Salt and Pepper Chicken

Everything you love with Salt and Pepper Chicken but with minimal oil- juicy, crispy chicken bursting with flavor.

If you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine, you’ve probably come across the delectable dish of salt and pepper chicken. This flavorful and aromatic treat is a beloved staple in Chinese restaurants and takeout menus.

The marinade for this dish is simple and doesn’t need a lot of time to let the flavors sink in. Pair with some rice and steamed vegetable, and this quickly comes together for a delicious and satisfying weeknight meal.

Let’s find out more about what salt and pepper chicken is, how to make it, its health considerations, and some perfect accompaniments for a bomb meal.

What Is Salt and Pepper Chicken?

This is a popular Chinese dish that features tender pieces of chicken seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, and other complementary spices. The dish is known for its delightful crispy texture and bold, savory flavor profile, making it an instant hit with food enthusiasts around the world.

Usually salt and pepper chicken is deep fried, but in our recipe we do a shallow pan fry. The chicken still gets super crispy and you don’t have to use a lot of oil.

How To Make Salt and Pepper Chicken:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Sliced green onions and chili peppers for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine the marinade and chicken in a bowl. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
2. Combine the spice mix and set aside.
3. Add the beaten egg into a bowl with the chicken. Mix and add the cornstarch. Stir to coat the chicken. The batter should be pretty dry and not runny.
4. Add enough oil to a large skillet to coat the bottom. Heat over medium high until hot. Add the chicken one piece at a time without overcrowding. Cook until chicken turns golden brown on bottom, about 2 – 3 minutes. Flip and cook for 2 – 3 more minutes. Remove onto a plate lined with a paper towel. Repeat until all chicken is cooked.
5. Sprinkle chicken with half the spice mix, turning over to ensure everything is seasoned.
6. Add more oil if the pan is dry. Add onions and peppers to heat, and saute until slightly soft, about 3 minutes. Add green onion. Add chicken and toss. Sprinkle more spice mix. Remove the chicken and vegetable mixture off the heat and into a serving bowl.

What Is Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken?

Chinese salt and pepper chicken is a flavorful and crispy bite-sized chicken dish seasoned with salt, pepper, and various spices, which are commonly found in Chinese cuisine. This dish embodies the essence of Chinese flavors, making it a favorite among both locals and global food enthusiasts.

Is it Healthy?

While this dish is undeniably delicious, it is not considered a health food due to its deep-frying cooking method. Consuming deep-fried foods regularly may contribute to unhealthy eating habits. However, enjoying this dish occasionally as part of a balanced diet should not be a concern.

Instead of deep-frying, this recipe uses a shallow fry method and cuts down significantly on the amount of oil used. For a healthier option, you can try oven-baking the chicken instead of deep-frying to reduce the oil content even more.

What Goes With Salt and Pepper Chicken?

To make a satisfying meal, salt and pepper chicken pairs well with various foods like steamed rice, fried rice or stir fried vegetables like bok choy or broccoli. A refreshing cucumber salad is also a great choice. Serve with a plate of hot and sour soup or egg drop soup in order to experience Chinese cuisine.

This beloved Chinese delicacy brings together a delightful blend of flavors and textures that keep food enthusiasts coming back for more.

With its crispy exterior and well-seasoned taste, it has won hearts globally. While it may not be the healthiest option due to its deep-frying method, enjoying this dish occasionally as part of a balanced meal is a delicious treat worth savoring.