Air Fryer Salt & Pepper Chicken
This air fryer salt & pepper chicken hits every craving I have when I want something crispy, savory, peppery, and insanely addictive — without deep frying.
Servings 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces (450 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice (optional but traditional)
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon oil
For the Salt & Pepper Topping
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 green chilies, sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Combine chicken with salt, black pepper, and five-spice. Mix well so every piece is coated.
- Add cornstarch and toss evenly. Lightly drizzle oil. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and golden.
- Heat oil in a pan. Sauté garlic, onion, and green chilies for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt, black pepper, and white pepper.
- Add crispy chicken and toss quickly so everything coats beautifully.
- Serve hot over rice, noodles, stuffed in bao, or as a snack plate.
Notes
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Fridge: Up to 3 daysFreeze (raw seasoned chicken only): Up to 2 months
Reheat: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 4–5 minutes — crisp comes back beautifully
Taste & Texture
Crispy shellJuicy center
Fragrant garlic + onion
Fresh chili heat
Punchy pepper + subtle warmth from five-spice It tastes like your favorite Chinese restaurant dish — just lighter.