Black Pepper Chicken
An easy black pepper chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of juicy, tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and savory black pepper sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. With its quick preparation time and ability to rival your favorite Chinese takeout, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This black pepper chicken can be made in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Sauce: The rich black pepper sauce adds depth and excitement to the dish, elevating simple ingredients.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this recipe is a wholesome choice for health-conscious diners.
- Gluten-Free Adaptable: Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare black pepper chicken smoothly, having the right tools handy is essential. These tools will make your cooking experience efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without sticking, allowing for easy flipping and cleaning.
- Mixing bowls: Ideal for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce ingredients effectively.
- Spatula: Useful for spreading the chicken in a single layer during cooking and for stirring the sauce quickly.
- Measuring spoons: Helps ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
An easy black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. It takes no time to put together and tastes better than your usual Chinese restaurant takeout! {Gluten-Free Adaptable} To make the dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce (both light and dark), and use dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine.
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. Allow it to 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. Spread it into a single layer using a spatula with minimal overlap. Sear for about 1 minute or until lightly browned. Flip the chicken 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.
Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables
Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Then add ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant. Next, add white onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds until slightly softened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch dissolves completely. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables. Stir immediately while cooking until thickened enough to coat a spoon; this should only take a few seconds. Add back cooked chicken into the skillet; stir quickly several times to coat everything with the delicious sauce.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Turn off heat and remove skillet from stove immediately. Transfer everything onto a large plate so ingredients won’t keep cooking in residual heat. Serve hot as a main dish!
Enjoy your homemade black pepper chicken that’s sure to satisfy cravings for flavorful Chinese cuisine!
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken
Serving black pepper chicken is as delightful as preparing it. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing you to create a meal that fits your taste and occasion.
Over Steamed Rice
- Steamed white rice is a classic choice that absorbs the savory black pepper sauce perfectly, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a fresh twist, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a crunchy texture and makes for a fun, interactive meal.
With Noodles
- Pairing black pepper chicken with noodles, such as chow mein or rice noodles, creates a satisfying dish that captures all the rich flavors.
On a Bed of Vegetables
- Serve over sautéed mixed vegetables for a colorful presentation. This not only adds nutrition but also complements the dish’s savory notes.
As Part of a Meal Prep
- Divide servings into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. This makes enjoying your favorite dish easy and convenient!
How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
Perfecting your black pepper chicken takes just a few extra steps to elevate its taste and texture.
- Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic bring out vibrant flavors compared to dried alternatives.
- Heat your skillet properly: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding chicken; this helps achieve a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and ensures proper browning of the chicken.
- Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go; feel free to add more black pepper or soy sauce according to your preference.
- Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, enjoy your dish right after cooking while it’s still hot.
Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken
Complementing black pepper chicken with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some ideal pairings:
- Fried Rice: A delicious mixture of rice, vegetables, and soy sauce that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and balances out the rich flavors of the dish.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide an aromatic crunch alongside the tender chicken.
- Egg Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice mixed with eggs offers a hearty side that is both filling and tasty.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides contrast to the savory elements of the main dish.
- Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles bring an Asian flair that complements black pepper chicken beautifully.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies are great for adding texture and variety to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and spices offers a nutritious alternative to traditional sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry and tough meat. Cook until just browned and still slightly pink inside, then remove it from the skillet.
- Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken adds flavor and tenderness. Even a short marination of 10–15 minutes can greatly enhance the dish.
- Not using enough black pepper: The key to this recipe is its name! Be generous with coarsely ground black pepper for that signature taste.
- Ignoring vegetable size: Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking. This ensures that everything is cooked properly and maintains a good texture.
- Using too much soy sauce: Balance is crucial; using excessive soy sauce can make the dish overly salty. Measure carefully according to the recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.
Freezing Black Pepper Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Black Pepper Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals on medium power, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Black Pepper Chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken is a savory dish featuring tender chicken pieces tossed with vibrant vegetables and coated in a rich black pepper sauce.
Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute tamari for soy sauce and use dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine to keep it gluten-free.
How long does it take to prepare Black Pepper Chicken?
The total time includes about 20 minutes of preparation and only 5 minutes of cooking, making it a quick meal option.
What vegetables work best for Black Pepper Chicken?
While bell peppers and onions are ideal, you can also add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Black Pepper Chicken recipe offers an incredible balance of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. It’s quick and adaptable—feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Try this dish tonight for a satisfying meal that rivals any takeout!
Black Pepper Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the bold flavors of Black Pepper Chicken, a quick and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory black pepper sauce. This easy recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its ability to rival your favorite Chinese takeout, Black Pepper Chicken is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various tastes and dietary preferences—just swap in your favorite veggies or use tamari for a gluten-free option. Enjoy this delectable stir-fry over steamed rice, in lettuce wraps, or paired with noodles for a delightful twist!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Coarsely ground black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the sliced chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch for 10–15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients and set aside.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook marinated chicken until browned; transfer to a plate.
- Stir-fry ginger, garlic, onion, and bell peppers until softened.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a simmer until thickened; return chicken to skillet and coat well.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
