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 prepare and tastes even better than your usual Chinese restaurant takeout. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a delightful balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This black pepper chicken can be made in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of black pepper with soy sauce and fresh ginger creates a savory sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables based on what you have at home, making it adaptable to your pantry.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap traditional soy sauce with tamari to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
• Healthy Meal Choice: With lean chicken and colorful vegetables, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized bowl
• Small bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking chicken evenly without overcrowding.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping the chicken and stirring ingredients without damaging them.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities, which is key for balancing flavors.

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 to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, additional cornstarch, sugar, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well and set aside so it’s ready when needed.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat one 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 an additional thirty seconds to one minute until both sides are browned but slightly pink inside. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in minced ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant. Next, add chopped white onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about twenty seconds until they begin to soften.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables; stir immediately as it cooks until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon—just a few seconds will do! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and quickly stir everything together so it’s nicely coated in sauce.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Turn off heat and promptly transfer everything onto a large plate to prevent further cooking from residual heat. Serve hot as a main dish alongside rice or noodles for a complete meal!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serving Black Pepper Chicken can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this dish’s flavors and presentation.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant aroma complements the savory black pepper sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor to the meal.

On a Bed of Vegetables

• Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy provides a crisp texture and fresh taste.
• Stir-Fried Broccoli: This adds color and crunch, making it visually appealing.

As Part of a Stir-Fry Feast

• Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry: Pair it with other stir-fried veggies like carrots and snap peas for variety.
• Noodle Stir-Fry: Serve on top of stir-fried noodles for a delicious twist.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Butter Lettuce Leaves: Use tender lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken for a fun finger food option.
• Cabbage Leaves: Provides a crunchier texture that holds up well against the sauce.

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How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To make your Black Pepper Chicken truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will provide bolder flavors compared to dried alternatives.
• Control Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that the chicken sears nicely without overcooking.
• Thicken Your Sauce: Stirring continuously while adding the sauce helps achieve the perfect consistency.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and promotes even browning of the chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Black Pepper Chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A classic side that absorbs flavors well and adds a satisfying texture.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls offer a crunchy contrast and can be filled with vegetables or meat.
3. Miso Soup: Light yet flavorful, miso soup can cleanse the palate between bites of rich chicken.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad provides a cool balance to the spicy black pepper sauce.
5. Chow Mein: Soft noodles tossed with vegetables complement the chicken’s bold flavors wonderfully.
6. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans add color and nutrition, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making black pepper chicken, avoid these common mistakes to ensure the best results.

• Not marinating long enough: Marination enhances flavor. Allow the chicken to soak in the sauce for at least 15 minutes for the best taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken can become tough if cooked too long. Cook just until it’s no longer pink in the center for tender meat.
• Ignoring vegetable size: Cutting vegetables too large can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly with the chicken.
• Skipping the sauce thickening step: Failing to thicken your sauce can lead to a watery dish. Always stir until the sauce coats the back of a spoon for a rich texture.
• Using too much heat: Cooking on very high heat may burn your ingredients. Use medium-high heat to achieve perfect browning without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store black pepper chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last for about 2 months.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding black pepper chicken:

Can I make black pepper chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute tamari for soy sauce and dry sherry for Shaoxing wine to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, pork, or even tofu as a vegetarian option.

How spicy is black pepper chicken?

The spice level is adjustable; using less black pepper will result in a milder dish.

What can I serve with black pepper chicken?

Pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and chop vegetables beforehand to save time during cooking.

Final Thoughts

Black pepper chicken is not only quick and easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy restaurant-quality takeout from the comfort of your home!