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–+ servings
Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken

Crispy Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken You’ll Love

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.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Bites
  • 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.
For the Marinade
  • 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.
For the Spice Blend
  • 1 teaspoon White Pepper Powder Key for the signature flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Five-Spice Powder Can be substituted with a pinch of cinnamon.
For Garnishing
  • 1/4 cup Basil Fresh preferred.
  • 1 whole Lemon Wedges For serving.
  • 1 tablespoon Sliced Hot Peppers Optional for heat.

Equipment

  • Air fryer

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. 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.
  2. In a separate bowl, prepare the spice mix by combining white pepper powder, salt, brown sugar, and five-spice powder. Set aside.
  3. Coat each piece of marinated chicken evenly with cornstarch, tapping off excess.
  4. 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.
  5. Transfer cooked chicken to a bowl and toss with half of the spice mix to coat.
  6. Garnish with freshly shredded basil and sliced hot peppers, and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow chicken to marinate longer for more intense flavor. Air fry in small batches for best results.

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