Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken recipe features juicy tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. This dish takes no time to put together and tastes better than your usual Chinese restaurant takeout. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delicious black pepper chicken in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of black pepper, ginger, and garlic creates a rich and savory sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use different vegetables or proteins based on what you have at home for a personalized twist.
• Health-Conscious Option: This recipe is gluten-free adaptable by using tamari instead of soy sauce, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy the taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant right from your kitchen, without the added preservatives.

Tools and Preparation

To make black pepper chicken with ease, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have items that will simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized bowl
• Small bowl
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook the chicken evenly and allows for easy stirring of ingredients.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping the chicken and mixing the sauce without damaging the ingredients.
• Medium-sized bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken and combining sauces efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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 apple vinegar (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 apple vinegar (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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Gently mix by hand until the chicken is coated with a thin layer. Marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Mix well until fully combined 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 in a single layer using a spatula. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir in minced ginger and garlic quickly until fragrant. Add chopped onion and bell peppers; stir and cook for around 20 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Chicken

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch dissolves completely. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables. Stir immediately until sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—this should take only a few seconds. Add back cooked chicken to coat everything with the sauce before turning off heat.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Immediately transfer everything onto a serving plate so that it doesn’t continue cooking in the hot skillet. Serve hot as a main dish!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serving black pepper chicken is an opportunity to impress your family and friends with a delicious meal that looks as good as it tastes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve your black pepper chicken over a fluffy bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a filling meal.

With Noodles

• Pair the dish with stir-fried noodles for a delightful twist. The noodles soak up the savory sauce beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a light option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. It’s fresh, crunchy, and great for dipping!

With Steamed Vegetables

• Complement your black pepper chicken with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for added color and nutrition.

As a Stir-Fry Bowl

• Create a stir-fry bowl with brown rice, black pepper chicken, and assorted sautéed vegetables for a wholesome meal.

With Egg Fried Rice

• Serve alongside egg fried rice to add extra flavor and protein to your plate.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To make sure your black pepper chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables enhance the overall taste and texture of the dish.
• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes ensures maximum flavor absorption.
• High Heat Cooking: Cooking over medium-high heat helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken while keeping it juicy inside.
• Sauce Consistency: Stir the sauce well before adding it to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved for even thickening.
• Don’t Overcook: Remove the chicken from heat when it’s just cooked through; it will continue cooking slightly after being removed from heat.
• Serve Immediately: To enjoy the best texture and flavor, serve your black pepper chicken right after cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing side dishes with black pepper chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic that complements the flavors while absorbing the rich sauce.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cooked veggies add crunch and color to your meal.
3. Egg Fried Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with eggs creates a satisfying side.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that balances the spiciness of the dish.
5. Garlic Bread: A fun addition that soaks up any leftover sauce.
6. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables add texture and variety to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the soy sauce and vinegar mixture for at least 10 minutes.
• Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too much chicken at once, it will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches or use a large skillet to maintain space between pieces.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing stale spices or old vegetables can compromise taste. Always use fresh ginger, garlic, and vibrant bell peppers for the best flavor.
• Ignoring Sauce Thickness: If you don’t let the sauce thicken properly, it may not cling to the chicken. Stir continuously until it coats the back of a spoon.
• Serving Cold: Serving Black Pepper Chicken cold can detract from its appeal. Always serve hot right after cooking for the best experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Divide into portions for easy reheating.

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: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken stir-fried with bell peppers and coated in a savory black pepper sauce. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce and dry sherry for Shaoxing apple vinegar.

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?

The spiciness mainly comes from coarsely ground black pepper. You can adjust the amount based on your preference, making it milder or spicier as desired.

What sides go well with Black Pepper Chicken?

Serve it alongside steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Can I customize the vegetables in Black Pepper Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or carrots based on what you have available or enjoy most.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. With tender chicken and vibrant vegetables enveloped in a rich black pepper sauce, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adapt it to suit dietary needs. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a family favorite!

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Black Pepper Chicken

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Introducing a delightful twist on your weeknight meals: Black Pepper Chicken. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken pieces stir-fried with vibrant bell peppers and enveloped in a rich, savory black pepper sauce. In just 25 minutes, you can recreate the bold flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout right in your kitchen, impressing family and friends alike. Whether served over fluffy rice or nestled in crisp lettuce wraps, this versatile recipe allows for personal touches with different vegetables and proteins. Plus, it’s adaptable for gluten-free diets, making it a winning choice for everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Marinate the sliced chicken in light soy sauce, Shaoxing vinegar, and cornstarch for 10-15 minutes.
2. Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook marinated chicken until browned (about 2 minutes).
4. Remove chicken; sauté ginger, garlic, onion, and bell peppers briefly.
5. Add sauce to the skillet; stir until thickened.
6. Return chicken to the skillet; coat with sauce and serve hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Feel free to swap vegetables based on preference or seasonality. For an extra kick, adjust the amount of black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.