This Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken bites bursting with flavor, making it a perfect gluten-free option for any meal.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:75 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Air Frying
Cuisine:Asian
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound Chicken Thighs (Can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.)
1/2 cup Cornstarch (For crunchy coating.)
2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Any neutral oil can work.)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh is best.)
1 tablespoon Ginger (Grated, fresh preferred.)
1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (Can use regular sugar.)
1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.)
1 teaspoon White Pepper Powder (Key for the signature flavor.)
1 teaspoon Five-Spice Powder (Can be substituted with a pinch of cinnamon.)
1/4 cup Basil (Fresh preferred.)
1 whole Lemon Wedges (For serving.)
1 tablespoon Sliced Hot Peppers (Optional for heat.)
Instructions
In a large bowl, marinate chicken thighs with vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, and salt. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
In a separate bowl, prepare the spice mix by combining white pepper powder, salt, brown sugar, and five-spice powder. Set aside.
Coat each piece of marinated chicken evenly with cornstarch, tapping off excess.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (176°C). Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray lightly with oil, and air fry for 10 minutes. Flip, increase temperature to 400°F (200°C), and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Transfer cooked chicken to a bowl and toss with half of the spice mix to coat.
Garnish with freshly shredded basil and sliced hot peppers, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Adjust salt and spices to your taste.
Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
Marinating overnight improves flavor and tenderness.