Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken recipe awaits you, bringing together juicy tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. This dish takes no time to prepare and tastes even better than your favorite Chinese takeout! Perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests, this meal impresses with its bold flavors and quick cooking time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This black pepper chicken can be ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of black pepper, ginger, and garlic creates a deliciously aromatic dish that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Adapt the recipe to your preferences by using different vegetables or even swapping the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Easily make this dish gluten-free by switching soy sauce with tamari and using dry sherry instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar.
• Healthy Dinner Choice: With lean protein and plenty of veggies, this dish offers a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.

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Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delightful black pepper chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium-sized bowl
• Small bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook the chicken evenly while providing enough room for the vegetables.
• Medium-sized bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken, ensuring all ingredients mix thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps you flip the chicken easily without breaking it apart during cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken 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

For the Sauce

• 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

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

1. Combine chicken, soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Gently mix by hand until the chicken is coated with a thin layer of the mixture.
3. Marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients.
2. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Add the marinated chicken. Spread it into a single layer with minimal overlap using a spatula.
3. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until both sides are browned but slightly pink inside.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

1. Add remaining oil to the skillet.
2. Add minced ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant.
3. Toss in chopped white onion and bell peppers; stir-fry for about 20 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Chicken

1. Stir the sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely.
2. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables; stir immediately until thickened enough to coat a spoon’s back—just a few seconds.
3. Return cooked chicken to skillet; quickly stir to coat everything with sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer everything to a big plate immediately so that it doesn’t overcook in the hot skillet. Serve hot as a main dish.

Enjoy your homemade black pepper chicken!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serving Black Pepper Chicken is all about enhancing its flavors and offering a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice pairs perfectly with Black Pepper Chicken, soaking up the rich sauce for a satisfying meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a refreshing crunch and makes for a fun, hands-on meal.

Over Noodles

• Place the Black Pepper Chicken over cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or egg noodles, for a hearty twist that complements the savory sauce.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Add more color and nutrients by serving alongside stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. This enhances both flavor and nutrition.

As a Filling for Tacos

• Use the chicken as a filling in soft tortillas with your favorite toppings for an Asian-inspired taco night.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

Perfecting your Black Pepper Chicken takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips to elevate your dish every time you make it.

• Marinate Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is well-marinated for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps enhance the flavors and tenderizes the meat.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic add depth of flavor. Avoid pre-minced products for the best taste.

• Control the Heat: Cook on medium-high heat to achieve that perfect sear. Too low will steam the chicken instead of browning it.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of black pepper to suit your taste while balancing other flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing your Black Pepper Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic choice, fried rice is flavorful and filling, making it an excellent counterpart to Black Pepper Chicken.

2. Chow Mein: These stir-fried noodles add texture and additional flavors that harmonize well with the dish.

3. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a fresh crunch that balances out the richness of the chicken.

4. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup like egg drop adds warmth to your meal without overpowering other flavors.

5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame dressing adds brightness and acidity.

6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich Black Pepper Chicken.

7. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls offer a delightful textural contrast while maintaining an Asian theme.

8. Simple Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly stir-fried bok choy provides a nutritious green option that complements the main dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not Marinating Long Enough – Marinating the chicken for at least 10 minutes enhances its flavor. Skipping this step can result in bland chicken.
• Overcooking the Chicken – Chicken should be cooked until slightly pink inside to keep it juicy. Overcooking can make it dry and tough.
• Using the Wrong Oil – Using low-smoke point oils can ruin your dish. Always choose peanut or vegetable oil for high-heat cooking.
• Ignoring the Sauce – Failing to mix the sauce well before adding it can lead to uneven seasoning. Stir until all ingredients are combined.
• Skipping Vegetables – Adding vegetables not only enhances flavors but also adds nutrition. Don’t skip them for a well-rounded meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container.
• It remains fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a savory dish featuring tender chicken and crisp vegetables coated in a rich black pepper sauce, ideal for any meal.

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and dry sherry instead of Shaoxing vinegar to make it gluten-free.

How do I customize Black Pepper Chicken?

You can add different vegetables like broccoli or snap peas or adjust the spice level by adding more or less black pepper according to your taste.

What should I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?

It pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken offers an incredible blend of flavors and textures that makes it a delightful choice for dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize with various vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!