Ingredients
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For the Chicken Marinade
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500 grams chicken (boneless or with bone, cut into bite-sized pieces)
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1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
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1 tsp soy sauce
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1 tsp vinegar
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1/2 tsp black pepper powder
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1 tsp cornflour
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For the Coating
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup cornflour
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1 tsp baking powder
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1 tsp black pepper powder
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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For the Stir Fry
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1 tbsp oil
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5 garlic cloves, minced
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3 green chilies, sliced
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1 small onion, chopped
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1 tsp white or black pepper
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Optional: Chopped spring onions for garnish
Directions
Salt and Pepper Chicken is a beloved and iconic dish that hails from Chinese cuisine, particularly rooted in Cantonese-style cooking. Its irresistible combination of crispy fried chicken, seasoned with aromatic and savory spices like garlic, black pepper, and green chilies, makes it one of the most popular appetizers or main dishes in Chinese and Asian fusion restaurants worldwide. With its perfectly golden-brown coating, tender inside, and punchy, well-balanced flavor, Salt and Pepper Chicken has become a go-to comfort food for families and food lovers alike.
This dish strikes the perfect balance between bold flavors and irresistible crunch. The chicken is first marinated in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and seasonings to infuse a deep, rich umami flavor. Once marinated, it is coated with a light and crispy batter made from all-purpose flour and cornflour, which creates that golden, crispy exterior when fried to perfection. The fried chicken pieces are then stir-fried with garlic, green chilies, and onions, further elevating the taste with aromatic stir-fried notes.
Salt and Pepper Chicken can be served in numerous ways — as an appetizer for parties, as a starter during family dinners, or as the main dish accompanied by rice or noodles. Its versatility lies in its flavor-packed simplicity, combining crispy fried textures with fragrant stir-fried aromatics. It’s easy to prepare, simple yet satisfying, and loved by both adults and children alike.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving a snack that hits all the right flavor notes, Salt and Pepper Chicken offers the perfect mix of heat, spice, and crunch. With every bite, you’ll experience the savory harmony of fried chicken seasoned with just the right amount of black pepper, garlic, and green chilies — a combination that creates both depth and character in every bite.
This dish showcases a wonderful marriage of texture, taste, and versatility while staying true to its traditional roots. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, Salt and Pepper Chicken is a must-try recipe that promises to impress with its flavors and ease of preparation. It’s a timeless recipe that bridges cultures and cravings, offering comfort and joy to anyone lucky enough to taste it. 🍗✨
Estimated Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings)
Calories | 350-400 kcal |
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Protein | 20-25 grams |
Carbohydrates | 30-35 grams |
Fat | 15-20 grams |
Saturated Fat | 3-4 grams |
Cholesterol | 50-60 mg |
Sodium | 400-500 mg |
Fiber | 1-2 grams |
Sugars | 0-2 grams |
Note: These values are approximate and depend on the amount of oil used for frying and portion size.
Steps
1
Done
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Marinate the Chicken1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, soy sauce, vinegar, black pepper powder, and cornflour. 2. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors. |
2
Done
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Prepare the Coating1. In a shallow dish, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornflour, baking powder, black pepper powder, and salt. 2. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even coating. |
3
Done
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Coat the Chicken1. Take each marinated chicken piece and coat it evenly with the dry flour mixture. Shake off excess flour. |
4
Done
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Fry the Chicken1. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). 2. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides (around 6-7 minutes). 3. Remove and drain excess oil on a paper towel. |
5
Done
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Stir Fry the Aromatics1. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil. 2. Add minced garlic and green chilies and sauté for 30 seconds. 3. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and fragrant. 4. Stir in fried chicken, add white or black pepper, and toss until well combined. |
6
Done
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Garnish & Serve1. Garnish with spring onions if desired. 2. Serve hot with dipping sauce or as-is! Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Salt and Pepper Chicken! 🧄🌶️🤤 |