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A bright, high-angle view of a bowl filled with golden brown, crispy Chinese salt and pepper chicken pieces.

Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken (Better Than Takeout)

This Salt and Pepper Crispy Chicken recipe delivers an unbelievably crunchy, savory, and restaurant-quality dish right from your kitchen. It's quick, easy, and packed with authentic flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal or appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg white lightly beaten
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp Shaoxing wine optional
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper
  • 3 cups neutral oil for frying
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 2 chilies thinly sliced (e.g., Serrano or Fresno)
  • 3 green onions chopped
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Wok or large pot
  • 1 Slotted Spoon
  • 1 Wire Rack

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine (if using), salt, and white pepper. Add the egg white and mix until the chicken is evenly coated.
  2. Create the Crispy Coating: Add the cornstarch to the bowl and toss thoroughly until every piece of chicken is generously coated. The mixture should feel thick and almost paste-like.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a wok or large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces one by one, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack.
  4. Sauté the Aromatics: Drain most of the oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the wok. Over medium-high heat, add the minced garlic and sliced chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Combine and Serve: Return the crispy chicken to the wok. Add the green onions, a generous pinch of sea salt, and a heavy shower of coarsely ground black pepper. Toss everything together for about 30 seconds. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra crispy chicken, perform a double fry. Fry for 3-4 minutes, rest the chicken, then increase oil heat to 375°F (190°C) and fry for another 1-2 minutes until deep golden brown.
Always drain fried chicken on a wire rack to maintain crispiness all around.