Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This dish features juicy, tender chicken paired with crisp vegetables and enveloped in a rich, savory black pepper sauce. In just 25 minutes, you can create a meal that tastes better than your usual takeout. This Black Pepper Chicken is sure to impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful: The combination of black pepper, soy sauce, and fresh ginger gives this dish a unique kick that will delight your taste buds.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out the vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the veggies, it’s a wholesome meal choice.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: With simple ingredient swaps, you can make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Black Pepper Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and enhances your overall experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken and vegetables without overcrowding.
• Medium-sized bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly with flavor.
• Spatula: A good spatula helps to flip and stir ingredients easily, preventing them from sticking to the pan.

Ingredients

• 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
• 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
• 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 all pieces are coated with a thin layer. 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 in a single layer using a spatula. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add minced ginger and garlic; stir quickly until fragrant. Then add chopped onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch is completely dissolved before pouring it into the skillet. Stir immediately while cooking until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon—this takes just a few seconds. Add back cooked chicken and stir several times to ensure everything is evenly coated with sauce.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Turn off heat and remove the skillet from the stove. Quickly transfer everything onto a large plate so that ingredients don’t continue cooking in residual heat. Serve your Black Pepper Chicken hot as a main dish!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Serving Black Pepper Chicken can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that complement its rich flavors.

With Steamed Rice

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

Over Noodles

• Serve the chicken over cooked noodles for a satisfying meal. Egg noodles or rice noodles are great choices.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Add extra crunch and nutrition by serving black pepper chicken alongside stir-fried seasonal vegetables like broccoli and snap peas.

As a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the black pepper chicken for a fun, low-carb alternative.

With Salad

• A refreshing cucumber or mixed green salad can balance the richness of the dish while adding a crunchy texture.

With Pita Bread

• For a unique twist, serve the chicken with warm pita bread, allowing for easy scooping and enjoying of the flavorful sauce.

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, garlic, and vegetables elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Marinate properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate ensures it absorbs all the delicious flavors from the soy sauce and vinegar.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches helps achieve that perfect sear on your chicken without steaming it.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak the amount of black pepper and sugar according to your taste preference for heat and sweetness.
• Thicken sauce well: Make sure to stir continuously until you reach a smooth consistency that coats your chicken perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

Pairing your Black Pepper Chicken with complementary side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice with peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs adds texture and makes for a hearty meal.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables provide a delightful crunch alongside your chicken.
3. Egg Drop Soup: A light egg drop soup warms up the meal while offering a comforting touch.
4. Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles tossed with vegetables make an excellent companion to soak up any leftover sauce.
5. Garlic Bok Choy: Sautéed bok choy with garlic adds vibrant color and health benefits to your plate.
6. Crispy Tofu: For added protein, crispy tofu cubes seasoned lightly can be served on the side for extra texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least 10–15 minutes.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
• Ignoring the sauce thickness: If you don’t cook the sauce long enough, it won’t thicken properly. Stir until it coats the back of a spoon.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality soy sauce or black pepper can diminish flavor. Invest in good quality ingredients for better taste.
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, you might want to reduce the black pepper. Always taste and adjust according to your preferences.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Black Pepper Chicken can be kept for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

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

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15–20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Black Pepper Chicken, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken is a savory stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken pieces seasoned with coarsely ground black pepper and cooked with fresh vegetables.

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce and dry sherry for Shaoxing vinegar.

How do I store leftover Black Pepper Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.

What vegetables work well in Black Pepper Chicken?

Bell peppers and onions are commonly used, but feel free to add other veggies like broccoli or snap peas based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This easy Black Pepper Chicken recipe offers incredible flavor and versatility. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that tastes just like takeout!