Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken is a classic dish loved for its bold, savory flavor with a peppery kick. This Asian-inspired recipe balances tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and an aromatic black pepper sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. Moreover, this recipe is simple yet delicious. Not only is it easy to make, but it can also be customized to suit your spice tolerance, making it a versatile favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked for better flavor)
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or peanut oil)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 teaspoons water for slurry)

Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1-2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small carrot, julienned

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Begin by mixing soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper in a bowl.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes. For deeper flavor, let it rest for 30 minutes to an hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a separate small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and chicken broth.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely and set the mixture aside for later use. Having the sauce ready ahead ensures smooth cooking.

3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Place the marinated chicken pieces in the pan in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side. This will lock in the juices and create a golden crust.
3. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

4: Stir-fry the Vegetables

1. Add a little more oil to the same pan if needed.
2. Stir-fry the garlic and ginger first until aromatic, which should take about 30 seconds.
3. Next, toss in the onions and cook until slightly translucent.
4. Add the bell peppers (and other vegetables, if using) and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. The vegetables should remain crisp but cooked.

5: Combine Everything

1. Return the chicken to the pan along with the stir-fried vegetables.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
3. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir the dish until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Variations

• Spicier Version: For extra heat, add red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the oyster sauce slightly.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based variation.
• Different Vegetables: Try adding broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini to diversify the dish.
• Sweet and Savory: Include a tablespoon of honey in the sauce for a hint of sweetness.

Cooking Notes

• Marination Time: Ideally, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
• Pepper Preference: Freshly cracked black pepper offers the best flavor. Avoid using pre-ground pepper for this recipe.
• Wok vs. Skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying due to its even heat distribution, but a large skillet works as well.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice to complement the savory sauce.
• Pair with stir-fried noodles or lo mein for a complete meal.
• Add a side of spring rolls or dumplings to elevate the dining experience.

Tips

1. Uniform Cuts: Ensure the chicken is cut into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
2. High Heat Stir-Fry: Use high heat to sear the chicken and vegetables quickly without overcooking.
3. Prep in Advance: Chop all ingredients and prepare the sauce before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.
4. Customize Thickness: Adjust the cornstarch slurry to control the sauce’s thickness. Start with less and add more as needed.

Prep Time:

20 minutes (including marination)

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~250-300
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: ~800mg (varies depending on soy sauce used)
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs About Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast is a good alternative, but it tends to be drier. To avoid this, reduce the cooking time slightly.

2. What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can substitute it with hoisin sauce or additional soy sauce combined with a pinch of sugar. Mushroom soy sauce is also a great vegetarian option.

3. Can this dish be made ahead?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Cook just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

5. Can this dish be frozen?
It is not ideal to freeze because the vegetables may lose their texture. However, the chicken and sauce can be frozen separately and reheated with fresh vegetables.

Conclusion Of Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that combines bold flavors and tender textures. The balance of peppery heat and savory sauce creates a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Furthermore, its versatility allows for various customizations, making it perfect for different preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or serving guests, this dish never fails to impress. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and savor the simplicity of preparing restaurant-quality food at home.