Black Pepper Chicken
An easy black pepper chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory black pepper sauce. This dish not only comes together in no time but also surpasses your typical Chinese restaurant takeout. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this black pepper chicken is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The savory black pepper sauce gives this chicken an irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Gluten-Free Adaptable: Substitute tamari for soy sauce and dry sherry for Shaoxing wine to make it gluten-free.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is packed with nutrients and flavors that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to streamline your experience in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the chicken.
- Mixing Bowls: Having separate bowls makes it easier to marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce without any cross-contamination.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (or soy sauce)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 white onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (I used mixed colors)
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Gently mix by hand until the chicken is coated with a thin layer of the mixture. Marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Mix well and set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet.
Spread it into a single layer using a spatula, ensuring minimal overlap.
Sear for about one minute until lightly browned.
Flip the chicken; cook for another 30 seconds to one minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet.
Toss in minced ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant.
Add chopped white onion and bell peppers; stir and cook for about 20 seconds.
Step 5: Combine Sauce with Chicken
Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely.
Pour it into the skillet with vegetables. Stir immediately until thickened enough to coat a spoon.
Return cooked chicken to skillet; quickly toss everything together to coat with sauce.
Turn off heat and transfer everything to a big plate so it doesn’t continue cooking.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve your delicious black pepper chicken hot as a main dish!
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Steamed Rice
- Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic pairing. The rice absorbs the rich black pepper sauce, making each bite delightful.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a lighter option, spoon the chicken mixture into fresh lettuce leaves. This adds a crunchy texture and freshness that complements the savory flavors.
With Noodles
- Toss the black pepper chicken with cooked noodles for a hearty meal. Use egg noodles or rice noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.
On a Salad
- Create a colorful salad by adding the chicken on top of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle with extra sauce for added flavor.
As Tacos
- Use small tortillas to wrap the chicken with toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime. This twist brings a fun fusion element to your dining experience.
With Stir-Fried Vegetables
- Serve alongside other stir-fried vegetables for an extra nutrient boost. Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy work well to complement the dish.
How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
To make sure your Black Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
-
Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic provide robust flavors that dried counterparts cannot match.
-
Control Heat: Keep your skillet hot when adding chicken to achieve that beautiful sear without overcooking.
-
Thicken Sauce Correctly: Stir the sauce continuously after adding it to the pan to prevent clumping and ensure even coating.
-
Serve Immediately: To enjoy the best texture and flavor, serve the dish right after cooking while it’s still hot.
-
Adjust Pepper Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of black pepper according to your heat preference; more can intensify the dish further!
Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Black Pepper Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:
-
Fried Rice: A flavorful companion that combines rice with vegetables and eggs, making it a filling addition.
-
Garlic Green Beans: These sautéed green beans add crunch and a burst of flavor that balances well with the chicken.
-
Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut-infused rice complements the savory notes of black pepper chicken beautifully.
-
Egg Drop Soup: A light soup option that serves as a perfect starter before diving into your main dish.
-
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables provide a delicious appetizer or side that pairs well with dipping sauces.
-
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup brings umami flavors that harmonize nicely with this Chinese-inspired dish.
-
Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage and carrots tossed in sesame dressing adds crunch and tanginess.
-
Quinoa Salad: A nutritious grain salad with veggies provides an excellent base that enriches your meal while being healthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Black Pepper Chicken, some common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:
-
Not marinating long enough: Skipping or rushing the marination process can lead to bland chicken. Allow at least 10 to 15 minutes for the flavors to penetrate.
-
Using too much heat: Cooking on high heat without monitoring can cause the chicken to burn. Maintain a medium-high heat and watch closely while cooking.
-
Forgetting to stir the sauce: If you don’t stir the sauce mixture before adding it to the skillet, it might not thicken properly. Always mix until smooth before pouring it in.
-
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long will make it dry. Cook just until it’s browned but still slightly pink inside; it will finish cooking when added back with the vegetables.
-
Ignoring vegetable size consistency: Cutting vegetables unevenly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are similar in size for a uniform texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Black Pepper Chicken
- Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Black Pepper Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, covered, until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Black Pepper Chicken:
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute beef, pork, or tofu for a different protein option while keeping the same cooking method.
How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?
The spice level largely depends on how much black pepper you use. You can adjust according to your taste preference by increasing or decreasing the amount.
What are good side dishes for Black Pepper Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or sautéed green vegetables like bok choy or broccoli.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything ahead of time and store separately. Cook just before serving for optimal freshness.
Is Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute tamari for soy sauce and dry sherry for Shaoxing wine.
Final Thoughts
Black Pepper Chicken is an easy yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and flavorful sauce, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, this recipe allows room for customization—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level as desired! Try making this delightful meal today!
Black Pepper Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that transforms your weeknight dinners into something extraordinary. With tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory black pepper sauce, this recipe offers a delightful balance of taste and texture. Not only is it easy to make in just 20 minutes, but it also rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. Perfect for families or entertaining guests, this dish will leave everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 white onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch for 10-15 minutes.
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken until browned on both sides; remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant; add bell peppers and cook briefly.
- Stir the prepared sauce into the skillet until thickened. Return chicken to combine well.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
