Flavorful Salt And Pepper Chicken

Flavorful salt and pepper chicken is a popular dish that features crispy, seasoned chicken pieces with a hint of heat from peppers and aromatic spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 small red or green chili peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Chinese five-spice powder (if using). Mix well.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the flour mixture and toss to coat evenly, pressing the mixture onto the chicken to ensure a good coating.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to about 350°F (175°C).
4. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced chili peppers. Sauté for a minute until fragrant and slightly softened.
6. Add the fried chicken pieces to the pan with the garlic and chili peppers. Toss everything together to coat the chicken with the flavors.
7. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the salt and pepper chicken to a serving dish.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken.
9. Enjoy the flavorful salt and pepper chicken as an appetizer, main course, or as part of a delicious stir-fry!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning and spiciness levels according to your taste preferences. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or as part of a larger Asian-inspired meal.