Black Pepper Chicken

An easy Black Pepper Chicken recipe brings the vibrant flavors of a Chinese restaurant right to your kitchen. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich black pepper sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s quick to prepare and offers a delightful combination of savory and spicy that will impress anyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of ginger, garlic, and coarsely ground black pepper creates a bold taste that rivals takeout.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can use chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference, plus substitute vegetables as desired.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily modify the recipe for gluten-free diets by using tamari and dry apple juice.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish is a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your essential tools. Using the right equipment can streamline your process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for searing the chicken evenly without overcrowding.
• Medium-sized bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken so it absorbs all the flavors.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping the chicken and stirring ingredients without damaging them.

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Ingredients

To make this flavorful Black Pepper Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 white onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Gently mix by hand until all pieces are coated. Let the chicken marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients—chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Set aside after mixing well.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in minced ginger and garlic; stir briefly until fragrant. Add chopped onion and bell peppers; stir-fry for about 20 seconds until just tender.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Chicken

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch is fully dissolved. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables; cook while stirring until thickened enough to coat back of a spoon. Return cooked chicken to skillet; quickly stir everything together to coat with sauce.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Turn off heat and promptly transfer everything onto a large serving plate to prevent overcooking. Enjoy your delicious Black Pepper Chicken hot as a main dish!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serving Black Pepper Chicken can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides to enhance its flavors.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that absorbs the savory sauce perfectly.
• Fried Rice: Add an extra layer of flavor with vegetables and scrambled eggs mixed in.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with chicken and veggies for a lighter option.
• Tortilla Wraps: Spread the chicken mixture in a tortilla for a delicious handheld meal.

Over Noodles

• Rice Noodles: Light and chewy, they soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Egg Noodles: These offer a heartier texture, complementing the tender chicken well.

As Part of a Platter

• Vegetable Platter: Serve with assorted fresh vegetables for a colorful presentation.
• Dipping Sauces: Include soy sauce or chili paste on the side for added flavor options.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To make your Black Pepper Chicken truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes for deeper flavor absorption.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the aroma and taste significantly.
• Control Heat: Cook over medium-high heat to achieve that perfect sear without overcooking the chicken.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust salt and sugar according to your preferences before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Black Pepper Chicken brings out its rich flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious green that adds color and crunch; steam lightly to keep it vibrant.
2. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fry with garlic enhances its natural sweetness while providing a crunchy texture.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad dressed in sesame oil balances the dish’s spiciness.
4. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic deliver both flavor and nutrition alongside your main dish.
5. Fried Rice Cakes: Crispy rice cakes can add an interesting texture contrast to the soft chicken.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables offers a healthy, protein-packed side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not marinating the chicken long enough – Short marination time can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 10-15 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Ignoring the heat level – Cooking on too low heat prevents a good sear. Use medium-high heat to achieve that perfect brown color and texture.
• Overcooking the chicken – Overcooked chicken turns dry and tough. Remove it from heat while slightly pink inside; it will continue cooking with residual heat.
• Skipping the sauce mixing step – Failing to mix the sauce thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Always stir until cornstarch is fully dissolved before adding it to the skillet.
• Not using fresh ingredients – Stale spices or old vegetables can compromise taste. Always opt for fresh ginger, garlic, and peppers for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Black Pepper Chicken.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey works well as a substitute and maintains a similar texture and flavor profile.

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?

The spiciness primarily comes from black pepper. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for heat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using tamari instead of soy sauce and dry apple juice instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar, you can make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables like broccoli or snap peas.

How do I make Black Pepper Chicken less salty?

To reduce saltiness, use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust other seasonings accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and a rich black pepper sauce. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give this easy recipe a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!