Healthy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken

Craving a delicious and healthy twist on a classic Chinese takeaway favorite? Dive into our flavorful and nutritious Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken recipe that is super easy to make. Packed with a blend of spices and tangy vegetables, this delicious recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table (and you will feel much better after eating it rather than takeaway).

If you like this recipe you may also like our Baked Chicken Meatballs, Healthy Grilled Chicken Spinach Wrap or Best Sheet Pan Tofu Fajitas.

Why we love this recipe 

• simple recipe for a healthy take on a the classic chinese takeaway 
• no deep frying, no fried chicken, but still full of flavor
• great for the whole family, including picky eaters because you can separate the ingredients on the plate for them so they can pick and choose what they want to eat 

Ingredients

For Chicken Marinade

• Chicken breast or boneless skinless chicken thighs: Opt for lean, boneless skinless chicken breast for a healthier version or the boneless skinless chicken thighs for a version with more depth of flavor. 
• Black pepper: Adds a kick of heat and depth of flavor.
• Salt: Balances the spices and enhances the overall taste.
• Sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch.
• Garlic powder: Infuses a savory garlic aroma.
• Onion powder: Provides a subtle onion flavor.
• Chinese five spice: Aromatic blend of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns and fennel seeds for an authentic taste.
• Soy sauce: Adds umami and a hint of saltiness.
• Olive oil: Healthy fat for cooking and flavor.

For Veggies

• Yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and texture.
• Red pepper, cut into strips: Vibrant and rich in antioxidants.
• Chinese five spice: Enhances the vegetable medley.
• Garlic cloves, chopped: Intensifies the savory notes.
• Ground ginger: Adds warmth and depth.

How to Make This Recipe

Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine black pepper, salt, sesame seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, Chinese five spice, soy sauce, and olive oil.
2. Add chicken pieces, ensuring each is well-coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for more flavor).

Cooking

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan or wok over medium heat.
2. Cook chopped onions until translucent, then add red pepper strips, Chinese five spice, garlic, and ground ginger. Stir fry until tender-crisp.
3. Set aside the veggies.
4. In the same pan, cook chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked (6-8 minutes).
5. Add sautéed veggies to the pan with chicken pieces, mix, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serving

• Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions/green onions.
• Serve over steamed white rice or noodles.

Additions

• Spring Onions: Finely chopped spring onions add a fresh and mild onion flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Experiment with different colors for added visual appeal and varied nutrients.
• Snap Peas: Toss in some snap peas for a crisp and sweet touch.
• Cauliflower Rice: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Chilli Pepper: Add a teaspoon of chilli pepper or chilli flakes for a spicy twist. 

Variations

• Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken: Modify the cooking method for a lighter, crispier version.
• Oven-Baked Version: Coat the marinated chicken in a cornflour mixture and bake it for a more off-hands version. 

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a pan or microwave, ensuring the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature.
• Store the cooked chicken in freezer up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before heating up.

FAQ