Name: Black Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 500 grams or 1.1 lbs skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes; 2 tablespoons peanut oil; Salt, as required; 2 medium-sized onions, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes; ½ teaspoon minced garlic; ½ teaspoon minced ginger; 1 fresh red or green chili, chopped; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for sauce); 3 tablespoons light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; ½ teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for sauce); 2 tablespoons water or chicken broth

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Introduction to Black Pepper Chicken

Let me tell you, there are days when dinner feels more like a marathon than a stroll in the park. That’s where my beloved Black Pepper Chicken comes to the rescue. This colorful dish is bursting with flavor and can be thrown together in no time. Imagine coming home after a bustling day and having this tasty meal ready to wow your family. It’s not just quick—it’s a delightful way to bring everyone together around the table. If you’re a busy mom or professional, this recipe is your sidekick for weeknight dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Chicken

You’ll adore this Black Pepper Chicken for its simplicity and vibrant taste. In just 35 minutes, you can create a flavorful meal that’ll make your taste buds dance! This dish is perfect for those hectic evenings when time slips away. Plus, it’s customizable for picky eaters—add more veggies or spice it up! Trust me, your family will thank you for this savory delight made with love.

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need for this scrumptious Black Pepper Chicken. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting a delightful dish, so let’s break them down.

Skinless chicken breast: The star of the show! It’s lean, protein-packed, and perfect for stir-frying.
Peanut oil: This oil adds a subtle nutty flavor and ideal frying temperature. You can substitute with vegetable or canola oil if needed.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of all ingredients. Use sparingly and adjust to taste.
Onions: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish. Choose yellow or white for a milder flavor.
Bell peppers: Green bell pepper keeps things colorful and adds that satisfying crunch. Feel free to mix in red or yellow for sweetness!
Minced garlic and ginger: These are the aromatic powerhouses that give the dish a flavorful kick. Fresh is always best!
Chili: Choose between red or green based on your spice preference! It gives the dish that extra zing.
Cornstarch: This is your secret ingredient for crispy chicken. It coats the meat beautifully and helps thicken the sauce.
Freshly ground black pepper: Essential for that peppery warmth; it really centers the dish.
Soy sauce: A combination of light and dark soy sauce adds rich umami flavors. If you’re avoiding gluten, use tamari instead.
Rice vinegar: It’s tangy and adds brightness to the dish, balancing out the flavors—don’t skip it!
Brown sugar: Just a pinch will add sweetness to counter the savory elements.
Toasted sesame oil: A drizzle of this oil at the end elevates the dish with a nutty aroma.
Water or chicken broth: This helps to create a saucy consistency. Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option!

All the precise measurements can be found at the bottom of this article, ready for printing whenever you need them.

How to Make Black Pepper Chicken

Ready to tackle this delicious Black Pepper Chicken? Let’s get started! Follow these easy steps, and soon you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to enjoy.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

First things first, let’s whip up that sauce! In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly ground black pepper, rice vinegar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, and cornstarch.

Stir in the water until everything is well blended. This sauce is where the magic happens, bringing a delightful harmony of flavors to your chicken.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Next up, let’s coat that chicken! Take the bite-sized chicken cubes and place them in a bowl.

Pour about a tablespoon of your prepared sauce over them. Sprinkle in the cornstarch and a pinch of salt.

Mix it well to ensure every piece is coated. This step is crucial; the cornstarch not only adds crispiness but also keeps the chicken juicy while cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to cook! Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of peanut oil.

Once the oil is hot, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning.

Cook until golden on the bottom, then flip them over. Aim for about 5-7 minutes, just until they’re almost cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and repeat until all pieces are browned.

Step 4: Stir-fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, let’s bring life to those veggies! Add the remaining tablespoon of peanut oil and toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped chili.

Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds to awaken those aromas. Then, add in the onion and bell pepper cubes. Stir-fry on high heat for another 2-3 minutes. You want them crisp, vibrant, and oh-so-tempting!

Step 5: Combine and Coat

Everything is coming together beautifully! Reduce the heat to low and give your sauce a whisk. Pour it into the pan with the stir-fried vegetables.

Let it simmer for about 30 seconds to thicken a bit. Now, it’s time to reunite your chicken with the veggies. Toss everything together until the chicken is heated through and coated in that luscious sauce.

Step 6: Final Touch

To finish off your Black Pepper Chicken, turn off the heat and sprinkle with additional freshly ground black pepper. Give it a good stir to mix in that extra kick.

Serve the dish hot and watch your family light up with joy! Pair it with some steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Prep all ingredients ahead of time to streamline your cooking process.
Use a cast iron or non-stick pan for the best browning of chicken.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili based on your preference.
Don’t skip letting the sauce simmer; it enhances the flavors.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor!

Equipment Needed

Large frying pan: A non-stick skillet works wonders for even cooking.
Mixing bowl: Any bowl will do, but I recommend a medium-sized for easy whisking.
Whisk or fork: Grab whatever’s handy to blend your sauce smoothly.
Spatula or tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken and stirring ingredients effortlessly.

Variations of Black Pepper Chicken

Vegetable Delight: Swap the chicken for tofu or your favorite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: Add more chopped chilies or a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who crave an extra spicy bite!
Protein Swap: Use shrimp or beef instead of chicken for a delicious variation. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Nutty Flavor: Toss in some cashews or peanuts during the stir-fry to add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.
Low-Carb Version: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a healthier twist.

Serving Suggestions for Black Pepper Chicken

Serve over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
Pair with stir-fried greens like bok choy or snap peas for a colorful plate.
A chilled cucumber salad adds a refreshing crunch on the side.
Complement with a light, fruity white wine or sparkling water.

FAQs about Black Pepper Chicken

Got questions about making Black Pepper Chicken? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my tips to help you nail this dish every time.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While fresh chicken is best, you can use frozen chicken as long as you thaw it completely first. This ensures even cooking and tender results!

Can I make Black Pepper Chicken ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them separately. Just assemble and cook when you’re ready for a quick dinner.

Is Black Pepper Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, it can be gluten-free! Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari when making your sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish!

What can I substitute for peanut oil?

If peanut oil isn’t an option, vegetable oil or canola oil works well too. They’ll still give you that lovely sear on your chicken.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the pan for best results, and it’ll taste just as good!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about whipping up a dish like Black Pepper Chicken. It’s not just about filling bellies; it’s about creating memories. From the vibrant colors of the vegetables to the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, this recipe brings everyone together in joy. You’ve got the ease of preparation, the richness of flavor, and the smiles on your family’s faces to delight in. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this dish is your go-to for deliciousness. So grab your ingredients and let the culinary journey begin—your family will love it!