Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken recipe with juicy tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce is perfect for any occasion. This dish takes no time to prepare and tastes better than your usual takeout, making it great for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. The standout quality of this black pepper chicken lies in its bold flavors and quick cooking time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be on your table in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of black pepper, ginger, and garlic creates an explosion of flavor that delights the palate.
• Versatile: Perfect as a standalone meal or served with rice or noodles, this dish fits various occasions.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal plan.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily modify it to suit gluten-free diets by swapping soy sauce for tamari.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you start. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking process and ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for searing chicken evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and combining sauce ingredients thoroughly.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping the chicken and stirring vegetables without damaging them.

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Ingredients

To prepare this delicious black pepper chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 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
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 white onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors preferred)

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Gently mix by hand until the chicken is coated with a thin layer. Marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer using a spatula to minimize overlap. Sear for about one minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 30 seconds to one minute until both sides are browned but slightly pink inside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add minced ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant. Then add chopped white onion and bell peppers, stirring and cooking for about twenty seconds.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch dissolves completely then pour it into the skillet. Stir immediately to prevent clumping, cooking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—this should take only a few seconds. Return cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring quickly to coat everything with sauce before turning off heat.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer everything to a large plate promptly so that ingredients don’t continue cooking in residual heat from the skillet. Serve hot as a main dish.

With this easy black pepper chicken recipe, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time! Enjoy!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serving Black Pepper Chicken can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual family meal or a special occasion. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to complement this flavorful dish.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve the Black Pepper Chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, allowing the sauce to soak into the grains for added flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves as wraps for the chicken, creating a fun and fresh way to enjoy the dish while adding a crunchy texture.

Paired with Noodles

• Enjoy Black Pepper Chicken with stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal. The sauce adds an extra kick to the noodles, making them irresistible.

On a Salad

• Toss the chicken on top of a green salad. The savory flavors of the chicken pair nicely with fresh veggies and a light dressing.

As Part of a Platter

• Serve Black Pepper Chicken alongside other Chinese-inspired dishes like spring rolls or dumplings for a delightful sharing platter.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To achieve the perfect Black Pepper Chicken, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes ensures it absorbs all the flavors from the soy sauce and vinegar.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger can significantly enhance the aroma and taste of your dish, making it more vibrant.

• Control Heat: Searing the chicken at medium-high heat gives it that lovely brown color. Avoid overcrowding in the pan for even cooking.

• Stir Consistently: When adding your sauce, stir continuously until it thickens. This prevents clumping and ensures an even distribution of flavors.

• Serve Immediately: To keep everything fresh and hot, serve your Black Pepper Chicken right after cooking. This maintains its texture and flavor integrity.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Black Pepper Chicken can create a more balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A classic companion that absorbs flavors well; add peas and carrots for extra color.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked mixed vegetables add crunch and nutrition; use broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious; its slight bitterness balances the savory chicken nicely.
4. Egg Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with scrambled eggs complements the main dish perfectly.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad dressed with rice vinegar adds brightness to your meal.
6. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a delicious crunch alongside the rich chicken.
7. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles make an excellent side, offering a nutty flavor contrast.
8. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed alternative that pairs well with robust flavors; mix in herbs and lemon juice for zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Using too much soy sauce: Overdoing the soy sauce can make the dish overly salty. Stick to the recommended amounts for balanced flavor.
• Not marinating the chicken: Skipping the marination process can result in less flavorful chicken. Allow at least 10-15 minutes for the flavors to penetrate.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once can cause it to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Ensure you stir until it thickens properly before adding back the chicken.
• Neglecting vegetable freshness: Using wilted or old vegetables can lead to an unappealing texture and taste. Always opt for fresh, crisp vegetables for a vibrant dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil, reheating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a delicious dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked with bell peppers and coated in a savory black pepper sauce.

How can I customize my Black Pepper Chicken?

You can add your favorite vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or adjust the level of black pepper based on your spice preference.

Is Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is not just quick and easy; it’s also incredibly versatile! With juicy chicken and a rich sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving takeout. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins—this dish is sure to become a household favorite!