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–+ servings
Salt and Pepper Chicken

Savory Salt and Pepper Chicken: Crisp, Juicy Perfection at Home

Enjoy homemade Salt and Pepper Chicken that brings the flavors of takeout to your dining table—crispy, juicy, and irresistibly seasoned.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
  • 1 piece Egg Acts as a binding agent; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
  • 3/4 cup Cornstarch Creates a crispy outer layer; ideal for gluten-free cooking.
  • Vegetable Oil Used for frying; choose oils with high smoke points.
For the Marinade
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust based on dietary needs.
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper Adds spice and depth; substitute with cayenne for extra heat.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt (for marinade) Additional seasoning for deeper flavor.
  • 2 tsp Brown Sugar Balances flavors with sweetness.
  • 2 Tbsp Water Combines marinade ingredients seamlessly.
  • 1 Tbsp Rice Wine Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Baking Soda Tenderizes the meat and contributes to crispiness.
  • 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce Adds umami depth.
For Garnish
  • 2 Tbsp Green Onions Provides freshness and pops of color.

Equipment

  • Wok or deep frying pan
  • Medium bowl
  • Separate bowl for egg
  • slotted spoon
  • Plate lined with paper towels

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine marinade ingredients and coat chicken. Marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. Beat the egg in a separate bowl. Dip marinated chicken in egg, then coat in cornstarch.
  3. Heat enough vegetable oil in a wok to reach about 1 inch deep. Test with a piece of chicken.
  4. Fry chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes each side until golden brown.
  5. Toss fried chicken with salt and pepper in the wok, garnish with green onions, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Ensure oil is hot before frying and do not overcrowd the pan for optimal crispiness. Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge or frozen for 2 months. Reheat in an air fryer for best results.

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