Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with crisp vegetables and a rich, savory black pepper sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also tastes better than your usual Chinese restaurant takeout. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The rich black pepper sauce elevates the dish, providing a warm and savory taste that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this black pepper chicken with various vegetables or proteins to suit your preferences.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting tamari for soy sauce and dry sherry for Shaoxing wine.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and colorful veggies, it fits well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized bowl
• Small bowl
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook the chicken evenly without overcrowding, ensuring it gets that perfect sear.
• Spatula: A good spatula helps in flipping the chicken easily without breaking it apart, maintaining its tenderness.

Ingredients

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. Marinate for 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: 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 with minimal overlap. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add minced ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant. Then add chopped onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch is fully dissolved, then pour it into the skillet. Stir immediately until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—this should only take a few seconds. Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and quickly stir everything together so that it’s evenly coated with sauce. Turn off heat and remove from stove.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer everything onto a large plate immediately to avoid overcooking in the hot skillet. Serve this delicious black pepper chicken hot as a main dish!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black pepper chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a family meal, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the black pepper chicken over fluffy white rice for a comforting meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, making each bite delicious.

With Noodles

• Pair this chicken dish with stir-fried noodles for an Asian-inspired feast. The noodles add another layer of texture and soak up the rich sauce beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve black pepper chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun and interactive meal where everyone can assemble their own wraps.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Complement the chicken with steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to enhance the nutrient value. The fresh vegetables balance out the savory flavors.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a platter with black pepper chicken, dumplings, and spring rolls. This is perfect for sharing and adds variety to your meal.

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How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To ensure your black pepper chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Marinate well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use high heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve that desirable sear and locks in juices.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh ginger and garlic for maximum flavor impact in your sauce.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of coarsely ground black pepper based on your taste preference.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy your black pepper chicken right after cooking to experience it at its best!

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing side dishes with black pepper chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic side that complements the flavors of black pepper chicken while adding texture.
2. Egg Rolls: These crispy appetizers provide an enjoyable crunch and are great for sharing.
3. Garlic Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy brings freshness and a slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the rich sauce.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing adds a cool element to the meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a wholesome alternative to rice or noodles.
6. Sesame Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in sesame oil create a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken.

These side dishes not only complement your main course but also add more colors and textures to your plate!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Not marinating long enough: Marination is crucial for flavor. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes for the best results.
• Using too much sauce: Balance is key in this dish. Using too much sauce can overpower the chicken and vegetables. Stick to the recommended amounts.
• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too much chicken at once, it can steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Neglecting to stir-fry properly: Stir-frying is about high heat and quick cooking. Keep the ingredients moving in the pan to achieve that perfect texture.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic add depth of flavor. Don’t substitute dried versions if you want an authentic taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion out servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Black Pepper Chicken:

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, by using tamari instead of soy sauce and dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine, you can easily make this dish gluten-free.

How can I customize my Black Pepper Chicken?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like broccoli or snap peas. You can also adjust the amount of black pepper based on your spice preference.

What should I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad for a balanced meal.

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The meat should be no longer pink inside when cut open.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Pork or beef can be used as alternatives, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is not only quick and easy to prepare but also offers rich flavors and textures that will impress anyone at your table. With options to customize ingredients and adjust spice levels, this recipe caters to various tastes and dietary needs. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that rivals your favorite takeout!