Black Pepper Chicken

Introduction

There is something inherently comforting about a well-cooked chicken dish. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, it can evoke feelings of warmth and satisfaction at the table. Black Pepper Chicken stands out as a simple yet incredibly flavorful meal that can easily become a favorite in your household. This dish is not just about the heat of black pepper; it showcases the natural taste of the chicken combined with aromatic ingredients. You’ll find that it is both easy to prepare and delightful to eat, making it perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family night in.

Why Make This Recipe

Deciding to make Black Pepper Chicken can be one of the best culinary choices in your cooking journey. Firstly, this dish is quite flexible and allows you to personalize it according to your tastes. Some may love the heat, while others might prefer a milder version. By adjusting the amount of black pepper, you can create a dish that matches your family’s palate.

This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. This ease of preparation is paired with a vibrant color palette from bell peppers and onions, which makes it visually appealing as well. Moreover, the cooking process is quick, meaning you can have a homemade meal ready in just about half an hour. Busy weeknights won’t feel as stressful knowing that you can whip up something delicious and nutritious in a short amount of time.

There’s also a sense of satisfaction that comes from preparing your meal from scratch. Cheaper than takeout and infinitely better when homemade, this Black Pepper Chicken ensures you know exactly what’s going into your food. Imagine the flavors mingling together as they cook; the aroma wafts through your kitchen, luring everyone to the dinner table.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Preparing Black Pepper Chicken is straightforward, even for those new to cooking. Let’s break it down step-by-step, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

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 wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
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
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)

Directions:

Begin by combining the chicken pieces with the light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes to enhance the flavor.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients, including chicken broth, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, cornstarch, sugar, coarsely ground black pepper, and salt. Ensure everything is well combined and set it aside.
Now, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Spread it out in a single layer for even cooking. Let it sear for around 1 minute until the bottom becomes lightly browned.
Carefully flip the chicken pieces and continue to cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir occasionally until both sides are browned but still slightly pink inside. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Then, toss in the minced ginger and garlic. Stir quickly until they become fragrant and aromatic.
Add the chopped white onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir and cook them for about 20 seconds until they soften a bit.
Give your sauce mixture a final stir to ensure that the cornstarch is fully dissolved, and then pour it into the skillet. Stir with a spatula immediately, cooking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This should only take a few seconds.
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring a few times to ensure everything gets coated in the delicious sauce. Turn off the heat and remove the skillet from the stovetop. To prevent any further cooking, transfer everything to a large plate immediately.
Serve hot as a main dish and enjoy the rich flavors and aromas that this recipe offers.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

When it comes to serving Black Pepper Chicken, simplicity is key. You can serve it over a bed of steamed rice—jasmine or basmati works wonderfully. The fluffy rice perfectly absorbs the sauce, providing a neutral base to balance the strong flavors of the chicken.

For an added touch, consider garnishing with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro to lend a burst of color and freshness to the dish. The brightness of the herbs can elevate the meal, enhancing both the appearance and taste.

If you are planning a more comprehensive meal, consider pairing it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple green salad. The light crunch of fresh veggies can offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken.

How to Store Black Pepper Chicken

In the event you have leftovers, storing Black Pepper Chicken is very straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. If properly sealed, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For longer storage, you may choose to freeze the chicken. It is advisable to store it in a freezer-safe container. The dish will keep well for about two to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simple reheating in a skillet or microwave will bring it back to its original glory.

Tips to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Adjust Spice Level: If you enjoy a milder flavor, start with less black pepper and add more according to your taste. You can always sprinkle more on after cooking.
Marinate Longer: For more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a couple of hours or even overnight. This helps the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ginger and garlic rather than powders. Fresh ingredients help to elevate the dish’s aroma and taste significantly.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize your vegetable choices. Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas can also work wonderfully in this dish.
Homemade Sauce: If you have the time, preparing your homemade chicken broth can add even more depth to the flavor.

Variation

There are many creative twists you can make with Black Pepper Chicken. Consider adding cashews or almonds for some crunch. You may also include additional vegetables such as snow peas or bamboo shoots to give the dish more texture.

For a different twist, you can try a sweeter version by adding pineapple or bell peppers. The balance between sweet and spicy can create a delightful taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. Cooking from frozen may result in uneven cooking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Black Pepper Chicken stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Prepare a double batch for a quick lunch or dinner option during busy weeks.
Can I make Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily adapt the recipe. Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that your cornstarch is also gluten-free.

With a little patience and practice, this Black Pepper Chicken recipe can quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. The delightful combination of tenderness, flavors, and the undeniable comfort factor makes it a joy to prepare and share. Prepare this dish for your loved ones, and watch as it lights up your dinner table with joy and satisfaction. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

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