Black Pepper Chicken
Are you in the mood for something hearty and savory that’s also quick to whip up? Black Pepper Chicken is the answer. With its tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, flavorful sauce punctuated by the kick of black pepper, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something delicious. It’s a favorite in many Asian homes, not just for its vibrant flavors but also for its ease of preparation. Allow me to share my love for this recipe and why it might become a staple in your kitchen!
Why you’ll love this dish
This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is a culinary gem for several reasons. First off, it’s incredibly quick to make—dinner can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights. The combination of saucy chicken with colorful bell peppers not only ticks the box for a visually appealing dish but also provides a balance of flavor and nutrients. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to create a delightful meal without breaking the bank.
But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what one satisfied cook had to say:
"This recipe was a hit with my family! It’s so easy to make, and the flavors are just incredible! We’ll definitely be making this again."
The cooking process explained
Making Black Pepper Chicken is simple and straightforward, even for novice cooks. Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor, then sear it until golden brown. Toss in some fresh vegetables and pour over a silky sauce that ties everything together beautifully. Within a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s ready to serve. It’s a delightful experience that’s just as satisfying to prepare as it is to enjoy.
What you’ll need
Before diving into the cooking, gather these ingredients to make your Black Pepper 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
- 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 (preferably mixed colors)
Feel free to swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free option or use other types of peppers based on your preference!
Step-by-step instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Mix gently until the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce by mixing all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and spread it evenly in the pan. Allow it to sear for about a minute until lightly browned, then flip to cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. The chicken should still be slightly pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir in the minced ginger and garlic, cooking just until fragrant. Then, add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking for about 20 seconds.
Give your sauce mixture a good stir to ensure the cornstarch is dissolved and pour it into the skillet. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens, just a few seconds. Return the chicken to the skillet, quickly mixing it with the sauce to coat thoroughly. Turn off the heat right away to avoid overcooking.
Transfer everything onto a large plate, and your savory Black Pepper Chicken is ready to be served!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Black Pepper Chicken, the options are limitless! A classic choice is serving it over steamed white rice or fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delightful sauce. For a healthier twist, try it with quinoa or brown rice. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a fresh green salad to add some crunch.
Don’t forget to garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for that extra touch!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? You can keep your Black Pepper Chicken fresh! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to the pan and gently heat it on low to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Tips to make
Marinating Time: Although 10-15 minutes is sufficient, allowing the chicken to marinate for longer (up to 30 minutes) will deepen the flavor.
Cooking Temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that desirable crust and seals in the juices.
Cook in Batches: If you’re cooking a larger batch, consider doing it in two rounds. It helps to maintain the heat and get that nice sear.
Recipe variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe! Consider adding a splash of sesame oil for a nutty flavor, or toss in some additional veggies like snap peas or carrots for added color and nutrients. For spice lovers, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring a delightful heat. Vegetarian? Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option that soaks up the sauce beautifully!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from prep to table.
Can I use different types of chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide even more flavor and juiciness compared to breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Is it okay to make this dish ahead of time?
You can certainly prepare the marinated chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Cooking it fresh shortly before serving will yield the best texture and flavor.
There you have it! Black Pepper Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings joy and flavor to your dining table. Whether you’re cooking for family or yourself, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Enjoy!
Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Mix gently until the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce by mixing all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and spread it evenly in the pan. Allow it to sear for about a minute until lightly browned, then flip to cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. The chicken should still be slightly pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir in the minced ginger and garlic, cooking just until fragrant. Then, add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking for about 20 seconds.
- Give your sauce mixture a good stir to ensure the cornstarch is dissolved and pour it into the skillet. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens, just a few seconds.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, quickly mixing it with the sauce to coat thoroughly. Turn off the heat right away to avoid overcooking.
- Transfer everything onto a large plate, and your savory Black Pepper Chicken is ready to be served!
