Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Introduction and Quick Summary

Have you ever craved a dish that combines bold flavors with a hint of spice? Black Pepper Chicken is that dish! This delightful stir-fry features tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds while delivering an aromatic experience. With every bite, you’ll be met with a perfect balance of heat and umami, making it an instant favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Imagine coming home after a long day and whipping up this quick yet satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. The spicy aroma wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Gather your ingredients and prepare for a flavor explosion that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe allows you to create an impressive meal in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans!
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of black pepper and soy sauce creates a unique flavor profile that is both savory and slightly spicy, appealing to various palates.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 1 pound of chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose about three cloves of fresh garlic; minced garlic adds depth and richness to the dish.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper works best for maximum flavor; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
• Cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce and gives it a glossy finish when cooked.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown nicely when cooked.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chopped chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and freshly ground black pepper. Let it marinate for about ten minutes to absorb all those flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about five to seven minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Step 5: Add Vegetables (optional)

If desired, toss in sliced bell peppers or broccoli at this stage. Stir-fry everything together for another three to four minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra soy sauce if desired for added flavor. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic adds more flavor compared to jarred options; always opt for fresh when possible.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust black pepper according to your preference; feel free to add chili flakes if you enjoy more heat.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld beautifully before serving.

Mistakes to avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: One common mistake when preparing Black Pepper Chicken is overcooking the chicken. This leads to dry, tough meat that lacks flavor. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (75°C) and remove the chicken from heat immediately once it reaches this temperature. Additionally, marinating the chicken beforehand can help keep it moist during cooking.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients can significantly affect the taste of your Black Pepper Chicken. Fresh vegetables and high-quality spices make a big difference in flavor. Ensure you choose fresh garlic, ginger, and vibrant bell peppers for your dish. When it comes to pepper, freshly cracked black peppercorns will offer a much stronger and more aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground alternatives.
• Ignoring Proper Marinade Time: Failing to marinate the chicken long enough can result in bland flavors. For optimal taste, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes—ideally longer if time permits. This allows the spices and sauces to fully penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor profile. A good marinade not only adds taste but also helps tenderize the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This Black Pepper Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice complements the spicy notes of the dish.
• Noodles: Toss some stir-fried noodles for an extra satisfying meal.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add more veggies for a nutritious side dish.

FAQs

What can I substitute for oyster sauce in Black Pepper Chicken?

If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand or prefer a vegetarian option, you can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and sugar as substitutes. These alternatives provide a sweet and savory flavor similar to that of oyster sauce. Keep in mind that while hoisin has a thicker consistency, adjusting it with a bit of water can help achieve a similar texture when added to your Black Pepper Chicken recipe.

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Black Pepper Chicken ahead of time by marinating the chicken and even cooking it in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve it, simply reheat in a skillet until warmed through. This makes it convenient for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Is Black Pepper Chicken spicy?

The spice level of Black Pepper Chicken largely depends on how much black pepper you choose to use. Typically, this dish offers moderate heat due to freshly ground black pepper but can be adjusted according to personal preference. If you enjoy spicier flavors, feel free to increase the amount of black pepper or add chili flakes during cooking.

What sides go well with Black Pepper Chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken pairs well with several sides that enhance its flavors. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice as it absorbs the savory sauces beautifully. Additionally, stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or snap peas add color and nutrition while complementing the dish’s spice profile perfectly.

Conclusion for Black Pepper Chicken

In summary, Black Pepper Chicken is an easy yet flavorful dish that brings warmth and spice to your table. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks looking for a quick meal option. Pairing it with steamed rice or noodles creates a delightful dining experience that everyone will enjoy. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe further by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your palate preferences. Enjoy this tasty dish any night of the week!

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Black Pepper Chicken

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Black Pepper Chicken is a fragrant, savory stir-fry that brings the perfect balance of spice and umami to your table. This quick and easy recipe features tender pieces of boneless chicken marinated in a rich blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and freshly ground black pepper. With vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and onions added for extra color and nutrition, this dish is both satisfying and visually appealing. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, you can have this delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes. Serve it hot over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a delightful dining experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

• Author: Mason Recipes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-fry
• Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and half of the black pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in sliced onion and bell pepper; stir-fry for about 5 minutes until tender yet crisp.
4. Sprinkle remaining black pepper over the dish and mix well. Adjust salt to taste.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - For extra spice, increase the amount of black pepper or add chili flakes. - Substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and sugar for a vegetarian option. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.