What is comfort food? I’m talking about a dish that’s both explosively flavorful and surprisingly simple: Chicken. Is it really that simple? Black pepper chicken. What are some good What is that savory kick that you usually only find in really good takeout? You can whip this up faster than you can say “delivery fee”. Think of it as Kung Pao Chicken’s cooler, spicier cousin – less sweet, way more attitude, and just like a chicken. I swear, the first time I made this, my entire family went silent… then devoured it.
What is black pepper chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken is essentially a stir-fry where juicy, tender chicken pieces are coated in melted butter. What is peppery sauce? What is pepper? What really elevates this dish is the complex dance of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. Imagine crispy chicken, infused with black pepper flavor, all nestled in a savory sauce that’s sure to please. Just begs to be spooned over rice. What is the amount of black pepper?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are a million reasons why this Black Pepper Chicken has become a staple in my house, but let me hit you with the highlights. First, the flavor. Oh my goodness, the *flavor*. It’s an incredible balance of savory, spicy, and just a hint of sweet that will have your tastebuds doing the tango. And honestly, it’s so much more satisfying than ordering takeout because you control exactly what goes in it. No mystery ingredients here! Speaking of control, the heat level is also adjustable – if you like things mild, go easy on the pepper; if you’re a spice fanatic like me, pile it on!
Second, this is one of those weeknight lifesavers that comes together in under 30 minutes. From chopping to serving, you’re looking at a minimal time investment for maximum flavor payoff. Is it also incredibly cost effective? Chicken thighs are usually pretty budget-friendly, and the other ingredients are pantry staples that can easily be found. What do you have on hand? What is the best thing to do when you have a tight budget?
Is it super versatile? Serve it over rice, noodles, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Add veggies to stir-fry for extra nutrients and flavor. Is there an infinite number of possibilities? What I love about this recipe is how adaptable it is to whatever you have on hand, or whatever. What are you craving? Is it similar to General Tso’s Chicken? What are some good leftovers?
How do I make black pepper chicken?
Quick Overview
How do I make Black Pepper Chicken? What are some good ways to marinate chicken, and stir fry it until golden brown. What is the best way to cook black pepper in a sauce? What is the secret to cooking? Have all your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-fries move fast, so organization is key! I promise, even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this recipe. Is it less intimidating than it looks?
Ingredients
What is the recipe for chicken marinade?
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. I prefer thighs because they stay juicy, but chicken breast works too. * 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Use low-sodium to control the salt level. * 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry). What are some of the best ways to make cornstarch? What is the best way to cook chicken? Is it more earthy than black pepper?
What is the recipe for black pepper sauce?
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. * 4 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly chopped is always best! * 1 tablespoon ginger, minced. Again, fresh is key! * 1/4 cup soy sauce. Low-sodium, remember! * 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce. This adds a wonderful umami richness. * 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Light or dark, either works. * 2 tablespoons black pepper, freshly cracked. Don’t skimp on the pepper! This is the star of the show. * 1 cup chicken broth. Low-sodium. * 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry). This will thicken the sauce.
Optional Garnish
* Sliced green onions
* Toasted sesame seeds
What are the steps to
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine (or sherry), cornstarch, and salt. Serve immediately. White pepper, and vegetable oil. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and chicken broth in a small bowl. Set aside. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved for a smooth sauce.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat. Set aside. Add the chicken and stir-fry until it’s cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. How do you burn garlic?
Step 5: Add Sauce and Simmer
Pour the black pepper sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
How do I cook chicken in a skillet? Cook for another minute or two, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is glossy and thick. clinging to the chicken.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Black Pepper Chicken immediately over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
What should I serve it with?
Black Pepper Chicken is incredibly versatile. I love a big bowl of white rice. It soaks up all that delicious sauce! Brown rice or quinoa are also great options for a healthier twist. If you’re looking for something lighter, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside some steamed rice. Is steamed broccoli good for you?
For a complete meal:Add a side of stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and snow peas for extra color and flavor. What are some good ways to serve cucumber salad with chicken?
Appetizers: Start with some crispy spring rolls or potstickers for a truly authentic Chinese-inspired meal.
Drinks: A cold beer or a glass of iced tea are perfect accompaniments to this flavorful dish.
What are some good side dishes to serve with white rice and cucumbers? The coolness and acidity of the cucumbers really cut through the richness of chicken. I sometimes sneak in some extra veggies like sliced bell peppers when my kids aren’t looking. I know it’s gonna be a big deal. Why don’t chickens notice when you eat it? My family loves edamame as a side.
How do I make a perfect black pepper chicken?
What are some of the best ways to make your Black Pepper Chicken shine? What are the little things I’ve learned over countless batches that take it from “good” to “OMG”.
Chicken Quality: Splurge on good-quality chicken thighs. They really do make a difference in terms of flavor and texture. Look for organic, free-range chicken if possible. And don’t be afraid to trim off any excess fat – this will help the chicken brown better.
Freshly Cracked Pepper: WhatHow can I use freshly cracked black pepper? Why does ground pepper have less punch than regular peppers? I keep a pepper grinder by my stove for easy access. The aroma alone is worth it!
High heat is the key to success. Stir-frying requires high heat to create that signature wok hei (smoky, charred flavor). Make sure your skillet or wok is screaming hot before you add the chicken. This will help it brown quickly and prevent it from steaming.
Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re using a smaller skillet, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and result in steamed, not stir-fried, chicken.
Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking:What is the beauty of this recipe? If you like things sweeter, add a little brown sugar. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or chili oil. I sometimes add a splash of rice vinegar for some extra tang.
Cornstarch Slurry: Make sure to mix the cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the sauce. This will prevent it from clumping up and ensure a smooth, glossy sauce. I’ve made the mistake of adding cornstarch directly to the hot sauce before and it was not pretty!
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, or it will become dry and tough. It’s done when it’s cooked through and lightly browned on the outside. It will continue to cook in the sauce, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Black Pepper Chicken is fantastic as leftovers (if there are any!). Here’s how to store and reheat it properly to maintain its deliciousness.
Refrigerator: Store the cooled Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming, which can make it soggy.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Black Pepper Chicken for up to 2-3 months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When freezing, I like to portion it out into individual servings for easy reheating. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: The best way to reheat Black Pepper Chicken is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy. Be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the Black Pepper Chicken, it’s best to add the glaze after reheating rather than before freezing. This will help maintain the glaze’s texture and prevent it from becoming sticky or diluted during the freezing and thawing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Black Pepper Chicken recipe! It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Seriously, it’s one of those recipes that I know I can always count on to be a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s so much healthier and tastier than takeout. If you’re a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine, you might also enjoy my Sesame Chicken recipe or my Spicy Peanut Noodles. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think. And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them!
Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp Black pepper Freshly ground is best
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a bowl, combine black pepper, soy sauce, and honey.
- Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
