What makes salt and pepper chicken crispy?

The coating of cornstarch and proper frying temperature ensures a crunchy exterior.

Can I make it without deep frying?

Yes, an air fryer works well for a healthier version.

Is salt and pepper chicken spicy?

Mildly adjust chili quantity to taste.

Can I use chicken wings instead of thighs?

Yes, wings work perfectly for this recipe.

Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe – Easy, Crispy, Flavorful 2026

Name: Salt and Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or wings, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon rice wine or dry sherry (optional); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon white pepper; ½ cup cornstarch or potato starch; Oil for deep frying or air frying; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon white pepper; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1–2 fresh red chilies, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional); 1–2 green onions, chopped

Description

A popular Chinese-style fried chicken dish featuring crispy, golden chicken pieces tossed with a fragrant mix of salt, pepper, garlic, and chili. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course, this recipe can be made using deep frying or an air fryer for a healthier version.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for 4 servings):

For the Chicken:

1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken thighs or wings, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon rice wine or dry sherry (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon white pepper
½ cup cornstarch or potato starch
Oil for deep frying or air frying

For the Seasoning:

1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon white pepper
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1–2 fresh red chilies, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances flavor)
1–2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a bowl, mix chicken with soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Marinate for 20–30 minutes.

Step 2: Coat Chicken
Toss marinated chicken in cornstarch or potato starch until evenly coated. Shake off excess.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
For deep frying: Heat oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C). Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, 4–6 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
For air frying: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray chicken with oil and cook 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 4: Prepare Seasoning
In a small pan, briefly sauté garlic and chilies in a teaspoon of oil until fragrant.

Step 5: Toss Chicken
Immediately toss hot chicken with sautéed garlic, chilies, salt, white pepper, and sugar. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Notes

Double-fry chicken for extra crunch.
Adjust chili amount for preferred spice level.
Serve immediately for best texture; leftover chicken can become soggy.
Can be made with wings, drumettes, or boneless chicken pieces.

Prep Time: 20–30 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes (air fryer) / 20–25 minutes (deep fry)
Category: Appetizer / Main Course
Method: Fried / Air Fried
Cuisine: Chinese