Salt and Pepper Chicken

When I think of comforting flavors, Salt and Pepper Chicken comes to mind every time. It’s a dish that holds a special place in my heart, evoking memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air and the aroma of sizzling chicken beckoned everyone to the table. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a go-to for any busy weeknight or a delightful meal to impress guests. You see, the beauty of Salt and Pepper Chicken lies in its balance of spices and the crispy texture of the chicken that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. The first time I prepared it, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together, allowing me to enjoy more time with my loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Each bite is a delight, with just the right amount of salt and pepper enhancing the tender chicken, making it a truly satisfying dish.

Ingredient List for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Every ingredient in Salt and Pepper Chicken plays an essential role in creating its signature flavor and texture. The combination of chicken, spices, and aromatics work together to provide a satisfying experience that is pleasantly crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. I love how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with just a bit of love and care.

• Cornstarch: ½ cup – This is crucial for achieving that crispy texture when frying the chicken. It forms a beautiful crust that locks in moisture.
• Chinese 5 Spice: 2 tsp – A fragrant blend that adds depth to the flavor profile, making your dish stand out.
• Salt: 1 tsp – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.
• Ground Black Pepper: 1 tsp – Provides that classic kick and enhances the overall taste.
• Sesame Oil: 2 tbsp – This oil adds a rich, nutty flavor and is perfect for frying, enhancing the dish’s authenticity.
• Chicken: 1 lb – Use breast or thighs, cubed for easy cooking and perfect for soaking up flavors.
• Green Onions: 4 – Diced and divided, they add a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor that complements the dish.
• Red Chili Pepper: 1 small – Diced, it brings a touch of heat and vibrant color to the dish.
• Green Chili Peppers: 2 small – Diced, these add extra flavor and spice to keep things exciting.

Preparation Steps for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Making Salt and Pepper Chicken is straightforward and enjoyable. Each step is a chance to infuse the dish with your personal touch. Follow me as we create this delicious meal that will make your taste buds dance!

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, Chinese 5 spice, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
2. Take your cubed chicken and sprinkle the seasoning mixture over it. Using your hands, coat the chicken thoroughly to ensure each piece is well-seasoned.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when you see a shimmer on the surface.
4. Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for a couple of minutes to achieve that golden brown color.
5. As the chicken cooks, stir occasionally to ensure all sides get a nice crispy finish. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
6. Once the chicken is cooked through and deliciously golden, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to absorb any excess grease.
7. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of sesame oil. When it’s hot, toss in the diced green onions, red chili pepper, and green chili peppers.
8. Cook the aromatics for about 2 minutes, until they are fragrant and tender but not overly soft.
9. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the vegetables and allowing them to mingle for about 2 more minutes.
10. Serve your Salt and Pepper Chicken immediately, ideally over a bed of rice, ramen, or your favorite seasoned noodles. Enjoy the warm, crispy goodness!

Substitutions and Tips

There are always ways to enhance your cooking experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind while preparing Salt and Pepper Chicken.

• Storage: Leftover Salt and Pepper Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to two months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Consider serving it with a side of stir-fried greens to add a healthy aspect to your meal.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili peppers used. Conversely, add more if you enjoy a spicy kick!
• Using Different Proteins: While chicken is fantastic, feel free to try this recipe with other proteins like shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• Experiment with Marinades: Try marinating the chicken in soy sauce or ginger for added flavor before you begin cooking.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish your dish with fresh cilantro or basil to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Salt and Pepper Chicken, the options are plentiful. Here are a few ideas:

• Over Rice: Serve it generously over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a satisfying meal.
• With Noodles: Try it with ramen or soba noodles for a delicious twist. The noodles soak up the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Salad: Pair it with a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple cucumber and tomato salad works wonders.
• Meal Prep Option: Prepare a larger batch for meal prep. It stores well and can be used for lunches throughout the week.
• Flavorful Sides: Consider serving this dish with stir-fried vegetables or a side of dumplings to round out your meal.
• Occasional Delight: This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.
• Garnish Well: Don’t be shy with garnishing! A sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh herbs can elevate the dish to restaurant quality.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Salt and Pepper Chicken lies in its simplicity and incredible flavor. This dish is perfect for both casual meals and special occasions, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. I encourage you to try it and discover just how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. You won’t regret indulging in this delightful dish that is sure to become a family favorite.

Salt and Pepper Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Salt and Pepper Chicken offers a crispy, flavorful experience that’s perfect for any night. With its savory flavors and quick preparation, it's an easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a deliciously memorable meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 14 minutes mins

Total Time 24 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup Cornstarch
• 2 tsp Chinese 5 Spice
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Sesame Oil
• 1 lb Chicken chicken breast, or boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed
• 4 Green Onions diced and divided
• 1 small Red Chili Pepper seeds removed and diced
• 2 small Green Chili Peppers seeds removed and diced

Equipment

• Cast Iron Skillet

Method

 

1. Mix together cornstarch, Chinese 5 spice, salt, and ground black pepper.
2. Sprinkle seasonings and spices on top of cubed chicken and mix well to coat.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring frequently, until all sides are golden brown.
5. Remove cooked chicken from the pan and set aside. If greasy, lay on a paper towel to soak excess grease.
6. Add the remaining one tablespoon of sesame oil and stir in green onions, red chili pepper, and green chili peppers.
7. Cook for 2 minutes or just until they are fragrant and tender.
8. Add salt and pepper chicken and cook for 2 minutes more. Serve this dish immediately while hot over rice, ramen, or other seasoned noodles.

Notes

• Tip 1: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces. This will help the chicken cook evenly.
• Tip 2: Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you add too much chicken to the pan at once, it will steam instead of fry.
• Tip 3: Don’t overcook the chicken. The chicken should be cooked through but still tender.
• Tip 4: Serve the chicken immediately. Salt and Pepper Chicken is best served hot and fresh.
• Tip 5: If you don’t have Chinese 5 spice, you can use a combination of ground ginger, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and ground star anise.
• Tip 6: Serve the chicken over rice or noodles.

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Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.