Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a spicy and aromatic black pepper sauce. This version is simple to prepare and makes for a great weeknight meal or a savory dinner for guests. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dining table.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 300
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20 grams
• Fat: 12 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Sodium: 650 mg

Why Make This Black Pepper Chicken

This Black Pepper Chicken offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that make it irresistibly delicious. The tender chicken pieces coated in a savory, rich sauce are ideal for serving over steamed rice or alongside noodles. Moreover, it’s a quick dish that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something special without much hassle.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

To create this mouthwatering dish, you will marinate the chicken, prepare a savory sauce, and then sauté everything to perfection. The combination of fresh ginger, garlic, and bell peppers adds a wonderful aroma and taste that will fill your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 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
• 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
• 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)

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Combine chicken, light 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. Allow the chicken to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.

• Step 2: Mixing

  In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, coarsely ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well and set aside.

• Step 3: Cooking

  Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken, spreading it into a single layer with as little overlap as possible. Sear the chicken for about 1 minute until the bottom is lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

• Step 4: Finishing

  Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add minced ginger and garlic, stirring until fragrant. Next, add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking for about 20 seconds. Stir the sauce mixture to ensure the cornstarch is dissolved completely, then pour it into the skillet. Stir with a spatula until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring to coat everything in the sauce. Turn off the heat, remove the skillet from the stove, and immediately transfer everything to a large plate to stop the cooking process. Serve hot as a main dish.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside steamed noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with finely chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. This dish is also perfect for meal prep, so consider making a larger batch for quick lunches throughout the week.

How to Store Black Pepper Chicken

Leftover Black Pepper Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it in a skillet on medium heat until heated through. If freezing, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

1. Marinate Wisely: Letting the chicken marinate longer, if time permits, enhances flavor.
2. Adjust Spice Level: If desired, you can adjust the amount of black pepper according to your spice preference.
3. Veggie Add-Ins: Be creative! You can add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
4. Cooking Temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to sear properly.
5. Sides Matter: Serve with jasmine rice or lo mein for a more authentic feel.

Delicious Variations

• Crispy Black Pepper Chicken: For a crunchy twist, coat chicken in breadcrumbs before frying.
• Black Pepper Chicken Stir-fry: Add more vegetables like snap peas or carrots and toss with udon noodles for a filling stir-fry.
• Spicy Version: Incorporate sliced chilies or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture for added heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen chicken?
  Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and drain any excess moisture before marinating to ensure a better flavor absorption.

• What can I substitute for Shaoxing wine?
  Dry sherry or white wine can serve as good substitutes if Shaoxing wine is unavailable. Alternatively, you can use chicken broth with a splash of vinegar for a non-alcoholic version.

• Can I use other protein instead of chicken?
  Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef or shrimp—just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein selected.

• What do I do if my sauce is too thick?
  If the sauce becomes thicker than desired, you can whisk in a bit of chicken broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.

• How can I make this dish healthier?
  You can reduce the amount of sugar and use low-sodium soy sauce to make it lighter while maintaining flavor.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with fragrant spices and tender, juicy chicken. Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for all cooks, whether you are an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen. With its bold flavors and colorful presentation, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction on every plate. Try making this dish tonight and enjoy the delightful tastes that come together in such a simple, yet incredible, way!