If you’re ready to bring the sizzling flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant home, Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is about to steal the show. This crave-worthy dish stars incredibly juicy shrimp tossed in a crisp, savory shell and sparked with a lively mix of salt, cracked pepper, garlic, and feisty chilies. Every bite surprises with pops of fresh crunch and fire, making this irresistible for seafood lovers and bold flavor seekers alike. Whether you’re crafting a weekend dinner or a show-stopping appetizer, Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp effortlessly adds a restaurant-level punch to your table.

Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a celebration of simple pantry staples, each playing a unique role in perfecting the flavor and texture of Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp. These ingredients come together to create a harmony of crispiness, heat, and aromatic depth you’ll want to savor again and again.

Shrimp: Large, shell-on shrimp are best for maximum juiciness and crunch—but peeled and deveined works fine for easier eating.
Cornstarch: This is the secret to an ultra-light, shatteringly crisp coating for the shrimp.
Sichuan Peppercorns: For a signature tongue-tingling heat, crush them for extra aroma, but substitute with regular black pepper if needed.
Sea Salt: Don’t be shy here; a coarse flake really levels up the flavor of every bite.
Garlic: Sliced thin for toasty golden chips that add an irresistible aroma and crunch.
Fresh Chilies: Red and green chilies bring eye-popping color and just the right amount of gentle fire.
Green Onions: For a fresh, herby finish that ties all the flavors together.
Cooking Oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as canola or peanut oil for perfect frying.

How to Make Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by giving your shrimp a gentle rinse, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. If you’re leaving the shells on, use kitchen shears to cut the backs open for easy peeling later and to let all those flavors seep in. If you prefer, you can use peeled shrimp—just make sure they’re extra dry for crispiness.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Toss the dried shrimp in a bowl with cornstarch, making sure every shrimp is lightly but evenly coated. The cornstarch will create that signature brittle crunch you crave in great Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp. Shake off any excess before frying to avoid gummy spots.

Step 3: Prep the Aromatics

While the shrimp rest, slice your garlic into thin chips, cut the green onions diagonally, and chop both red and green chilies into tiny rings. Lightly crush the Sichuan peppercorns if using them. Having all your aromatics ready at the stove ensures they cook quickly and don’t burn.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Heat a generous layer of oil until shimmering hot. In batches, fry the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the outsides are golden and crisp and the tails turn carrot-orange. Avoid crowding the pan to keep the oil temperature steady and the shrimp stunningly crunchy. Drain briefly on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Toss with Flavor

Pour out most of the oil, leaving just a thin film. Add garlic and chilies and stir-fry briskly until fragrant and just colored. Return all the shrimp, sprinkle liberally with sea salt, ground pepper, and half the green onions, tossing to coat every nook. This step infuses all the aromatics right into the Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp.

How to Serve Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Garnishes

Finish with a scatter of reserved green onions and perhaps a few extra chili rings for color. A lemon wedge on the side offers a bright, zesty contrast if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely sings alongside a bowl of fluffy steamed jasmine rice, fragrant stir-fried greens, or cool cucumber salad. Keep the sides simple so the Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp can shine as the star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, mound the shrimp on a large platter over a nest of crispy fried noodles, or serve as finger food with spicy aioli. If you love heat, sprinkle with a pinch of extra ground Sichuan peppercorns for an unforgettable appetizer tray.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp (lucky you!), let them cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavor intensifies overnight, making for a bold next-day snack.

Freezing

While these shrimp are crispiest fresh, you can freeze any extra in a single layer before stacking. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. They’ll still retain a lot of their punch and crunch after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp on a baking sheet in a hot oven or air fryer for best results, turning once. This brings back the crispy coating and refreshes the lively aromas. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens that gorgeous crust.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, simply thaw and pat the shrimp very dry before coating. Removing as much moisture as possible helps achieve that signature crunch.

What if I can’t find Sichuan peppercorns?

No worries! Black pepper makes a delicious substitute; just use freshly cracked to maximize the flavor, or add a touch more if you like it bold.

Do I have to deep-fry the shrimp, or can I pan-fry?

You can absolutely pan-fry the shrimp in less oil for a lighter version. Just flip each side until golden and crisp—it’s a bit less crunchy, but just as tasty.

How spicy is Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp?

The heat is customizable! Use fewer chilies for a milder dish, or swap in mild peppers. For extra zip, add an extra chili or include a pinch of chili flakes.

What other proteins can I use?

This method works beautifully with calamari, scallops, or thin strips of chicken. Just adjust cooking times so everything stays juicy and tender.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp is one of those dishes you’ll crave long after the last bite. It’s a total crowd-pleaser and genuinely easy to master at home—so pull out your wok and bring those bold Chinese flavors to your kitchen tonight. Your taste buds (and your lucky dinner guests) will thank you!

Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe