Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

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Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is a dish that packs a flavorful punch in every bite! If you love a little heat mixed with savory goodness, you’ve arrived at the right recipe. This dish features tender chicken pieces tossed with bold black pepper, garlic, and soy sauce, creating a delicious stir-fry that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a classic stir-fry dish that originates from Chinese cuisine. It showcases the robust flavor of black pepper combined with the delicious essence of chicken and vegetables. The dish is often quick to prepare, making it a favorite for busy cooks who still want a satisfying meal.

Key Components

  • Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work best.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives the dish its distinctive taste.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds umami and helps to marinate the chicken.
  • Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and snap peas are common choices.

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is essential to make this Black Pepper Chicken shine. Here’s what you need:

For the Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

For the Stir-Fry

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas or broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

How to Prepare Black Pepper Chicken

Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and cornstarch.
  2. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated.
  3. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor.
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Mix the Sauce

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, black pepper, and sugar.
  2. Set this sauce aside as it will be added later to the stir-fry.

Stir-Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, allowing it to brown on one side.
  3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked through.
  4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  1. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced bell pepper and onion.
  2. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
  3. Add the snap peas (or broccoli), garlic, and ginger. Stir everything together for another minute.

Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables.
  2. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat all ingredients.
  3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is hot and the sauce has thickened slightly.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with side dishes.

Suggested Side Dishes

  • Steamed Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice make a nice base.
  • Noodles: Toss some cooked noodles in the pan for a complete meal.
  • Vegetable Stir-Fry: Add more veggies to balance out your plate.

Presentation Tips

  • Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a touch of color.
  • Serve in a vibrant dish to make the meal pop visually.
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Tips for Making the Best Black Pepper Chicken

To ensure your Black Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Fresh Ingredients Matter

Using fresh vegetables and spices will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish. Cracked black pepper is a key player here.

Don’t Crowd the Pan

If you have a lot of chicken, consider cooking in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, which affects the texture.

Adjust Spice Levels

Feel free to play with the amount of black pepper according to your taste. If you like it spicy, add more!

Variations of Black Pepper Chicken

There are countless variations of Black Pepper Chicken you can try to mix things up!

Different Proteins

  • Beef: Substitute chicken with thinly sliced beef for a hearty option.
  • Tofu: For a vegetarian twist, use firm tofu instead of chicken.

Unique Vegetables

Experiment with vegetables! Zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots can add different flavors and textures.

Different Flavors

  • Mongolian-Style: Add some brown sugar and hoisin sauce for a sweet element.
  • Mala Chicken: Incorporate Sichuan peppercorns for a unique spice.

Nutritional Benefits of Black Pepper Chicken

Not only is Black Pepper Chicken delicious, but it can also provide some health benefits!

Chicken as a Lean Protein

Chicken breast is a great source of protein. It helps to maintain muscle mass and promotes satiety.

Benefits of Black Pepper

Black pepper has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it may aid in digestion by stimulating the stomach lining.

Nutrient-Rich Vegetables

Including a variety of vegetables adds vitamins and minerals, making this dish more balanced.

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Storage Tips for Leftover Black Pepper Chicken

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store them properly.

Refrigeration

  1. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature.
  2. Transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
  3. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

  1. Allow completely cooled chicken to be placed in a freezer-safe container or bag.
  2. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  3. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in a pan or microwave.