Crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Experience the delightful crunch and flavor of Salt and Pepper Chicken, a Taiwanese favorite that’s perfect for appetizers or snacks.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Marinating Time 30

Total Time 1 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: Taiwanese

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound Boneless Chicken Thigh Can substitute with chicken breast or tofu.
1/2 cup Cornstarch For a crispy texture; use gluten-free flour for a substitute.
Vegetable Oil Frying Oil High smoke point oils like canola are recommended.

For the Marinade

2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Vinegar is a suitable substitute.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for stronger flavor.
1 teaspoon Ginger Use fresh ginger for better flavor.
1 tablespoon Brown Sugar White sugar can work if brown is unavailable.
1 teaspoon Salt Sea or kosher salt are good alternatives.
1 teaspoon Chicken Powder Optional for a healthier version.
1/2 teaspoon White Pepper Black pepper can be used as a substitute.
1 teaspoon Paprika Powder Smoked paprika can enhance flavor.

For Finished Dish

2 cloves Garlic (minced) Shallots can be a sweeter substitute.
1 cup Curly Red Pepper Any bell pepper can be milder.
1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust based on spice tolerance.
3 leaves Lime Leaves Dried lime leaves can be used if fresh is unavailable.
To taste Pepper Adjust seasoning as needed.
1 teaspoon White Sugar Can be omitted for less sweetness.

Equipment

large mixing bowl
skillet or wok
measuring cups and spoons

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place in a mixing bowl.
Marinate the Chicken: Whisk marinade ingredients together and coat the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Coat the Chicken: Evenly coat marinated chicken pieces with cornstarch for crispiness.
Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok until it shimmers.
Fry the Chicken: Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics: Sauté minced garlic and lime leaves in a pan until fragrant.
Combine and Season: Toss in fried chicken, red pepper, cayenne, and seasonings. Mix well.
Plate and Serve: Serve crispy Salt and Pepper Chicken and enjoy with lime wedges or dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Fry chicken in smaller batches for best results and maintain oil temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

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