Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

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If you’re craving something that packs a punch of bold flavors while remaining delightfully simple, this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is the perfect answer. Juicy, tender chicken pieces are infused with a fragrant blend of black pepper, savory soy sauces, and a touch of sweetness, creating a harmonious balance that excites every bite. It’s a dish that comes together quickly, requiring just a handful of accessible ingredients, yet tastes like you spent hours crafting it. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from flavor to texture and color. The combination is straightforward but essential, making this dish approachable without sacrificing complexity.

• 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, sliced: Slicing against the grain ensures tender, juicy pieces that absorb flavors beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce: Provides salty, umami depth to the chicken marinade.
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine: Adds subtle richness and enhances the aroma of the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps to tenderize the chicken and create a silky texture when cooked.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base of the sauce, keeping everything moist.
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce: Brings bright salty notes to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine: Deepens the sauce’s flavor complexity.
• 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce: Provides a slightly sweet, caramel color and richer flavor to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used again to thicken the sauce perfectly.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the heat and salt with a touch of sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper: The star of the dish; delivers that unmistakable spicy kick and aromatic warmth.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking and adds a subtle nutty undertone.
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger: Adds fragrant pungency that complements the pepper.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with savory depth and a touch of sweetness when cooked.
• 1/2 white onion, chopped: Adds crunch and a mild sweetness.
• 2 bell peppers, chopped: Provides vibrant color, sweetness, and crunch to balance the sauce.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing the sliced chicken with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch in a bowl. This mix not only flavors the meat but also helps keep it tender and moist while cooking. Be gentle when mixing so every piece is coated evenly.

Step 2: Let the Chicken Rest

Allow the chicken to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes. This brief rest might seem quick, but it’s enough time for the flavorful ingredients to penetrate the chicken, building a robust base for the entire dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Next, whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a bowl. This includes chicken broth, light and dark soy sauces, Shaoxing wine, sugar, cornstarch, black pepper, and salt. Mixing it ahead saves time and ensures the flavors meld together smoothly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of peanut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Spread the marinated chicken into a single layer and sear it without crowding the pan. After 30 seconds, flip the pieces and cook for another 15 to 20 seconds until you see a light golden-brown crust. This quick searing locks in the juices while creating incredible texture.

Step 5: Remove Chicken to Plate

Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest. This step prevents overcooking and allows the pan to be ready for the vegetables and sauce.

Step 6: Stir Fry the Aromatics and Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of peanut oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced ginger and garlic, stirring constantly until their fragrance fills your kitchen. Then, add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking just about 20 seconds to soften them slightly but retain their freshness and crunch.

Step 7: Combine Sauce and Chicken

Give the sauce a quick stir to dissolve the cornstarch fully before pouring it into the skillet. Cook it down until the sauce thickens into a luscious glaze that clings to the vegetables. Finally, return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together until every piece gleams with the rich, peppery sauce.

Step 8: Serve It Up Hot

Turn off the heat and plate your Black Pepper Chicken while it’s still steaming. This dish tastes best fresh and vibrant, straight off the stove.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

For an added burst of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh cilantro over the top. A few extra cracks of black pepper can amplify the signature peppery zing. If you love a bit of heat, tiny slivers of fresh chili add an exciting kick that pairs beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Black Pepper Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or simply serve alongside stir-fried greens like bok choy or spinach for an extra nutrient boost.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken over a bed of crispy noodles or in lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld bite. Serving it family-style allows everyone to enjoy the sizzling aroma and invite conversation around the table. A small bowl of pickled vegetables on the side can add an exciting tangy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Black Pepper Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may deepen overnight, making your next serving even more intense and savory.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, this dish freezes nicely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember that the texture of the bell peppers might soften a bit after freezing, but the chicken and sauce remain delicious.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the chicken’s tenderness and keep the sauce from drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help revive the sauce to its original saucy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a fantastic choice because they stay juicier and more flavorful. Just slice them thinly as you would the breasts for even cooking.

What spice level should I expect from this dish?

This recipe highlights the warm, aromatic heat of black pepper rather than chili heat. It’s spicy in a subtle, pleasant way that builds flavor without overwhelming your palate.

Is Shaoxing wine necessary, or can it be substituted?

ShaoXing wine lends an authentic depth, but if you don’t have it on hand, dry sherry or a combination of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar can work as a substitute.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To make a vegetarian version, swap chicken for firm tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust cooking time as tofu requires less heat.

What’s the best way to grind black pepper for this recipe?

Coarse grind is ideal to maximize the bold, peppery aroma and texture. You can use a pepper mill or crush peppercorns roughly with a mortar and pestle for more control over the size.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Black Pepper Chicken Recipe enough for anyone who loves a quick, flavorful dish that never feels ordinary. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and perfectly balanced, making it a welcome addition to your recipe repertoire. Give it a try on your next cooking adventure and watch how it becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!

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