Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken pieces and a delightful blend of spices, making it an instant favorite in any household. This dish is perfect for those who crave a little heat without overwhelming their taste buds. With its savory sauce highlighting the bold flavor of black pepper, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends alike. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this easy-to-follow recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Not only does it come together in under 30 minutes, but it also allows for customization based on your preferences. You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables for an extra crunch. If you are looking for a new go-to dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, look no further than this Black Pepper Chicken recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Onion: Use a medium-sized onion, sliced thinly; yellow or white onions work best in this recipe
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper offers the best flavor; adjust according to your spice preference
- Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce and helps coat the chicken evenly
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Black Pepper Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and onions become translucent.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add seasoned chicken pieces into the skillet. Cook them until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately six to eight minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another two to three minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra black pepper if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the chicken in soy sauce and black pepper overnight
How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken
This Black Pepper Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Simply mix all the sauce ingredients, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to use within 24 hours.
- Storing: Leftover Black Pepper Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to two months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs for Black Pepper Chicken:
What is Black Pepper Chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken is a popular dish that features tender chicken pieces sautéed in a savory sauce enriched with black pepper and various spices. This dish is commonly enjoyed in Asian cuisine, particularly in Chinese and Thai restaurants. The rich flavor comes from the use of fresh ground black pepper, which gives it a distinct kick. The chicken is often paired with vegetables like bell peppers and onions, enhancing both the flavor and color of the dish. It can be served over steamed rice or noodles, making it a versatile meal option for any time of day.
How do you make Black Pepper Chicken at home?
To make Black Pepper Chicken at home, start by marinating chicken pieces in soy sauce, garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Heat oil in a pan and stir-fry the marinated chicken until it turns golden brown. Add your choice of vegetables, such as bell peppers and green onions, to the pan. Continue cooking until everything is well combined and cooked through. A splash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce can enhance the flavor further. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! While Black Pepper Chicken is traditionally made with chicken, you can substitute it with other proteins like beef, shrimp, or tofu. Each protein will absorb the flavors of the marinade differently but will still yield a delicious result. When using beef or shrimp, adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure each protein is cooked perfectly. Tofu offers a great vegetarian alternative; just ensure it’s pressed well to remove excess water before marinating.
Is Black Pepper Chicken spicy?
The spiciness level of Black Pepper Chicken largely depends on how much black pepper you use during preparation. For those who enjoy heat, adding extra freshly ground black pepper can enhance its spice quotient significantly. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the amount of black pepper used in the recipe while still enjoying its unique flavor profile. Additionally, you can add ingredients like red chili flakes for an extra kick without overwhelming the dish.
What are some good side dishes for Black Pepper Chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its bold flavors. Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice makes an excellent base for soaking up the savory sauce. For those looking to add more vegetables to their meal, stir-fried greens such as bok choy or broccoli provide both color and nutrition. Alternatively, serving it alongside a light cucumber salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness.
How do I store leftovers of Black Pepper Chicken?
Storing leftovers of Black Pepper Chicken is simple and convenient. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days safely. To reheat, simply microwave it until heated through or warm it on the stovetop over low heat while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions for up to two months; just remember to label them with dates for reference.
Conclusion for Black Pepper Chicken:
In conclusion, Black Pepper Chicken offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it an appealing option for any meal. Whether you choose to prepare it with traditional chicken or experiment with different proteins like beef or tofu, this dish remains versatile and satisfying. The ability to adjust spiciness levels allows everyone to tailor their experience according to personal preference. Pairing it with sides like jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables elevates your dining experience even further. With these tips and recipes at your disposal, you are well-equipped to enjoy this delectable dish at home!
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Delicious Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Black Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that captivates with its aromatic blend of spices and tender chicken. This Asian-inspired stir-fry showcases the bold kick of freshly ground black pepper, balanced with savory soy sauce and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe can be customized to suit your taste—whether you prefer it spicier or loaded with colorful veggies. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave your family and friends asking for more.
Ingredients
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Fresh garlic
– Onion (yellow or white)
– Low-sodium soy sauce
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Cornstarch
Instructions
1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sauté sliced onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add seasoned chicken; cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
4. Mix soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl; pour over the chicken.
5. Stir well to coat; cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra black pepper.
Notes
– For added flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and black pepper overnight.
– Feel free to swap proteins or add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 30g