Black Pepper Chicken

An easy black pepper chicken recipe that brings the bold flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout right to your kitchen! This dish features juicy, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich savory black pepper sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this meal can be ready in just 25 minutes. Plus, it’s adaptable for gluten-free diets!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The savory black pepper sauce elevates the chicken and veggies, delivering a taste sensation.
• Versatile: You can customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer.
• Healthier Option: Enjoy a homemade meal that’s lighter than takeout without sacrificing flavor.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily modify this recipe to fit gluten-free diets by using tamari.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious black pepper chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ensures even cooking and allows you to sear the chicken properly for that perfect texture.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping and stirring ingredients without breaking them apart.
• Medium-sized bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken to enhance its flavor before cooking.

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 sherry instead of Shaoxing wine.

For the Chicken

• 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 wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (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

For Cooking

• 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 wine, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Gently mix by hand until the chicken is coated with a thin layer of the mixture. Marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. 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. Spread it into a single layer using a spatula with as little overlap as possible. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute or until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-fry Vegetables

Add another 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 Sauce with Chicken

Stir the prepared sauce mixture until cornstarch is dissolved completely. Pour it into the skillet with vegetables. Stir immediately with a spatula until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—this takes just a few seconds. Add back in the cooked chicken and quickly stir everything together so all ingredients are evenly coated with sauce.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Turn off heat and remove from stove. Immediately transfer everything to a big plate so that ingredients won’t continue cooking in the hot skillet. Serve hot as a main dish!

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. It’s versatile enough to be served on its own or paired with other dishes for a complete meal.

Family Style

• Serve the Black Pepper Chicken in a large serving dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a communal atmosphere that is perfect for family dinners.

With Steamed Rice

• Pair the chicken with fluffy steamed rice. The rice will soak up the rich black pepper sauce, making each bite even more delicious.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a refreshing crunch and is perfect for those looking for a low-carb meal.

Over Noodles

• Serve Black Pepper Chicken over noodles, such as chow mein or rice noodles. The noodles will add substance and make the dish more filling.

As Part of a Stir-fry Platter

• Include Black Pepper Chicken as part of a larger stir-fry platter with other protein options and vegetables. This makes for an exciting and colorful meal that caters to various tastes.

How to Perfect Black Pepper Chicken

Perfecting your Black Pepper Chicken can elevate this already delicious dish. Here are some helpful tips to ensure success every time you make it.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic enhance the flavor significantly, providing depth to your sauce.
• Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes ensures it absorbs all the flavors from the soy sauce and Shaoxing wine.
• Control Heat: Cook on medium-high heat for optimal searing without overcooking the chicken. This keeps it juicy and tender.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Sear chicken pieces in batches if necessary. This prevents steaming and allows for better browning.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency before serving.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Consider garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds to add visual appeal and extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Black Pepper Chicken

To create a satisfying meal around your Black Pepper Chicken, consider these delicious side dishes. They complement the flavors perfectly while adding variety to your dinner table.

1. Fried Rice: A classic pairing, fried rice adds texture and additional flavors that complement the black pepper sauce beautifully.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a vibrant color contrast while balancing out the richness of the chicken.
3. Garlic Naan: Soft, buttery naan is perfect for scooping up leftover sauce from your plate, enhancing every bite.
4. Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers offer a delightful contrast in texture alongside the tender chicken.
5. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and balances out the heat from black pepper.
6. Sesame Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed in sesame oil provide an earthy flavor that pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy option that fills you up without overpowering the main dish.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting starter that prepares your palate for flavorful entrees like Black Pepper Chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making black pepper chicken can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Make sure to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking too long can lead to dry chicken. Cook just until browned and slightly pink inside before setting aside.
• Ignoring the vegetable crunch: Overcooking vegetables makes them soggy. Stir-fry them quickly to maintain their crisp texture.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preference before serving.
• Using the wrong oil: Not all oils are suitable for high-heat cooking. Choose peanut or vegetable oil for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover black pepper chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Black Pepper Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Black Pepper Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chicken in a dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a bit of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat; stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re new to making black pepper chicken, you might have some questions. Here are answers to common inquiries.

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black pepper chicken is a savory stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken coated in a rich black pepper sauce, often served with bell peppers and onions.

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute tamari for soy sauce and dry sherry for Shaoxing wine to make this dish gluten-free.

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?

The spice level mostly depends on how much black pepper you use. For milder flavors, reduce the amount of coarsely ground black pepper in your recipe.

What sides go well with Black Pepper Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed greens for extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Black pepper chicken is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packs incredible flavor that rivals your favorite takeout. Customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Give this delicious recipe a try and enjoy its comforting appeal!