Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken recipe brings juicy, tender chicken together with crisp vegetables and a rich, savory black pepper sauce. This dish takes minimal time to prepare and delivers flavors that rival your favorite Chinese takeout. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this black pepper chicken is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This black pepper chicken can be ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of black pepper, garlic, and ginger creates a robust and savory flavor that elevates your meal.
• Versatile: Pair this dish with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Health-Conscious Option: With lean chicken and plenty of vegetables, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
• Easily Adaptable: Make it gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari and using dry apple juice instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar.

Tools and Preparation

To make black pepper chicken effortlessly, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth cooking and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows for even cooking of the chicken and vegetables while providing enough space to stir without spilling.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping the chicken evenly and mixing ingredients without damaging them.
• Bowl: Useful for marinating the chicken and mixing sauces; having separate bowls helps keep things organized.

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Ingredients

An easy black pepper chicken with juicy tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. It takes no time to put together and tastes better than your usual Chinese restaurant takeout! {Gluten-Free Adaptable} To make the dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce (both light and dark), and use dry apple juice instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar.

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 apple juice)
• 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 apple juice)
• 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 Stir-Frying

• 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 the ingredients for the marinade in a medium-sized bowl:
1. In the bowl, add sliced chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, and cornstarch.
2. Gently mix by hand until each piece is coated with a thin layer.
3. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Combine all the sauce ingredients.
2. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer using a spatula.
3. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned on one side.
4. Flip the chicken carefully and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside.
5. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet:
1. Add another tablespoon of oil along with minced ginger and garlic.
2. Stir quickly until fragrant, then add chopped onion and bell peppers.
3. Cook while stirring for about 20 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Chicken

Return to making your black pepper chicken:
1. Stir the prepared sauce mixture again until cornstarch dissolves completely.
2. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables; stir immediately as it cooks until thickened enough to coat back of a spoon—this should only take a few seconds.
3. Add back in the cooked chicken; stir quickly to ensure everything is well coated in sauce.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Immediately transfer everything onto a large plate so that it doesn’t continue cooking in the hot skillet:
– Enjoy your delicious black pepper chicken hot as a main dish!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious meal for optimal enjoyment.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve the Black Pepper Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal that absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, spoon the chicken mixture into fresh lettuce leaves. This adds a crunchy texture and is perfect for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Accompanied by Stir-Fried Noodles

• Pair your Black Pepper Chicken with stir-fried noodles tossed in soy sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor and making it a fulfilling dish.

As Part of a Larger Feast

• Serve it alongside other dishes like spring rolls or dumplings for a delightful Asian-inspired feast that your guests will love.

With Fresh Salad

• A refreshing side salad dressed with sesame oil can balance out the richness of the chicken, making for a well-rounded meal.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

To achieve restaurant-quality Black Pepper Chicken at home, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes or more enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic provide a potent aroma and taste, elevating your dish significantly.
• Control Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that the chicken gets perfectly seared without being overcooked.
• Thicken Your Sauce: Make sure the sauce thickens enough to coat the chicken evenly for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to prevent steaming, which can make it rubbery instead of tender.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your dish right after cooking to keep the chicken juicy and the vegetables crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Complement your Black Pepper Chicken with these delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors and textures.

1. Fried Rice
   A classic choice, fried rice mixed with peas and carrots pairs wonderfully with Black Pepper Chicken.

2. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   Quick-cooked seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition, making your meal more vibrant.

3. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad dressed with vinegar brings freshness and crunch to your plate.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli provides a nutritious option that balances out the richness of the chicken.

5. Quinoa Pilaf
   Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs offers a nutty flavor that complements the spicy notes in the dish.

6. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread can be an unexpected but delightful pairing, perfect for mopping up extra sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to less flavor. Always take the time to marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too much chicken at once, it will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches for a better texture.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale spices or old vegetables can dull the dish’s flavor. Always use fresh black pepper and crisp veggies for the best results.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If you don’t stir the sauce enough, cornstarch may not dissolve properly. Make sure to mix thoroughly for a smooth sauce.
• Cooking on too high heat: Cooking at excessively high temperatures can burn the chicken. Use medium-high heat for even cooking without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth in a skillet over medium heat, then reheat while stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Black Pepper Chicken.

Can I use beef instead of chicken?

Yes, you can easily substitute beef for chicken in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

You can make this dish gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and dry apple juice instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar.

What vegetables go well with Black Pepper Chicken?

Bell peppers, onions, and broccoli are great options! Feel free to mix in your favorites.

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?

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

Final Thoughts

Black Pepper Chicken is a delicious and versatile main dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your liking. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to impress!