Black Pepper Chicken
An easy black pepper chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory black pepper sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you crave something delicious yet simple. With its rich flavors, it can easily rival your favorite Chinese takeout while being adaptable for gluten-free diets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This black pepper chicken comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The savory black pepper sauce elevates the dish, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your preferences.
- Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily switch to tamari and dry sherry to enjoy this dish without gluten.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious black pepper chicken.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A good-sized skillet ensures even cooking and allows ample space for all ingredients.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce without mess.
- Spatula: Helps in evenly spreading the chicken while searing and mixing ingredients seamlessly.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 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
For the Sauce
- 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
For Cooking
- 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, 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 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken. Immediately spread it into a single layer using a spatula, ensuring minimal overlap. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until both sides are browned but slightly pink inside. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Introduce minced ginger and garlic. Stir quickly until fragrant. Add chopped onion and bell peppers; stir-fry for about 20 seconds.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely, then pour into the skillet. Stir immediately with a spatula until thickened enough to coat a spoon’s back—just a few seconds. Return cooked chicken to skillet and stir gently to coat everything with sauce. Turn off heat and remove from stove.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer everything onto a large plate immediately so that ingredients don’t continue cooking in residual heat. Serve hot as a main dish.
Enjoy your homemade black pepper chicken!
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it on a bed of rice or alongside fresh greens, there are several serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Steamed Rice
- Serve the chicken over fluffy steamed rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the rich black pepper sauce, making every bite flavorful.
In a Stir-Fry Bowl
- Create a vibrant stir-fry bowl by adding cooked rice noodles or quinoa. Top it with the black pepper chicken and your choice of fresh herbs.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair the dish with a light salad featuring mixed greens and crunchy vegetables. The freshness of the salad balances the savory flavors of the chicken.
Wrapped in Lettuce
- For a fun twist, serve the chicken wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for an easy and refreshing hand-held option.
On a Bed of Cauliflower Rice
- For a low-carb alternative, use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. It complements the dish well while keeping it healthy.
How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
To make your Black Pepper Chicken even more delightful, here are some tips to consider when preparing this dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables enhance flavor significantly.
- Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer can result in deeper flavor absorption.
- Control Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve that perfect sear while keeping the chicken juicy.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more coarsely ground black pepper or chili flakes.
- Sauce Consistency: Ensure your sauce thickens just right—too thin won’t coat well, too thick may overpower.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoying it hot off the stove ensures optimal taste and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fried Rice: This classic side adds texture and flavor; toss in peas and carrots for extra nutrition.
- Sautéed Broccoli: Lightly sautéed broccoli provides crunch and color while balancing out the dish’s richness.
- Egg Fried Rice: A savory choice that combines eggs with rice for added protein; quick to prepare!
- Vegetable Lo Mein: Noodles tossed with colorful veggies make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls offer a delightful crunch; their dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is light yet satisfying and complements the spices in the chicken well.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad adds coolness; it’s simple yet enhances your meal experience.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quickly stir-fried bok choy brings a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with bold dishes like Black Pepper Chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take the time to let it sit for at least 10 minutes in the marinade for better taste.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Sear it just until lightly browned and still slightly pink for juicy results.
- Using Too Much Sauce: Adding excessive sauce can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor.
- Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables diminishes the dish’s freshness. Always choose crisp, vibrant veggies for an appealing presentation and taste.
- Not Stirring Enough: Failing to stir while cooking can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to keep everything moving in the skillet for even heat distribution.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Black Pepper Chicken
- Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Black Pepper Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Black Pepper Chicken.
Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute soy sauce with tamari and Shaoxing wine with dry sherry to make it gluten-free.
What vegetables work well with Black Pepper Chicken?
You can use bell peppers, onions, broccoli, or snap peas. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!
How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?
The spiciness mainly comes from black pepper. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of black pepper used.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Just cook everything fresh when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that offers amazing flavor and versatility. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spice levels!
Black Pepper Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. This easy recipe features tender chicken stir-fried with vibrant vegetables, all coated in a savory black pepper sauce that delivers a delightful kick. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests, this dish can be customized to suit various dietary needs, including gluten-free options. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch for 10-15 minutes.
- Combine sauce ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat oil and sear the marinated chicken until browned; set aside.
- Add ginger and garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir-fry vegetables briefly before adding the prepared sauce; cook until thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, mix well, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
