Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want something flavorful and satisfying. This dish is not only quick to prepare, but it also offers a bold taste that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This black pepper chicken can be on your table in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for hectic days.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of black pepper and savory sauces delivers a robust flavor that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use any variety of chicken and vegetables you have on hand to customize the dish to your liking.
• Healthier Option: With lean protein and fresh veggies, this recipe is a nutritious alternative to traditional takeout.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily make this dish gluten-free by swapping soy sauce with tamari.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, ensure you have the right tools ready. These essential items will help you prepare the black pepper chicken efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized bowl
• Small bowl
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for evenly cooking the chicken and allowing for enough space to stir-fry the vegetables.
• Medium-sized bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken, ensuring it absorbs all the flavors.
• Small bowl: Useful for mixing sauces without cluttering your workspace.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping and stirring ingredients without breaking them apart.

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 Stir-Frying

• 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 using a spatula with as little overlap as possible. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

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

Step 5: Combine Everything

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely; pour it into the skillet. Stir immediately with a spatula until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon—this should take just a few seconds. Add back in cooked chicken; quickly stir a few times to coat everything in sauce. Turn off heat and remove from stove.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Immediately transfer everything onto a big plate so that ingredients won’t continue cooking in the hot skillet. Serve hot as a main dish.

Enjoy your delicious homemade black pepper chicken!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or preparing a family meal, here are some suggestions for serving this flavorful dish.

Serve Over Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrance of jasmine rice complements the savory black pepper sauce beautifully.
• Fried Rice: For an extra kick, serve the chicken over fried rice that includes vegetables and scrambled egg.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh flavor and pop of color.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and enhance the dish’s presentation.

Pair with Noodles

• Chow Mein: Toss your black pepper chicken with stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal.
• Rice Noodles: Serve over soft rice noodles for a gluten-free option that absorbs the delicious sauce well.

Make it a Salad

• Asian-Inspired Salad: Combine your chicken with mixed greens, carrots, and a sesame dressing for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw adds texture and pairs well with the savory flavors of the chicken.

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How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To ensure your Black Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will provide more vibrant flavors than dried versions.
• Control the Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve that perfect sear without overcooking the chicken.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of black pepper or use milder peppers in your stir-fry.
• Thicken Sauce Correctly: Stirring the sauce until it thickens ensures it coats all ingredients evenly.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve your dish right after cooking to maintain its freshness and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious and bright, steamed broccoli adds color and balances out the richness of the chicken.
2. Fried Rice: A classic pairing that infuses additional flavors through vegetables and soy sauce in the rice.
3. Egg Drop Soup: This light soup offers warmth and comfort alongside your main dish.
4. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
5. Spring Rolls: Crunchy spring rolls filled with vegetables create a delightful appetizer or side option.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A healthy grain alternative that absorbs sauces beautifully while providing added nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness. Always take the time to let it soak for at least 10 minutes.
• Not using enough black pepper: The dish’s signature taste comes from black pepper. Be generous with it, but adjust to your spice preference.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect browning.
• Ignoring the sauce thickness: A good sauce should coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer; if too thick, add a little broth.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the dish’s flavor. Use them instead of dried versions for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container
• Keeps well for up to 3 days

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container
• Good for up to 3 months

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Black Pepper Chicken, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use other proteins in Black Pepper Chicken?

You can definitely substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for different variations while keeping the same delicious sauce.

What vegetables can I add to Black Pepper Chicken?

Feel free to include broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and texture. Customize based on your preferences!

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?

The spice level mainly depends on how much black pepper you use. Adjust according to your taste; you can always start with less.

Is Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

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

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful recipe that’s both quick and satisfying. Its versatility allows for various protein and vegetable combinations tailored to your taste. Try it today and enjoy a comforting meal that feels like takeout but is even better at home!