flour blends are certified gluten-free.