Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken dish brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your dining table. With juicy, tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all enveloped in a rich black pepper sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes, making it a stellar alternative to takeout that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of black pepper, ginger, and garlic delivers a savory punch that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe is a wholesome choice for dinner.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily swap soy sauce for tamari to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your black pepper chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for searing the chicken evenly and allows room for cooking vegetables without overcrowding.
• Spatula: Helps turn the chicken easily and ensures even cooking while stirring the ingredients together.

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 apple vinegar (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 apple vinegar (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 apple vinegar, 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 the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir occasionally until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

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

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Chicken

Stir the sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely, then pour it into the skillet. Stir immediately until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—just a few seconds. Return cooked chicken to skillet and quickly stir several times to coat everything in sauce. Turn off heat and remove from stove. Transfer everything to a big plate so ingredients won’t continue cooking in hot skillet.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your delicious black pepper chicken hot as a main dish! Enjoy!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or a more elaborate feast, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the Black Pepper Chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite delicious.

With Noodles

• Pair the dish with stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal. The combination of tender chicken and chewy noodles is sure to satisfy.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a light option, serve the chicken in fresh lettuce leaves. This creates a fun and interactive way to enjoy your meal while keeping it fresh.

Alongside Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Complement your Black Pepper Chicken with additional stir-fried vegetables. This adds color and extra nutrients to your plate.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp side salad can balance the richness of the dish. Choose mixed greens topped with sesame dressing for an Asian flair.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To ensure your Black Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps infuse flavor into the meat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the taste significantly. Avoid using pre-minced versions for the best results.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook on high heat to achieve a nice sear on the chicken. This locks in juices and enhances flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing, which affects texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of black pepper based on your spice preference. Start small if you’re unsure!
• Serve Immediately: For optimal taste and texture, serve your dish right after cooking. This prevents sogginess from residual heat.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Serving Black Pepper Chicken with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice
   A flavorful fried rice, loaded with veggies and soy sauce, pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Black Pepper Chicken.

2. Egg Fried Rice
   Enhance classic fried rice by adding scrambled eggs for added protein and texture.

3. Garlic Broccoli
   Steamed broccoli tossed in garlic adds a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

4. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a cool counterpart to the warmth of the main dish.

5. Spring Rolls
   Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables make an excellent appetizer or side that complements Chinese flavors.

6. Quinoa Salad
   For a nutritious twist, serve quinoa mixed with bell peppers and cilantro as a filling side dish.

7. Szechuan Green Beans
   Spicy Szechuan green beans add an exciting kick that pairs wonderfully with this savory dish.

8. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup completes your meal, adding depth and comforting flavors alongside your chicken dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow your chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 10-15 minutes.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Filling the skillet too full can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary for a better sear.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old vegetables can diminish taste. Always opt for fresh black pepper and vibrant vegetables.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Monitor closely and remove it from heat while it’s still slightly pink inside.
• Neglecting Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, it won’t cling to the ingredients. Ensure you stir until it thickens properly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Black Pepper Chicken.

Can I use different vegetables in Black Pepper Chicken?

Yes, feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition.

Is Black Pepper Chicken spicy?

The dish can be mildly spicy due to black pepper. Adjust the amount of black pepper based on your tolerance.

How do I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and Shaoxing apple vinegar with dry sherry.

Can I meal prep Black Pepper Chicken?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and offers great flavor even after reheating.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile! It can be made with various proteins and vegetables, catering to different tastes. Try customizing it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy an amazing homemade meal that beats restaurant takeout!