Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Are you craving a savory, spicy, and aromatic dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor? This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is exactly what you need! With tender pieces of chicken stir-fried to perfection and coated in a rich, peppery sauce, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that pairs well with steamed rice or noodles, this recipe hits the spot. Read on to discover the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making the best black pepper chicken.

this Recipe

What Is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black pepper chicken is a classic dish found in many Asian cuisines, especially in Chinese and Indian cooking. It's a stir-fry made with bite-sized chicken pieces that are coated in a rich, dark sauce flavored with soy sauce, onions, garlic, and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. The dish is known for its deep, savory flavor and its kick of spice from the black pepper, which gives it a unique, robust heat. It's incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients List for Black Pepper Chicken

Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients you’ll need. Here's what goes into making this delicious black pepper chicken:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoon cornstarch (for coating the chicken)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (to marinate the chicken)
• 1 tablespoon oil (for stir-frying)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Black Pepper Sauce:

• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (green or red)
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoon soy sauce (use light soy sauce for a less salty flavor)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
• ¼ cup water or chicken broth (to adjust sauce consistency)

For Garnishing:

• 1 green onion, chopped (optional)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

If you don't have certain ingredients on hand, no worries! Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can make to the recipe:

• Chicken: You can replace chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier bite. If you're avoiding chicken, try using turkey, pork, or tofu as a substitute.
• Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce, or try coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
• Oyster Sauce: If you’re vegan or vegetarian, replace oyster sauce with mushroom sauce or simply add a little more soy sauce for extra umami flavor.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Heat Level: For extra heat, add red chili flakes or fresh chilies to the stir-fry.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the cooking process step-by-step. This recipe is simple and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

How to Cook Black Pepper Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Marinate the Chicken: Start by placing the bite-sized chicken pieces in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Toss the chicken until it's evenly coated. Set it aside to marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce (if using), 1 tablespoon of water or chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir to mix well. Set the sauce aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Stir-fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes, until it's golden brown on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry the vegetables for 2-3 minutes, until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure not to burn the garlic.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared black pepper sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken evenly.
6. Finish with Sesame Oil: For an extra layer of flavor, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and stir well before removing the dish from heat.
7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the black pepper chicken to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward dish like black pepper chicken, there are a few common mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish comes out perfect every time:

• Using Too Much Sauce: Be careful not to drown the chicken in sauce. The sauce should coat the chicken and vegetables but not be too soupy. Use just enough liquid to bring everything together.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can become tough if overcooked. Make sure to stir-fry it just until it’s cooked through and then remove it from the pan before adding it back with the sauce.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly in a hot pan, which can make your dish bitter. Make sure to cook it briefly and at medium heat after the onions and bell peppers have softened.
• Not Using Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Pre-ground pepper won’t deliver the same level of flavor. Always use freshly ground black pepper for that bold, aromatic taste that makes this dish stand out.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving a dish as vibrant as black pepper chicken. Here’s how you can serve it and make it look restaurant-quality.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken:

• Serve the black pepper chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed white rice or brown rice. You can also serve it with fried rice for a heartier meal.
• If you're looking for a lighter option, try serving the chicken with steamed quinoa or alongside stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or spinach.
• Noodles also pair beautifully with black pepper chicken. Toss the stir-fry with some cooked noodles for a quick noodle dish.
• For a low-carb option, serve the chicken with cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps for a fresh, crunchy bite.

Presentation Ideas for Black Pepper Chicken:

• Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful vegetables and glossy chicken pieces.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color.
• Add a few slices of fresh red chili or bell peppers on top to enhance the presentation and add a vibrant contrast.

Black Pepper Chicken Recipe Tips

To ensure your black pepper chicken comes out delicious every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is key to this dish. Don’t skimp on it—use a pepper mill to grind coarse black pepper for the best flavor.
• Marinate the Chicken: Even a quick 10-15 minute marinade helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with more flavor, so don’t skip this step.
• Cut Chicken Evenly: For even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces. This ensures all pieces cook at the same rate and gives you a more professional presentation.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or chicken broth to loosen it. If it’s too thin, cook it for a little longer to reduce and thicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use beef, pork, shrimp, or even tofu as substitutes in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you're using.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of black pepper chicken. Use vegetable broth and omit the oyster sauce, or substitute it with a vegetarian alternative.

How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover black pepper chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I make this dish in advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to stir-fry the dish right before serving to keep the chicken and vegetables fresh and crisp.

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something savory and peppery. With its tender chicken pieces, vibrant vegetables, and bold, peppery sauce, this dish will have your family coming back for seconds. Try it today and elevate your dinner game with this simple, yet incredibly delicious recipe! Don't forget to share it with your friends and family—they’re sure to love it as much as you do!

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