Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that packs a flavorful punch and is incredibly simple to make, this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is perfect for you. With tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a bold, peppery sauce, this stir-fry comes together quickly for a delicious and healthy meal. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is versatile, packed with flavor, and easy to customize. Let’s dive into the details of this peppery delight and see how you can make it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Black Pepper Chicken is great for anyone who loves savory, bold flavors with a bit of heat. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen:

• Quick to prepare: The entire dish can be made in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the spice level to your liking.
• Healthy and balanced: Packed with protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients from chicken and veggies.
• Perfect for meal prep: This dish stores well and makes a great option for leftovers.

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious recipe. Don’t worry, the ingredients are simple and easy to find in most grocery stores.

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces

Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or regular soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or regular soy sauce)
• 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (or regular soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Stir Fry:

• 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 white onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, chopped (use a mix of colors for presentation)

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Sharp knife for slicing chicken and vegetables
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowls (for marinade and sauce)
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is essential for tenderness and flavor absorption. Start by combining your sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a bowl. Gently mix the chicken with your hands, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes. The cornstarch helps create a light crust on the chicken while stir-frying, ensuring juicy and tender results.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, spreading it out into a single layer to ensure even cooking. Sear the chicken for 30 seconds or until the bottom is lightly browned. Flip and cook for another 15 to 20 seconds, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be browned on the outside but still slightly pink inside. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics and Vegetables:
   Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced ginger and garlic, stirring for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, stirring and cooking for about 20 seconds. You want the veggies to retain some crunch, so don’t overcook them.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients—chicken broth, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Make sure the cornstarch is completely dissolved before pouring it into the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, which should take just a few seconds.
4. Combine Everything:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the rich, peppery sauce. Remove the skillet from heat immediately to avoid overcooking, and transfer the contents to a serving plate.

Key Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

• Slice the chicken thinly and evenly: This ensures quick, even cooking. Cutting the chicken against the grain also helps achieve more tender pieces.
• Use freshly ground black pepper: For the best flavor, use coarsely ground black pepper. It provides a robust kick that powdered pepper just can’t replicate.
• Avoid overcooking the vegetables: For the perfect texture, stir-fry the onions and bell peppers for just 20-30 seconds, keeping them crisp but slightly tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not marinating the chicken long enough: Even 10 minutes can make a huge difference in flavor and texture, so don’t skip or rush this step.
• Overcooking the chicken: This can make the chicken dry and tough. Sear it briefly and finish cooking once combined with the sauce.
• Undissolved cornstarch: Ensure the cornstarch in the sauce is fully dissolved before adding it to the pan. Otherwise, your sauce might turn lumpy.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Serve your Black Pepper Chicken hot with a side of fluffy white rice or fragrant jasmine rice, which will soak up all that peppery sauce. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped scallions or sesame seeds. You can also serve it with noodles for a more filling meal or alongside steamed vegetables for a healthier option.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetables: Feel free to switch out the bell peppers with broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for a different crunch and flavor.
• Spice Level: If you like it extra spicy, consider adding a few slices of fresh chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Protein: Not a fan of chicken? You can easily swap it with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a plant-based option.

How to Store Leftover Black Pepper Chicken

If you have leftovers, allow them to cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in a skillet over medium heat to retain the crispness of the vegetables. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a juicier texture and work just as well as breasts.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it. However, the texture of the vegetables might change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat by thawing in the fridge overnight and stir-frying until hot.

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with rich, bold flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish will become a regular feature in your weekly meal rotation. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family. And don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one!

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