Salt and pepper chicken is a Chinese dish, famous for spicy flavour and satisfying crunch. Traditionally made with boneless chicken pieces seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, and other spices, giving the dish a savoury and aromatic taste. While chicken breasts are commonly used, you can opt for wings if you prefer a different texture. The real beauty of this air fryer salt and pepper chicken lies in its versatility and the fact that you can prepare it in a way that suits you.
In the past, achieving crispy chicken required deep-frying, which can be messy and high in calories. However, with the air-fryer, you can now achieve the same crispy texture with far less oil. This method not only makes the dish much healthier but also reduces the clean-up process. Making it a perfect choice for busy individuals looking for a quick and healthy meal. The air fryer helps create a crisp exterior while keeping the chicken tender on the inside, making it a winning option for any meal.
This air-fryer salt and pepper chicken is easy to prepare in advance. Making it convenient for meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s also a great fake-away, so you can enjoy the flavours of a Chinese takeaway without the guilt of excessive calories or the cost. While I used a store-bought seasoning mix for convenience, it’s simple to make your own using cornflour, salt, crushed Szechuan pepper, and Chinese five spice powder.
Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, a starter, or a dinner that the whole family will enjoy, this recipe is a perfect choice. You can also customize it by adding vegetables for extra flavour.
PREP 5 minutes
COOK 12-15 minutes
SERVES 2 people
KIT you will need an air fryer, rolling pin and baking paper
Ingredients for Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken
2 chicken breasts
75g of fresh spinach leaves
1 packet of microwave brown rice
1 packet of salt and pepper seasoning mix
To serve:
A fresh red chilli, thinly sliced
Crispy fried onions
A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
Method
Start by laying your chicken breasts flat on a sheet of baking parchment on your work surface. Fold the parchment over to cover the top of the chicken, then use a rolling pin, meat mallet, or even the base of a heavy pan to gently pound the chicken. You don’t want to flatten it completely – just tenderise the meat and even out the thickness so it cooks more evenly in the air fryer.
Once you’ve pounded the chicken, lightly spray both sides with olive oil. This not only helps the seasoning stick but also gives the chicken a lovely golden colour when it cooks. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper, making sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Place the chicken breasts into your air fryer basket on top of the crisper plates. Set your air fryer to 190°C and cook for around 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure both sides brown evenly. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear and the outside is golden brown.
While the chicken is cooking, microwave your brown rice according to the packet instructions. Meanwhile, thinly slice a fresh red chilli and roughly chop a handful of fresh parsley. You can also get your bowls ready by adding a small handful of baby spinach leaves to each one.
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a chopping board and slice into thin strips. Now it’s time to assemble your bowls. Start with a base of spinach, add a layer of warm brown rice, then top with your sliced chicken. Garnish with red chilli slices, a sprinkle of dried onion flakes, and the chopped parsley. Simple, fresh, and full of flavour!
Tips for Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken
1. Use chicken thigh for extra juiciness
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay more tender and juicy than breast meat which is perfect for this stir-fry style dish.
2. Cut into even-sized pieces
Slice your chicken into bite-sized chunks for faster, more even cooking. Aim for uniform sizes to avoid undercooked or overcooked bits.
3. Coat lightly in corn starch
A light dusting of corn starch (or potato starch) gives the chicken its signature crisp texture so no heavy batter needed.
4. Preheat your air fryer
It always helps to set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and preheat for 2 to 3 minutes to ensure the chicken starts crisping up immediately.
5. Spray with oil
Lightly coat the chicken with oil spray before air frying to help the corn starch crisp up and turn golden.
6. Don’t overcrowd the basket
Cook in a single layer with space between the pieces. This allows hot air to circulate for an even, crispy finish. Cook in batches if needed.
7. Shake halfway through
Flip or shake the basket at the halfway mark to help the chicken cook evenly on all sides.
8. Add aromatics separately
While the chicken is cooking, stir-fry chopped garlic, chilli, and spring onions in a little oil on the hob. Toss everything together once the chicken is crispy.
9. Season last
Finish the dish with Chinese five-spice, salt, white pepper, and any extra chilli flakes or sesame seeds for maximum flavour right before serving.
10. Serve immediately
Salt & pepper chicken is best enjoyed straight away – crispy, hot, and bursting with bold flavours.
Similar recipes
If you loved this crispy, flavour-packed Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken, you’re in for a treat! Whether you’re recreating a full fake-away night or just want more quick and tasty air fryer meals, these recipes are perfect next steps. Packed with flavour and ready in a flash, they will keep your midweek dinners exciting and effortless.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, these air fried chicken tenders are a family favourite and perfect for dipping. Ideal for a fuss-free dinner or lunchbox staple.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Air fried potato wedges are the ultimate side for your salt and pepper chicken. Golden, fluffy, and perfectly seasoned. These are great for dipping into sauces or serving alongside other fake-away favourites.
Air Fryer Halloumi
Crispy, golden, and salty, air fried halloumi makes a great addition to your table. Serve as a side, snack, or part of a mix-and-match meal.
Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Crunchy, satisfying, and great with a sweet chilli dip, these air fried spring rolls make the perfect partner for any Asian-inspired dish.
Air Fryer Breaded Fish
For another crispy, takeaway-style option, try this golden air fried breaded fish. Serve with rice, chips, or even tucked into a soft roll.
These dishes are perfect for building your own fake-away night. So quick, flavourful, and made with less oil and more ease!.
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