Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken is a delightful dish that features juicy tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. This recipe takes no time to prepare and offers a flavor that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant takeout. Perfect for family dinners or a quick weeknight meal, it’s adaptable for gluten-free diets and can be whipped up in just 25 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of black pepper and fresh vegetables creates a savory sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust spice levels based on your preferences.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: By using tamari instead of soy sauce, this recipe can cater to gluten-free diets without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools is essential for making this black pepper chicken. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken quickly at high heat, ensuring it remains tender.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping and stirring ingredients without damaging them.
• Medium-sized bowl: Necessary for marinating the chicken evenly.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for slicing the chicken and chopping vegetables accurately.

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

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

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

Step 3: Cook 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 using a spatula with as little overlap as possible. 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 slightly pink inside. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

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

Step 5: Thicken Sauce & Combine Ingredients

Stir the previously prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch dissolves completely, then pour it into the skillet. Stir immediately with a spatula and cook until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon—just a few seconds. Return cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring quickly to coat everything with sauce. Turn off heat and remove from stove.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer everything onto a large plate immediately so that cooking stops from residual heat in the skillet. Enjoy your delicious black pepper chicken as a main dish!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

This easy black pepper chicken makes for a delicious main dish that pairs well with various sides. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice serves as a perfect base, soaking up the savory black pepper sauce.

With Noodles

• Serve black pepper chicken over stir-fried noodles for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken, adding a crunchy texture and fresh taste.

With a Side Salad

• A simple mixed green salad can balance the rich flavors of black pepper chicken, providing freshness.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To achieve the best results with your black pepper chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried versions.

• Marinate properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10–15 minutes will help develop deeper flavors.

• Control the heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures the chicken sears nicely without becoming overcooked.

• Stir constantly: When adding the sauce, stir continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even coating on all ingredients.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing side dishes with black pepper chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fried Rice – A classic side that complements the dish well; consider adding peas and carrots for extra color.

2. Chow Mein – These stir-fried noodles are flavorful and provide a delightful contrast in texture.

3. Steamed Broccoli – The mild taste of broccoli balances the bold flavors of black pepper chicken.

4. Egg Fried Rice – Rich in flavor, it adds a satisfying element that works wonderfully with this dish.

5. Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry – Colorful vegetables can add crunch and nutrients alongside your main dish.

6. Garlic Bread – For an unexpected twist, this buttery treat can soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

7. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad can cleanse the palate between bites of savory chicken.

8. Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls add another layer of texture and flavor to your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to a bland taste. Allowing it to soak in soy sauce and vinegar enhances flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much chicken at once prevents proper browning. Cook in batches for a better sear.
• Ignoring Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Ensure you stir until it thickens properly before serving.
• Using Old Spices: Outdated black pepper loses its potency. Always use fresh spices for maximum flavor impact.
• Neglecting Vegetable Prep: Cutting vegetables unevenly affects cooking time. Ensure they are uniform for even cooking.
• Cooking on High Heat Only: While high heat is important for searing, constant high heat can lead to burning. Balance with medium heat as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Black Pepper Chicken:

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and dry sherry instead of Shaoxing vinegar.

How long does it take to prepare Black Pepper Chicken?

The total preparation time is about 25 minutes, which includes both prep and cooking.

What can I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, adding a hearty component to your meal.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and crisp vegetables bathed in a savory sauce. It’s incredibly versatile; you can easily customize it by adding different veggies or adjusting spice levels. Try it tonight for a quick and satisfying meal that beats takeout!