Name: Black Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
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

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Introduction to Black Pepper Chicken

Let’s be real: some days I’m just too busy to whip up an elaborate meal. That’s where my favorite recipe for Black Pepper Chicken comes in, ready to save the day! This dish is a delightful stir-fry that’s quick to make yet bursting with flavor, making it perfect for a hectic weeknight dinner. I love how it combines tender chicken with a savory black pepper sauce and colorful veggies, all in just 25 minutes! Trust me, after one taste, you’ll be adding this textural beauty to your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken

This Black Pepper Chicken is not just an ordinary stir-fry; it’s a culinary hug for your busy days. Fresh ingredients come together in a snap, making it a lifesaver when time is short. The vibrant flavors will have your taste buds singing! Plus, the combination of tender chicken and vegetables means it’s not just tasty, but wholesome, too. Who wouldn’t love a dish that pleases both your palate and your hectic schedule?

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

Before we dive into cooking, let’s assemble our ingredients for this fabulous Black Pepper Chicken. Each component plays a role in creating the delightful flavors we crave. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breasts or thighs: I prefer chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work just as well. Slice them against the grain for tenderness.
Soy sauce: Light soy sauce adds savory depth. You can substitute it with low-sodium soy if you’re watching your intake.
Shaoxing wine: A delightful Chinese cooking wine that enhances flavor. If you can’t find it, dry sherry makes a suitable swap.
Cornstarch: This helps tenderize the chicken and create that wonderful gloss in our sauce.
Chicken broth: You’ll want a good quality broth for the sauce, adding richness. Homemade or store-bought both work.
Sugar: Just a tablespoon adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory notes perfectly.
Coarsely ground black pepper: The star of our dish! Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors; just don’t oversalt, especially if using soy sauce.
Peanut oil or vegetable oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point, perfect for stir-frying. But feel free to substitute with vegetable oil of your choice.
Ginger and garlic: Freshly minced ginger and garlic give a fragrant kick that truly elevates this dish.
White onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and texture, but you can also use green onions for a milder flavor.
Bell peppers: I love using a mix of colored bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness. Feel free to swap them out for your favorite veggies!

All these ingredients elevate your Black Pepper Chicken to a culinary experience. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can print the recipe easily!

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this flavor-packed dish to life! Follow these simple steps to make your Black Pepper Chicken shine on the dinner table. I promise, it’s easier than it sounds!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your sliced chicken in a medium-sized bowl. Add one tablespoon of light soy sauce, one tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, and one tablespoon of cornstarch.

Gently mix everything by hand until each piece of chicken is coated. This marinade works its magic by adding flavor and tenderness. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate small bowl, whisk together your sauce ingredients: chicken broth, two tablespoons of light soy sauce, two tablespoons of Shaoxing wine, two teaspoons of dark soy sauce, one and a half tablespoons of sugar, two teaspoons of coarsely ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt.

Make sure the cornstarch dissolves completely as this will help thicken your sauce later on. Set the bowl aside; it’s going to be the flavorful boost this dish deserves!

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Next, heat one tablespoon of peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer, spreading it out so it can sear nicely.

Let it cook for about a minute until the bottom gets a lovely golden brown color. Flip the chicken and give it another 30 seconds to a minute, just until both sides are browned but slightly pink in the center.

Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. We’re building the flavors here!

Step 4: Stir-fry the Vegetables

With the chicken resting, it’s time to stir-fry the veggies. In the same skillet, drizzle in another tablespoon of oil. Add minced ginger and garlic first, stirring for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant.

Then toss in your chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook them for a quick 20 seconds, just until they start to soften. This colorful mix will add brightness to your dish!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now, it’s time to make magic happen! Stir the sauce mixture again to ensure it’s well-blended, then pour it into the skillet with the vegetables.

Cook and stir with a spatula 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 and mix everything well.

Let those flavors get cozy together!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well combined and heated through, turn off the heat and carefully transfer everything to a large plate. This quick move prevents further cooking, keeping your chicken juicy and tender.

Serve your Black Pepper Chicken hot with a side of steamed rice or noodles. Trust me, a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of sesame seeds on top makes it look even more inviting!

Tips for Success

Keep your chicken pieces uniform for even cooking and tenderness.
Don’t skip marinating; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
Adjust black pepper to suit your family’s spice tolerance.
Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best aroma and taste.
Prep all ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
A wok can enhance the stir-frying experience, but any large skillet works.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet or wok: A wok is ideal for stir-frying, but a large skillet will do just fine.
Cutting board: Essential for slicing your chicken and veggies.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes prep quick and easy.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need a medium bowl for marinating and a small one for the sauce.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps to mix everything effortlessly.

Variations of Black Pepper Chicken

Vegetable Medley: Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian take. Load up on seasonal vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a spoonful of chili paste for those who crave heat. This will take your Black Pepper Chicken to a whole new level!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro towards the end of cooking for an aromatic boost. These herbs add a refreshing twist!
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free while keeping the delicious flavors intact!
Customize the Sauce: Experiment with adding a splash of hoisin sauce or sesame oil for a different umami flavor in your sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Black Pepper Chicken

Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy steamed jasmine or brown rice soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
Noodles: Serve over rice noodles or soba for a delightful twist.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions for a pop of color and freshness.
Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a medium-bodied white wine or jasmine tea for a refreshing complement!

FAQs about Black Pepper Chicken

What can I substitute for Shaoxing wine?
If you can’t find Shaoxing wine, dry sherry works well as a substitute. You can also use white wine or genuine rice vinegar in a pinch, but the flavor may be slightly different.

Can I add more vegetables to this Black Pepper Chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stir-fry with your favorite vegetables. Snow peas, broccoli, or even sliced carrots make excellent additions and enhance the dish’s color.

How spicy is Black Pepper Chicken?
The dish can be as spicy or as mild as you prefer. Coarsely ground black pepper is the star here, so adjusting the amount allows you to control the heat level. Taste as you go, and have fun with it!

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time. Just keep everything separate in the refrigerator and stir-fry it when you’re ready to enjoy a quick meal. That way, dinner is ready in a flash!

What should I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside a light cucumber salad to balance out the flavors. Don’t forget to top it with fresh herbs for that extra oomph!

Final Thoughts

In just 25 minutes, this Black Pepper Chicken transforms a busy weeknight into a flavorful affair that your family will rave about. I love how the savory black pepper sauce and tender chicken blend seamlessly with crunchy veggies, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newcomer to the kitchen, this recipe is a delightful adventure waiting to happen. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into the delightful world of stir-fry. You’ll not only savor every bite but cherish the time spent creating something special at home!