Black Pepper Chicken
An easy black pepper chicken dish brings together juicy, tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, savory black pepper sauce. This delightful meal is perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave something tasty yet simple to prepare. Unlike typical takeout options, this recipe allows you to customize flavors and ingredients while ensuring freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This black pepper chicken takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of ginger, garlic, and black pepper creates an irresistible savory sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have at home, including using different vegetables or proteins.
- Healthy Option: With lean chicken and fresh veggies, this recipe offers a nutritious alternative to greasy takeout.
- Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily modify this dish to fit gluten-free diets by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Tools and Preparation
To make black pepper chicken efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Prevents food from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for marinating the chicken and mixing sauces without spills.
Ingredients
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 recommended)
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine chicken with 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. Allow it to marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients—chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat one 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 one minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another thirty seconds to one minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of oil to the same 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.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely before pouring it into the skillet with vegetables. Stir immediately until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon’s back—this should take just a few seconds. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together several times to ensure even coating with the sauce. Turn off heat.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Transfer everything onto a large plate immediately so that it does not continue cooking in the hot skillet. Enjoy your delicious homemade black pepper chicken as a main dish!
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken
Serving Black Pepper Chicken is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the right accompaniments can elevate this dish.
With Steamed Rice
- Jasmine Rice – This fragrant rice absorbs the savory black pepper sauce beautifully.
- Brown Rice – A healthier option rich in fiber, perfect for a nutritious meal.
With Noodles
- Egg Noodles – Soft and chewy, they complement the chicken perfectly.
- Rice Noodles – Gluten-free and light, these noodles soak up flavors well.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Butter Lettuce – Crisp leaves provide a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm chicken.
- Romaine Lettuce – A sturdier option that holds up well against the filling.
With Stir-Fried Vegetables
- Broccoli and Carrots – Quick stir-fried veggies add color and nutrients to your plate.
- Snap Peas and Bell Peppers – These veggies keep their crunch while adding sweetness to the dish.
How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
To achieve a mouthwatering Black Pepper Chicken, pay attention to details during preparation. Here are some tips to perfect your dish:
- Marinate Properly – Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor absorption.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh ginger and garlic will provide a more vibrant taste than dried alternatives.
- Control Heat Levels – Cook over medium-high heat for ideal browning without drying out the chicken.
- Thicken Sauce Correctly – Stir continuously when adding the sauce mixture to ensure it thickens evenly without clumping.
- Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed hot; serving immediately keeps textures crisp and flavors fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Black Pepper Chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish:
- Fried Rice – A classic choice; toss in leftover vegetables for added nutrition.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls – Crispy rolls filled with veggies make for an appealing starter.
- Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad that balances the spice of the chicken with its coolness.
- Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks provide a delicious vehicle for soaking up any remaining sauce.
- Asian Slaw – Shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in sesame dressing offer crunch and tanginess.
- Miso Soup – A light soup to start your meal; its umami flavor pairs well with the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook simple steps that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Marination: Marinating the chicken enhances flavor and tenderness. Always allow at least 10–15 minutes for marination.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic significantly improve flavor. Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best taste.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches for better browning.
- Ignoring the Sauce Thickness: The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. Keep stirring until it reaches this consistency before adding the chicken back in.
- Serving Without Garnish: Presentation matters! Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for an appealing finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last for 3–4 days in the fridge.
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). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 15–20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for about 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to Black Pepper Chicken that you might find helpful.
Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine.
What vegetables can I add to Black Pepper Chicken?
You can include broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?
The black pepper provides a mild heat. You can adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, shrimp, or tofu as alternatives.
Final Thoughts
Black Pepper Chicken is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packs a burst of flavor that rivals takeout options. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this delightful recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Black Pepper Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that transforms tender chicken and vibrant vegetables into a savory stir-fry, all enveloped in a rich black pepper sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to enjoy a homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout while offering the flexibility to customize ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
- 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
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 2 teaspoons dark 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 recommended)
Instructions
- Marinate sliced chicken with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch for 10–15 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing chicken broth, soy sauces, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt in a bowl.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook marinated chicken until lightly browned.
- Stir-fry minced ginger and garlic with chopped onion and bell peppers until fragrant.
- Pour in the prepared sauce; stir until thickened. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
