Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken recipe features juicy, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also tastes better than your usual Chinese restaurant takeout! Perfect for any occasion, it offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This black pepper chicken can be made in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of black pepper, soy sauce, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste that stands out.
• Healthier Option: With lean chicken and lots of veggies, this dish is a nutritious choice compared to takeout.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily make this dish gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare black pepper chicken efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for searing the chicken evenly while allowing vegetables to cook quickly.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping the chicken without breaking it apart and for stirring the ingredients seamlessly.

Ingredients

Chicken and 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

Sauce Ingredients

• 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

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 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

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Sear 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 another 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: Cook the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Introduce minced ginger and garlic; stir until fragrant. Add chopped onion and bell peppers; stir-fry for about 20 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Stir the sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely; pour it into the skillet. Stir immediately until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—this should take just a few seconds. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together quickly to coat with sauce. Turn off heat and transfer everything onto a large plate immediately.

Step 6: Serve Hot

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

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serving black pepper chicken is a great way to impress family and friends with a delicious homemade meal. This dish is versatile and complements various sides or can be enjoyed on its own. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve the black pepper chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making every bite delightful.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, spoon the chicken into crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a fresh crunch and makes for an enjoyable finger food.

Accompanied by Noodles

• Pair the black pepper chicken with stir-fried noodles. The combination of flavors and textures will create a satisfying dish that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your serving with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness. The herbs enhance the overall taste and presentation of the dish.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a colorful platter by serving black pepper chicken alongside other Chinese-inspired dishes like spring rolls or dumplings. This makes for an impressive spread at gatherings.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

Perfecting black pepper chicken involves attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out flavorful and tender every time.

• Marinate well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes helps infuse it with flavor and ensures tenderness.
• Use high heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that the chicken sears properly, creating a nice crust while keeping it juicy inside.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing, which affects texture.
• Stir quickly: When adding the sauce, stir immediately to prevent it from clumping. This ensures an even coating on all ingredients.
• Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve black pepper chicken right after cooking. This keeps everything fresh and vibrant.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Complementing your black pepper chicken with the right side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A classic pairing, fried rice adds flavor and texture, making it a hearty side that balances well with the main dish.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A mix of colorful vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce can add nutrition and freshness to your plate.
3. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat provide crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a light starter that prepares your palate for the main course.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a cool counterpart to the spicy black pepper chicken.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds nutrients but also brings vibrant color to your meal, enhancing presentation.
7. Chow Mein Noodles: These pan-fried noodles offer another textural element while complementing the flavors of black pepper chicken beautifully.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Adding pickled vegetables provides an acidic contrast that brightens up the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking black pepper chicken can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for achieving the best results.

• Skipping the marinade – Not marinating the chicken can lead to less flavor. Always marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the pan – Adding too much chicken can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect brown crust.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency – If your sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Make sure to stir until thickened to enhance the dish’s overall texture.
• Using low-quality ingredients – Poor quality soy sauce or spices can ruin your dish. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to maximize flavor.
• Not adjusting heat levels – Cooking at too high or low a temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Keep an eye on the heat to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store black pepper chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing black pepper chicken.

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black pepper chicken has a mild spice level, primarily from coarsely ground black pepper. You can adjust the amount of black pepper if you prefer more heat.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, shrimp, or tofu as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting soy sauce with tamari and using dry sherry instead of Shaoxing vinegar, you can make it gluten-free!

What vegetables pair well with Black Pepper Chicken?

Bell peppers and onions are great choices. You can also add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.

Can I meal prep Black Pepper Chicken?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions carefully.

Final Thoughts

Black pepper chicken is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor! This dish offers versatility as you customize it with different proteins and vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try for a delightful homemade meal that rivals takeout!