Black Pepper Chicken
An easy black pepper chicken recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your home. This dish features juicy, tender chicken paired with crisp vegetables and a rich, savory black pepper sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also tastes even better than your usual takeout. Plus, it can be easily adapted to be gluten-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This black pepper chicken takes just 25 minutes from prep to plate, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of black pepper, ginger, and garlic creates a bold flavor that will impress your taste buds.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your preference.
- Healthy Option: With lean chicken and plenty of veggies, this dish is a nutritious choice for a balanced meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make black pepper chicken, having the right tools can make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium-sized bowl
- Small bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Allows you to cook everything evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
- Medium-sized bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken without mess.
- Spatula: Helps in flipping the chicken and mixing ingredients effortlessly.
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
- 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
Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. 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. Immediately spread it into a single layer using a spatula with little overlap. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until both sides are browned but slightly pink inside. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables
Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add minced ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant. Then add white onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Stir the sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables. Stir immediately until it thickens enough to coat a spoon’s back—this should take just a few seconds. Add back cooked chicken; quickly stir to coat everything with sauce. Turn off heat and remove skillet from stove.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer everything onto a big plate immediately so that ingredients won’t keep cooking in hot skillet. Serve hot as a main dish!
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken
Serving Black Pepper Chicken can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual dinner at home or a festive gathering. Here are some great ideas to enhance your meal.
Over Rice
- Serve the black pepper chicken over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling dish that soaks up the savory sauce.
With Noodles
- Pair it with stir-fried noodles to create a delightful mix of textures and flavors that complement the chicken.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken and veggies for a fresh, low-carb alternative that adds crunch.
As Tacos
- Fill corn or flour tortillas with black pepper chicken, topped with avocado and salsa for a fun twist on traditional tacos.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a lighter option that adds freshness to each bite.
How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken
To ensure your black pepper chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
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Marinate Properly: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic make a significant difference in taste compared to dried versions.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and ensures even browning of the chicken.
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Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of black pepper according to your heat preference; start with less if you’re unsure.
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Thicken Sauce Perfectly: Stirring constantly helps achieve the right sauce consistency without lumps from cornstarch.
Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your black pepper chicken can bring balance and variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options:
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Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious and vibrant addition that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
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Fried Rice: Classic Chinese fried rice can enhance the overall experience with its delicious seasoning.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad balances out the richness of the chicken with its cool crunch.
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Egg Fried Rice: The egg adds protein, making this side hearty while still allowing the chicken to shine.
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Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls provide a delightful contrast in texture and pair well with dipping sauces.
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Miso Soup: A light soup can help cleanse the palate between bites of rich black pepper chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong cut of chicken: Choosing chicken breasts instead of thighs can lead to dryness. Opt for thighs for juiciness and flavor.
- Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken reduces its flavor. Always let it soak in the marinade for at least 10-15 minutes.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches for better browning.
- Ignoring the sauce thickness: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, it won’t coat the chicken properly. Ensure you stir until it reaches a coating consistency.
- Cooking on high heat all the time: While searing is important, constantly using high heat can burn your ingredients. Adjust as needed for even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Black Pepper Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date for reference.
Reheating Black Pepper Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Black Pepper Chicken that might help you enhance your cooking experience.
Can I use different vegetables in Black Pepper Chicken?
Yes! You can add any vegetables you like, such as broccoli or snap peas, to suit your taste.
Is Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and Shaoxing wine with dry sherry.
How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?
The spice level depends on how much black pepper you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice!
What can I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?
Serve this dish over rice or noodles, or pair it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Black Pepper Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful homemade meal that rivals any takeout!
Black Pepper Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Black Pepper Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine to your kitchen in just 25 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe features tender chicken combined with fresh vegetables and a savory black pepper sauce that outshines your favorite takeout. With the ability to customize ingredients and make it gluten-free, this dish is both versatile and nutritious. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe for a delightful culinary experience!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
- Assorted vegetables (onion, bell peppers, garlic, ginger)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch for 10-15 minutes.
- Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken until browned, then set aside.
- Stir-fry ginger, garlic, onion, and bell peppers briefly.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and stir until thickened; return chicken to pan and coat well.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
