Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe

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Chinese salt and pepper chicken recipe that is not only easy to make, but it’s also quick and cooks in less than 30 minutes. This Chinese takeaway recipe of fried seasoned chicken breast pieces stir-fried in chillies, pepper and onions is flavorful, protein-rich and delicious. Let me show you how to make salt and pepper chicken with this step by step guide plus video.

Salt and pepper chicken is another of our favourite takeaway recipe. Just like my Chinese pepper steak recipe, it is juicy, packed full of flavour, made with simple ingredients, quick and easy to make.

This easy salt and pepper chicken is a popular takeaway recipe we love eating and like chicken and broccoli, we like serving it on fried rice, chow mein, salt and pepper chips, noodles or simple long grain white rice.

A fakeaway recipe that is perfect for any weeknight dinner or weekend. You not only save yourself some money cooking this at home, but you cook something you and your family will enjoy.

Salt and Pepper Chicken Recipe

This homemade salt and pepper chicken recipe is restaurant quality that is made in the comfort of your home. Save money on Friday takeaway dinner by making this at home for you and your family. This recipe is so good because

• It’s made fresh, cheaper and tastier than takeout. A tasty meal for you and your family.

• You know exactly what ingredients are in your food. No hidden unnecessary ingredients.

• You can adjust the amount of pepper, salt, and oil to get the ultimate chicken dinner.

• It is quick and simple. No need to marinate the chicken beforehand but if you have the time, you can do so.

• You can customise to suit your diet. Be it low carb, low fat, weight watchers, keto or slimming world.

• Healthier than takeout and you get a tasty meal in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients for Salt and Pepper Chicken

Chicken – I used boneless skinless chicken breasts but you also can use boneless skinless chicken thighs. I have also included notes and directions below if you want to use any other parts.

Cornflour

Chinese 5 spice

Black pepper

Chillies – I used green chilli. You can use red or both red and green.

Bell pepper – I used red bell pepper. I prefer it to the green.

Onion – I used brown onion but you can use white or red onion.

Garlic

Spring onion– This is also as known as green onions or scallions.

Oil – I used vegetable oil but you can use sunflower oil.

Salt

How to make Salt and Pepper Chicken

This dish is ready in 30 minutes or less. Let me show you the easy, quick steps on how to make it.

Cut chicken into 1-2″ bite-size then add salt, Chinese 5 spice, black pepper. and cornflour. Mix to combine and set aside.

If you have the time, marinate for 30-60 minutes.

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Cut the onions, bell peppers, spring onions and chillies. Set aside.

Heat oil in a pan then when heated, add the marinated chicken. Fry till brown while turning the sides to make sure all parts are fried.

When the chicken is fried and browned, remove from oil on to kitchen towel/ paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Place a wok on heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Add in the onion, garlic, bell pepper, spring onions and 5 spice. Saute for 2 minutes before adding in the fried chicken.

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Stir fry for a minute coating the chicken with the peppers and onion then take off the heat.

Serve and enjoy.

VARIATION

Salt and pepper wings– If using wings, follow the same directions above however, it will take longer to fry. Check tips below on how to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Salt and pepper drumsticks – Drumsticks will also take longer to fry. You can deep fry or bake in the oven.

What to serve with

Like I mentioned earlier, we like serving Chinese salt and pepper chicken with lo mein or rice. Other suggestions of what to eat with are

Pasta

Chips

Noodles

Instant pot basmati rice

You can also use in sandwiches or wraps.

How to store

If you have leftover or making it ahead of time, you can store

In the fridge – Leave to cool completely, pour in an airtight container, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

In the freezer – Leave to cool completely, put in an airtight container or freezer bags, label with dates, and store for up to 3 months.

You can reheat in the oven or microwave from cold or frozen.

Tips

• Use good quality and fresh ingredients.

• If you have the time, marinate the chicken 30-60 minutes prior to cooking.

• Cut chicken into bite-size and uniform size so it cooks evenly.

• You can use a deep fryer to fry the chicken or deep fry in a pan.

• To make it healthier, you can bake the chicken in the oven instead of frying.

• If not sure if the chicken is cooked through, take one of the pieces and cut into two to see the inside or use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. If it’s at least 165F/75C then it is safe to eat.

• Adjust black pepper and chilli to suit how spicy you want it. If you want it hotter, add more chillies.

• It’s best served hot

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken?

As it will be fried, if using frozen chicken, you should completely thaw it first before seasoning and frying.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can. If the chicken pieces can’t be fried at once in a pan, fry them in batches or use a deep fryer.

More simple recipes on the blog

How to cook chicken breast on stove

Instant pot omelette

Sauteed vegetables

Hope you love this dish as much as we do. If you find this post helpful, rate it 5 stars and leave me a comment below. I love reading from you.

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