Black Pepper Chicken is a tantalizing dish that brings together bold flavors and succulent pieces of poultry. This Asian-inspired recipe is celebrated for its simplicity and depth, making it a delightful choice for both weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings. The combination of freshly cracked black pepper and aromatic ingredients elevates chicken to gourmet status, captivating both the palate and the senses.
Moreover, the versatility of black pepper chicken allows it to easily adapt to various cuisines and spice levels. Whether you prefer a mild version or a spicier kick, this dish caters to all tastes. As you dive into the recipe, the savory notes and fragrant spices will inspire your culinary creativity and satisfy your cravings.
Delicious Overview of Black Pepper Chicken:
Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful dish that blends spices and tender chicken in a delightful medley. This popular recipe, often seen in Asian cuisine, is known for its aromatic peppery kick and satisfying texture. Made with bite-sized pieces of chicken, it’s typically stir-fried with a mix of broccoli, bell peppers, and onions, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
For an easy meal that’s equally delicious, you might also enjoy Easy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, which incorporates veggies into a creamy pasta. Black Pepper Chicken can serve as a quick weeknight dinner or a standout dish for gatherings, appealing to spice lovers and those new to cooking alike. The key to perfecting this recipe lies in balancing the black pepper and other seasonings, creating a mouthwatering experience. Enjoy it over steamed rice or noodles to elevate your dining experience!
Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken:
To create a flavorful Black Pepper Chicken dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, sliced against the grain into 1/4-inch thick pieces
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce (for marinade)
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (for marinade)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for marinade)
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce (for sauce)
- 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (for sauce)
- 2 tsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
- 1.5 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
- 0.125 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp peanut oil or vegetable oil, divided
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 white onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
This dish features a delightful marinade that enhances the chicken’s flavor. For another quick chicken recipe, check out this honey mustard chicken wings that also brings a unique taste to your table.
Black Pepper Chicken is perfect for serving over rice or noodles. The combination of black pepper and vegetables creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
How to Prepare Black Pepper Chicken:
To create the flavorful dish known as Black Pepper Chicken, start by marinating 1 pound of sliced chicken using light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. This mixture ensures the chicken pieces remain tender and absorb all the flavors. In a bowl, combine 0.5 cup of chicken broth, additional light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, coarsely ground black pepper, and salt to make the sauce.
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of peanut or vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté minced ginger and garlic until fragrant, then add chopped onion and colorful bell peppers, cooking until soft. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked. Finally, pour in the prepared sauce, bringing everything to a delightful simmer. For more delicious chicken recipes, explore this 20-minute Mongolian Chicken that is equally quick and savory.
For a complete guide, visit this black pepper chicken recipe. Enjoy this classic Asian dish served over rice or noodles, making dinner an easy and tasty endeavor!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Chicken:
To achieve the best Black Pepper Chicken, start with fresh ingredients. Always choose high-quality chicken, as this can greatly affect the dish’s flavor. For an irresistible marinade, mix soy sauce, garlic, and freshly cracked black pepper. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Additionally, searing the chicken in a hot skillet ensures a deliciously browned exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Do not overcrowd the pan; this helps maintain a nice sear. If you want to explore complementary flavors, consider pairing your Black Pepper Chicken with a side of Easy Cola Chicken. This sweet and tangy dish contrasts beautifully with the pepper’s heat.
Lastly, garnish your dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for a vibrant touch. These small adjustments will elevate your Black Pepper Chicken, making it a standout meal at any table. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Black Pepper Chicken:
Enhance your Black Pepper Chicken experience with delightful side dishes and accompaniments. For a balanced meal, consider serving it over fluffy steamed rice. The grains absorb the dish’s fragrant sauce, making each bite a burst of flavor. Alternatively, a fresh green salad can complement the warmth of the chicken, offering a crisp contrast. You might enjoy a simple Easy Chicken Broccoli Orzo as well, which pairs perfectly with the spiciness of this dish.
To elevate your dinner, add some garlic bread on the side to mop up the flavorful sauce. For a fun twist, you can serve the Black Pepper Chicken in pita pockets, inspired by our Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch Recipe. This option brings a new texture and additional flavors, especially perfect for gatherings. Whatever you choose, these serving suggestions will surely bring joy to your table!
Storage Tips for Black Pepper Chicken:
To keep your flavorful Black Pepper Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop to preserve moisture. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides; try it alongside easy chicken broccoli orzo for an exciting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What ingredients are essential for making Black Pepper Chicken?
To prepare a mouthwatering Black Pepper Chicken, you’ll need key ingredients such as chicken breast, black pepper, garlic, soy sauce, and vegetables like bell peppers and onion. The combination of these elements results in a savory, spicy dish that’s both fragrant and vibrant.
Can I use different meats for a Black Pepper dish?
Absolutely! While this recipe traditionally uses chicken, you can substitute it with beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each variation offers a unique take on the classic flavor profile.
How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?
The spiciness of Black Pepper Chicken can be adjusted according to your taste. Using more black pepper will intensify the heat, while you can balance it with sweeter sauces or additional vegetables.
Is Black Pepper Chicken a healthy choice?
This dish can be a healthy option if you incorporate plenty of vegetables and use lean cuts of meat. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and limit added sugars to enhance its nutritional value.
How does Black Pepper Chicken differ from other chicken recipes?
Unlike other chicken dishes that may rely on heavy sauces or cream, Black Pepper Chicken focuses on simpler flavors, allowing the spice of black pepper to shine through for a bold yet straightforward taste.
Are there any great side dishes to pair with Black Pepper Chicken?
You can serve this dish with fluffy rice or noodles to balance its flavors perfectly. Alternatively, a refreshing salad or steamed vegetables can also complement the heartiness of the Black Pepper Chicken beautifully. For a twist, check out this Easy Chicken Dumpling Casserole that features a great blend of textures and flavors.
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Black Pepper Chicken: A Flavorful Favorite for All!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorsome stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a spicy black pepper sauce, complemented with colorful bell peppers and aromatic garlic and ginger.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breasts or thighs sliced against the grain into 1/4-inch thick pieces
1 tbsp light soy sauce for marinade
1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
for marinade
1 tbsp cornstarch for marinade
0.5 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp light soy sauce for sauce
2 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
for sauce
2 tsp dark soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch for sauce
1.5 tbsp sugar
2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
0.125 tsp salt
2 tbsp peanut oil or vegetable oil divided
1 tbsp fresh ginger minced
2 cloves garlic minced
0.5 white onion chopped
2 bell peppers chopped
mixed colors
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch for marinating. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt to make the sauce.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Sauté the minced ginger, garlic, and chopped onion until fragrant.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the sauce mixture. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables.
- Serve the Black Pepper Chicken hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your spice tolerance. This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Black Pepper Chicken, stir-fry, chicken recipes, Asian cuisine, quick meals