Olivia Carter
If you’re a fan of the delicious combination of spicy and savory flavors, then you’ll love this recipe for salt and chilli chicken made in an air fryer. Using an air fryer not only makes this dish healthier by reducing the amount of oil used, but it also ensures that the chicken comes out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time.
To make this dish, you’ll need some boneless chicken pieces, such as breast or thigh, cut into small bite-sized chunks. You’ll also need some basic ingredients like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cornstarch, as well as some chili flakes or fresh chili for that extra heat. The cornstarch helps to create a crispy coating on the chicken and also helps to hold the flavors of the spices and seasonings.
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Then, coat the chicken with a thin layer of cornstarch. This will help to create a crispy texture when cooked in the air fryer. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add some chili flakes or freshly chopped chili at this stage.
Preheat your air fryer to around 200 degrees Celsius. Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Set the timer for around 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, flipping the pieces halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help to retain its juiciness. Serve the salt and chilli chicken hot, garnished with some fresh spring onions or coriander. You can enjoy it on its own as a snack or as a main dish with some steamed rice or noodles.
This recipe for salt and chilli chicken in an air fryer is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The crispy and spicy chicken will satisfy your craving for a delicious and indulgent treat. Give it a try and enjoy this mouthwatering dish!
Preparing Ingredients for Salt And Chilli Chicken
Before you can start cooking your delicious salt and chilli chicken in the air fryer, you’ll need to gather and prepare all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cornflour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 green chillies, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Make sure to wash and pat dry the chicken thighs before starting the recipe. This will help ensure that they cook evenly and are free from any excess moisture.
Step 1: Gathering the Ingredients
Before you begin making salt and chilli chicken in an air fryer, it’s important to gather all of the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chilli powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
Make sure you have all of these ingredients on hand before you start cooking. It’s also a good idea to double-check your pantry to ensure you have enough of each ingredient.
Step 2: Preparing the Chicken
Before you start cooking the chicken, it is important to prepare the ingredients properly. Follow these steps to ensure your salt and chilli chicken turns out delicious:
1. Clean and marinate the chicken
Start by cleaning the chicken pieces thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the marinade of your choice. You can use a simple marinade made by mixing soy sauce, ginger-garlic paste, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the chicken pieces are coated evenly.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
2. Prepare the coating mixture
In a separate bowl, prepare the coating mixture. Mix all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and other seasonings of your choice. You can add paprika, chili powder, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.
Whisk the mixture until well combined.
3. Coat the chicken
Take each marinated chicken piece and dip it into the coating mixture, making sure it is evenly coated. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or baking tray.
Repeat this step for all the chicken pieces.
Allow the coated chicken pieces to rest for about 10 minutes. This will help the coating adhere better to the chicken during the cooking process.
Now that you have prepared the chicken, you are ready to move on to the next step: cooking the salt and chilli chicken in the air fryer.
Cooking Salt And Chilli Chicken in Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken, try making salt and chilli chicken in an air fryer. This cooking method allows you to achieve the same crispy texture and flavorful taste without the excess oil. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare!
What You’ll Need:
To cook salt and chilli chicken in an air fryer, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 500g chicken breast, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornflour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 red chili pepper, sliced
- 1 green chili pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Vegetable oil spray
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cornflour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and Chinese five-spice powder. Coat the chicken pieces with this mixture, making sure each piece is well coated.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for a few minutes.
3. Spray the air fryer basket with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
5. Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be crispy and golden brown.
6. While the chicken is cooking, heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced chili peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Saute for a few minutes until the vegetables are softened.
7. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, vinegar, tomato ketchup, and honey. Pour this sauce over the sauteed vegetables and cook for another minute or two, until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Once the chicken is done cooking, transfer it to a serving plate and pour the sauce and vegetable mixture over it. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
9. Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot.
This salt and chilli chicken made in an air fryer is a perfect dish for those who want to enjoy the taste of fried chicken without the guilt. It’s crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor. Serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or as a main course with steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking the salt and chilli chicken in the air fryer, it’s important to preheat the appliance. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy texture.
To preheat your air fryer:
1. Plug in the Air Fryer
First, make sure your air fryer is plugged into a power source and turned on.
2. Set the Temperature
Next, set the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy texture on the chicken.
3. Set the Timer
After setting the temperature, set the timer for 5 minutes. This gives the air fryer enough time to reach the desired temperature.
Once the preheating process is complete, the air fryer will beep or notify you in some way. At this point, you can proceed with cooking the salt and chilli chicken.
Note: It’s important to follow the specific preheating instructions for your specific air fryer model, as different appliances may have slight variations in temperature and timing.
FAQ
What is the recipe for salt and chilli chicken in an air fryer?
The recipe for salt and chilli chicken in an air fryer involves marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of salt, chilli flakes, garlic powder, and cornstarch. The chicken is then air fried until crispy and tossed in a combination of salt, chilli flakes, peppers, onions, and garlic.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating and cooking it in the air fryer. Cooking times may vary slightly if using frozen chicken.
How long does it take to cook salt and chilli chicken in an air fryer?
The cooking time for salt and chilli chicken in an air fryer can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. On average, it takes about 15-20 minutes at 180°C (356°F) to cook the chicken until it is crispy and cooked through.
What can I serve with salt and chilli chicken?
Salt and chilli chicken goes well with steamed rice, noodles, or as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe. The cooking time may be slightly longer as chicken thighs are usually thicker than chicken breasts. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
