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If you love Salt & Pepper Chicken from the Chinese takeaway, this recipe changes the game.
My Air Fryer Salt & Pepper Chicken Fakeaway is crispy, spicy, high-protein and unbelievably easy. It’s lighter, cheaper, and just as good as your favourite order — all made at home in under 20 minutes. Juicy chicken thighs, crunchy peppers, and that iconic salt & pepper seasoning… it’s everything you want in a fakeaway.
Why you'll love this recipe
31 g protein per serving
Just 324 calories — lighter than the takeaway version
Ultra-crispy chicken thanks to the air fryer
Ready in under 20 minutes
Big Chinese salt & pepper flavour with minimal ingredients
This Salt & Pepper Chicken Fakeaway hits the craving every time spicy, crispy, sizzling, and macro-friendly, the perfect Friday night dinner.
Recipe Info
5 minutes
15 minutes
4
Air Fryer | High Protein | Fakeaway
Asian Inspired
Delicious Salt & Pepper Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
500 g chicken thighs, chopped into bite-size pieces
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 onion, sliced
1 tbsp chopped ginger
1 tbsp chopped garlic
1 red chilli, sliced
2 spring onions, sliced
1 packet salt & pepper seasoning (Aldi UK used)
1 tbsp Chinese five spice
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp olive oil
1 tbsp cornflour
Instructions
Air fry the chicken.
Mix chicken with cornflour, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt & pepper.
Air fry at 240°C for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.Cook the veg.
Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a pan. Add peppers, onion, ginger, garlic, chilli, and spring onions.
Season with Chinese five spice and sugar. Sauté 5–10 minutes until softened.Combine.
Add crispy chicken to the pan and toss everything together until coated and sizzling.Serve.
Top with extra spring onions and chilli if you like — then tuck in!
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From comforting classics to macro-friendly meals you’ll actually look forward to, it’s your ultimate slow cooker sidekick. Plus, you’ll unlock access to our exclusive Slow Cooker Club — tips, tricks, and members-only extras. Consider dinner sorted.
This Salt & Pepper Chicken is the ultimate macro-friendly fakeaway — high in protein, full of flavour, and unbelievably easy. Serve with rice, chips, or noodles for the full takeaway experience.
Why choose Salt & Pepper Chicken Recipe
High-Protein
Under 20 minutes to cook
Delicious and nutritious!
SWAPS + UPGRADES
Chicken breast instead of thighs: lowers calories further.
Extra spice: add chilli flakes or sriracha.
Veg boost: add mange tout, broccoli, or baby corn.
Crunchy finish: sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
Lower-carb: serve with cauliflower rice.
More Recipes at Archer Kitchen
Thanks for stopping by Archer Kitchen by Rebecca Archer. Whether you’re here for quick weekday fixes, indulgent weekend treats, or to explore new flavours, we’ve got your back. Hungry for more inspiration? Dive into my collection of recipes and check out my cookbooks for exclusive tips, tricks, and flavour-packed dishes that’ll take your cooking game to the next level. Bookmark us, come back often, and let’s keep cooking up a storm together!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead?
Yes — it cooks slightly faster, so check after 8–9 minutes.
Can I make this without an air fryer?
Bake at 220°C for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Is salt & pepper seasoning spicy?
Mild-medium heat, depending on the brand. Add more chilli if you like!
Does it keep well for meal prep?
Yes — stays crispy when reheated in the air fryer.
Is this gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure seasoning is GF.
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