Name: Salt and Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 60 g cornflour (cornstarch); 1 tbsp table salt; 1.25 tbsp ground black pepper; 1 tbsp Chinese five-spice; 6 pieces skinless chicken thigh fillets, quartered; 240 ml vegetable oil for frying (around 1 cup); 1 onion peeled and chopped into large chunks (about 1.5-2cm across); 1 red chilli chopped into small pieces (relatively mild fresno or serrano chillies); 1 green chilli chopped into small pieces (relatively mild fresno or serrano chillies); 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced; 3 pieces spring onions (scallions), roughly chopped

Introduction to Salt and Pepper Chicken

Why Homemade Salt and Pepper Chicken is a Game-Changer for Young Professionals

If you’ve ever craved that crispy, flavor-packed delight of takeout salt and pepper chicken, but have found yourself too busy to wait in line, then this recipe is your perfect solution. As a young professional, whipping up this quick and scrumptious dish at home means you can enjoy restaurant quality without sacrificing your precious time.

In just 25 minutes, you’ll create a delightful medley of tender chicken thighs seasoned with a bold blend of salt, pepper, and Chinese five-spice, tossed together with vibrant chilies and crunchy onions. Not only is this dish easy to make, but it also allows you to adjust the heat level to suit your preferences—perfect for those midweek meals when you want to impress without needing a restaurant budget.

Beyond taste, homemade salt and pepper chicken is a winning choice for your health journey too. You control the ingredients, meaning you can opt for fresher produce and adjust the salt content to fit your lifestyle. Plus, with great leftovers for lunch the next day, you save time and money. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get frying!

For detailed guidance on the recipe, check out Nicky Corbishley’s impressive Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe.

Ingredients for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Essential ingredients for the perfect crispy chicken

To create that crispy texture you crave in salt and pepper chicken, you'll need some key ingredients. Start with skinless chicken thigh fillets, as they remain juicy and tender during cooking. Pair this with cornflour (or cornstarch), which is essential for achieving that golden, crunchy exterior. Add a touch of vegetable oil for frying—about a cup will suffice to ensure the chicken is perfectly immersed.

Special spices and their roles in flavor

Now, let’s talk about the heart of flavor in salt and pepper chicken! The combination of table salt, ground black pepper, and Chinese five-spice is what makes this dish irresistible. The salt amplifies the taste, while black pepper adds a subtle kick. Chinese five-spice brings an aromatic layer of complexity, blending sweetness, spice, and a hint of warmth. Toss in some chillies for that extra zing and you've got a dish that’s as flavorful as it is crispy! For more on spices, check out this guide.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the cooking!

Step-by-step preparation of Salt and Pepper Chicken

Making salt and pepper chicken is easier than you might think! With a few simple steps, you’ll be able to whip up this crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive in!

Gather and prep your ingredients

First things first: getting everything ready. Here’s what you need:

60 g (½ cup) cornflour (cornstarch)
1 tablespoon table salt
1 ¼ tablespoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice
6 skinless chicken thigh fillets, quartered
Vegetable oil for frying (around 240ml/1 cup)
1 onion, peeled and chopped into large chunks
1 red chilli, chopped
1 green chilli, chopped
2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
3 spring onions (scallions), roughly chopped

Make sure to have all these ingredients at hand, as it helps everything go smoothly during cooking!

Create the seasoned coating for the chicken

Next, we need that delicious, crispy coating that makes this dish phenomenal. In a bowl, mix together the cornflour, salt, black pepper, and Chinese five-spice. This combination creates an aromatic blend that truly elevates the flavor of your salt and pepper chicken. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the quartered chicken thighs, and toss to coat evenly. You want that flavor to cling to every piece!

Heat the oil and fry the chicken

Now, let’s get frying! Take about 240ml (1 cup) of vegetable oil and pour it into a large frying pan. Heat it up on high until it shimmers—this usually takes just a few minutes. To test if it’s hot enough, dip the end of a wooden spoon into the oil; if bubbles form around it, you're good to go.

Add the seasoned chicken to the pan in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to transfer the chicken to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.

Cook the aromatics in a separate pan

While the chicken is frying, grab a separate frying pan. Heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat and add the chopped onion, red and green chillies, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions start to soften, releasing their sweetness.

Then, add your minced garlic and chopped spring onions. This should only take an additional minute; the goal is to enhance the flavors without burning.

Combine everything for the final dish

Once both the chicken and aromatics are ready, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the fried chicken to the pan with the onion and chillies, tossing them together for about a minute. The result? A vibrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Serve hot, and enjoy the delightful crunch and kick of your homemade salt and pepper chicken!

Now you’re ready to serve this delicious dish at your next gathering and wow your friends with your culinary skills!

Variations on Salt and Pepper Chicken

Spice it up with different chili options

For those who crave a little extra heat, consider swapping out the chillies in this salt and pepper chicken recipe for spicier variants. Try Thai bird’s eye chillies for a fiery kick or Jalapeños for a balanced burst. Feeling adventurous? Incorporate smoked paprika for depth or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle background heat. Adjust to your personal preference, and let your tastebuds lead the way!

Make it a vegetarian version with tofu

Craving the crunch and zest of salt and pepper chicken but want a plant-based twist? Easily substitute skinless chicken thigh fillets with marinated and pressed tofu. Toss the tofu in the same flavorful seasoning mix, ensuring it’s well-coated. Then, follow the cooking method as usual for crispy results. You won’t miss the meat with this hearty, vegetarian-friendly option!

Explore these delicious adaptations for a fresh take on the classic recipe!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Ensuring the crispiest chicken every time

To achieve that irresistible crunch in your salt and pepper chicken, make sure your oil is sufficiently hot before frying. If it’s not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and lose that crispiness you crave. Fry in smaller batches to maintain the oil’s temperature, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Consider using a thermometer for precision since maintaining frying temperature is crucial for a perfectly crispy texture.

Tips for reheating and serving leftovers

If you have any leftovers, rejoice—they can be just as delightful! To reheat, use a frying pan with a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. This helps restore the crispiness while warming the chicken through in about 5-6 minutes. Serve alongside fresh veggies or a light salad to keep meals balanced and satisfying. For more tips, check out this handy guide on reheating fried chicken.

Serving suggestions for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Perfect pairing with rice or noodles

To truly enjoy your salt and pepper chicken, serve it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or toss it with your favorite noodles. Whether it's jasmine rice or soba, these options provide a neutral base that perfectly balances the dish's bold flavors. You could even add a touch of soy sauce or sesame oil to enhance the overall taste experience.

Ideas for side dishes and garnishes

Pair your salt and pepper chicken with colorful side dishes like stir-fried vegetables, pickled cucumbers, or a light salad to provide freshness. Consider garnishing the dish with additional chopped spring onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra pop! This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile. Looking for inspiration? Check out this great guide on what to pair with chicken for more ideas!

Time breakdown for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Preparation time
Get everything ready in just 5 minutes! That’s all you need to chop your ingredients and mix the seasonings.

Cooking time
The exciting part comes next: 20 minutes of frying up that delicious chicken until it’s perfectly crispy and golden.

Total time
In a mere 25 minutes, you can whip up this flavor-packed salt and pepper chicken that’s sure to impress your friends or family. Enjoy the quick culinary adventure!

Feel free to check out more helpful cooking tips and ideas on well-respected sites like BBC Good Food or Serious Eats.

Nutritional Facts for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Calories per serving

In each serving of this salt and pepper chicken, you'll find approximately 487 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet hearty option for a starter or side dish.

Protein content

Packed with protein, each serving offers about 34 grams of protein, thanks to the chicken thighs. This can help you feel full longer and support muscle maintenance.

Sodium levels

Due to the seasoning used, the sodium content is relatively high at 1938 mg per serving. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider serving this dish alongside low-sodium sides or using reduced-sodium alternatives for the salt and seasonings.

For more in-depth nutrition insights, consider checking resources such as the USDA FoodData Central or looking into various dietary guidelines that emphasize balanced eating. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful dish!

FAQs about Salt and Pepper Chicken

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

If you're looking for alternatives to chicken in your salt and pepper chicken, consider using sliced beef or turkey bacon for a unique twist. These proteins will offer a different texture and flavor profile while still soaking up the aromatic spices. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed!

How do I ensure my chicken is cooked perfectly?

To get perfectly cooked salt and pepper chicken, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A quick test is to dip the end of a wooden spoon into the oil; if bubbles form, it's good to go. Fry each piece for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Using a meat thermometer can also help, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While salt and pepper chicken is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, you can prepare it in advance. Cook the dish, allow it to cool, then refrigerate for up to a day. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in a frying pan with a bit of oil to restore some of that initial crunch. For best results, don’t rush this step!

If you have more questions or need recipe tips, feel free to reach out or check out more culinary tips on websites like Serious Eats or BBC Good Food. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Salt and Pepper Chicken

In summary, salt and pepper chicken is a delightful dish bursting with flavor, perfect for a quick dinner or gathering with friends. With its crispy texture and spicy kick, it’s sure to impress! Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, and make this takeout favorite a regular in your kitchen.