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–+ servings
Salt and Pepper Chicken

Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken: Your Quick Flavor Fix at Home

This Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful takeout-inspired dish perfect for dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Coating
  • 1 cup Cornflour (cornstarch) Essential for crunch; do not substitute with flour for perfect crispiness.
  • 1 tsp Table Salt Use divided; some for coating and some for the stir-fry.
  • 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper Adjust quantity based on spice preference.
  • 1 tsp Chinese Five-Spice Adds a depth of flavor.
For the Chicken
  • 500 g Skinless Chicken Thigh Fillets Juicy and tender when cooked well.
For Cooking
  • 1 cup Vegetable Oil A neutral oil with a high smoke point.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Provides sweetness and crunch.
  • 2 pieces Chillies (red and green) Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Adjust according to your garlic preference.
  • 2 pieces Spring Onions (scallions) Adds freshness and serves as a garnish.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into quarters. Mix cornflour, salt, black pepper, and Chinese five-spice. Coat chicken pieces evenly and let sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, pour vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Fry Chicken: Add coated chicken pieces in batches and fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, add reserved oil, garlic, onions, and chillies. Stir-fry until fragrant and onions are translucent.
  5. Combine: Add fried chicken to the vegetables and toss together, adding spring onions and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot with steamed or fried rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, serve the chicken hot directly after cooking, as reheating may compromise crispiness.

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