Black Pepper Chicken
An easy black pepper chicken is a dish that brings together juicy tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, providing a delightful taste that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant takeout. With its gluten-free adaptations and quick preparation, this black pepper chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience you’ll want to repeat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of black pepper, ginger, and garlic creates a savory sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or switch up the protein to suit your taste.
- Gluten-Free Adaptable: Use tamari in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Healthy Option: With lean chicken and fresh veggies, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your black pepper chicken efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the must-have items for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium-sized bowl
- Small bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken evenly and allows the sauce to thicken properly.
- Medium-sized bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken without spilling ingredients.
- Spatula: Necessary for flipping the chicken and mixing ingredients smoothly.
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 (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.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken. Spread it into a single layer using a spatula with minimal overlap. Sear for about one minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to one minute. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate.
Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Incorporate minced ginger and garlic; stir until fragrant. Then add chopped onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds.
Step 5: Combine Sauce with Chicken
Stir the prepared sauce until cornstarch dissolves completely. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables. Stir immediately and cook until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add back in cooked chicken, stirring quickly to combine all ingredients with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Turn off heat and remove from stove right away to prevent further cooking in residual heat. Transfer everything onto a big plate and serve hot as a main dish.
Enjoy your homemade black pepper chicken!
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken
Serving Black Pepper Chicken can elevate your dining experience, making it a delightful meal for family or guests. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this flavorful dish.
With Steamed Rice
- Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauce.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a fun twist, spoon the chicken into fresh lettuce leaves for a crunchy, low-carb option.
Accompanied by Noodles
- Pair with stir-fried noodles or rice noodles tossed in sesame oil for an Asian-inspired meal.
With Stir-Fried Vegetables
- Serve alongside a mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables to add more crunch and nutrition to your plate.
As Part of a Meal Prep
- Portion out the chicken into meal prep containers with grains and veggies for easy lunch options throughout the week.
How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
To ensure your Black Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
-
Marinate well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
-
Use high heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps sear the chicken quickly, keeping it juicy inside while achieving a nice crust.
-
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of browning.
-
Stir constantly: When adding the sauce, keep stirring until it thickens. This prevents burning and ensures even coating.
Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken
When serving Black Pepper Chicken, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its rich flavors.
- Fried Rice: A quick and tasty option that’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic enhance the meal’s freshness.
- Egg Fried Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with eggs adds protein and texture.
- Asian Slaw: A light and crunchy slaw with sesame dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad drizzled with vinegar balances out the dish’s heat.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering other flavors.
- Jasmine Rice: Aromatic jasmine rice is another classic base that pairs well with savory dishes like this one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making black pepper chicken, there are common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your meal is a success.
- Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing flavor. Without it, your chicken may taste bland.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once can lead to steaming rather than searing. Cook in batches for better browning.
- Not using freshly ground black pepper: Pre-ground pepper lacks flavor and aroma. Freshly grinding your pepper enhances the dish’s taste significantly.
- Ignoring the sauce thickness: If you don’t allow the sauce to thicken properly, it may not coat your chicken and vegetables well. Adjust cooking time as needed for the right consistency.
- Choosing low-quality soy sauce: The quality of soy sauce affects overall flavor. Opt for a good brand to elevate your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover black pepper chicken in an airtight container.
- It can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Black Pepper Chicken
- Place cooled black pepper chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Black Pepper Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding black pepper chicken.
Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine to make this dish gluten-free.
How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?
The spice level depends on how much black pepper you use. You can adjust this based on your preference by adding more or less.
What can I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I add vegetables to my Black Pepper Chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to include any vegetables you like, such as broccoli or snap peas, for added nutrition and color.
Final Thoughts
Black pepper chicken is not only quick to prepare but also versatile and full of flavor. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that rivals takeout!
Black Pepper Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade Black Pepper Chicken, a dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with savory goodness. This easy black pepper chicken recipe features tender chicken pieces, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich black pepper sauce that rivals your favorite takeout. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is adaptable for gluten-free diets and customizable with your favorite vegetables. In just 25 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced
- 1 tablespoon light 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 (mixed colors)
Instructions
- Marinate the sliced chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch for 10-15 minutes.
- Whisk together sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken until lightly browned; remove from skillet.
- Stir-fry ginger, garlic, onion, and bell peppers until fragrant and tender.
- Add the prepared sauce to the skillet, stirring until thickened. Return the chicken to combine.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
