Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Black Pepper Chicken is a mouth-watering dish that brings together the robust flavors of black pepper and tender chicken in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quick and delicious meal that is both easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, Black Pepper Chicken offers a delightful culinary experience that everyone will love.

Why Black Pepper Chicken is Great

This dish is a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The blend of black pepper with a savory sauce creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that elevates simple chicken to a gourmet level. Plus, the recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

Detailed Breakdown of Ingredients

For the Chicken:

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

For the Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or regular 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 regular soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 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

For the 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 mixed colors for a vibrant dish)

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

• Chicken: Provides the protein base for the dish. Using thighs can offer a juicier texture, while breasts are leaner.
• Black Pepper: Adds a spicy, pungent flavor that is the signature taste of the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Contributes a salty, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Shaoxing Wine: Adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Can be substituted with dry sherry.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Cutting board and knife

Marinating the Chicken

Why Marination is Important

Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. It also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicier when cooked.

Tips for Perfect Marination

1. Even Coating: Ensure that the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the marinade for consistent flavor.
2. Timing: Marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Longer marination (up to 30 minutes) can enhance the taste further.
3. Refrigeration: If marinating for more than 15 minutes, keep the chicken in the refrigerator to prevent it from becoming a food safety hazard.

Preparing the Sauce

Ingredients for the Sauce

• Chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt.

Tips for a Perfect Sauce

1. Consistency: Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the sauce mixture to avoid lumps.
2. Flavor Balance: Adjust the sugar and salt to taste for a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
3. Thickening: Cook the sauce until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which ensures it will cling well to the chicken and vegetables.

Stir-Frying the Chicken

Best Practices for Stir-Frying

1. High Heat: Use high heat to sear the chicken quickly, locking in juices and flavor.
2. Single Layer: Spread the chicken in a single layer in the skillet to ensure even cooking and browning.
3. Quick Cooking: Stir-fry the chicken just until it’s browned but still slightly pink inside; it will finish cooking when combined with the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan: This can lead to steaming rather than searing, resulting in less flavorful chicken.
2. Overcooking: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked, so keep a close eye during the stir-frying process.

Cooking the Vegetables

Choosing the Right Vegetables

Bell peppers and onions are the classic choice for this recipe, providing a sweet and crisp contrast to the spicy chicken. You can also add other vegetables like snap peas or broccoli for added variety.

Cooking Tips for Vegetables

1. Even Sizing: Cut vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Quick Stir-Fry: Cook vegetables over high heat for a short time to retain their crisp texture and vibrant color.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Steps to Perfectly Combine

1. Reheat the Pan: Add the cooked chicken back to the hot skillet with the vegetables.
2. Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and stir immediately to combine.
3. Thicken: Cook for a few more seconds until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Ensuring Even Coating

Stir continuously while adding the sauce to ensure every piece of chicken and vegetable is well coated.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation Ideas

Serve Black Pepper Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch.

Perfect Pairings (Non-Alcoholic)

Pair this dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or a bowl of hot and sour soup to complement the flavors.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

How to Store

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips

• Microwave: Reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

What can I use if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?

Dry sherry or a small amount of white grape juice mixed with vinegar can be used as a substitute.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its rich, savory flavors paired with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables make it a standout meal. Try this recipe today and experience the delightful taste of Black Pepper Chicken.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

Print