Name: Black Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (divided); 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (divided); 2 tablespoons sesame oil (divided); 1 large green bell pepper (very thinly sliced); 1 cup thinly sliced celery (sliced on the bias (2-3 ribs)); 1 cup thinly sliced yellow onion (1/2 large onion); 2 teaspoons ginger paste; 1 tablespoon garlic paste (or minced garlic); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons water; 1 teaspoon honey; 1-3 teaspoons pepper (adjust to taste); thinly sliced green onions (optional, for garnish); Cooked white rice (optional, for serving)

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When it comes to weeknight dinners, few dishes deliver quite like Black Pepper Chicken. This recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and it always brings back memories of family gatherings. The moment you walk into a home filled with the aroma of stir-fried chicken and vibrant vegetables, you can’t help but feel at ease. I often find myself preparing this dish after a long day, knowing that it’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce comes together beautifully, creating a wonderful meal that everyone loves.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
40 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Large pan

The Charm of This Black Pepper Chicken

Flavor Explosion

First and foremost, the flavor profile of Black Pepper Chicken is truly remarkable. The balance of the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and freshly cracked black pepper creates a depth of taste that’s both savory and slightly spicy. Each bite is a delightful experience, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.

Quick Preparation

One of the things I adore about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just a little marination time and a quick stir-fry, you’ll have dinner ready in no time. This makes it ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken are simple yet versatile. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Bell peppers, onions, and celery work wonderfully together, but feel free to get creative!

Healthy Balance

This dish also provides a healthy balance of protein and veggies. With the inclusion of chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables, you’re not just indulging in a tasty meal, but also nourishing your body. It’s a win-win!

Perfect for Leftovers

Another reason to love Black Pepper Chicken is that it’s even better the next day. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and it makes for a great lunch option. Simply reheat and enjoy!

Family-Friendly

Lastly, this dish is a hit with the entire family. Kids love the sweet and savory flavors, while adults appreciate the complexity of taste. It’s a great way to introduce your family to new flavors without overwhelming their palates.

Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken

Cooking is all about bringing together ingredients that complement each other, and Black Pepper Chicken does just that. The harmony of flavors from chicken, soy sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a dish that’s satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into the essential components of this beloved dish.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips – The star of the dish, providing protein and heartiness.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps to create a crispy texture when cooked.
3 tablespoons soy sauce, divided – Adds saltiness and umami flavor.
2 tablespoons oyster sauce, divided – Introduces a rich, savory depth.
2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided – Imparts a nutty aroma and flavor.
1 large green bell pepper, very thinly sliced – Adds color and crunch.
1 cup thinly sliced celery – Provides a refreshing crunch.
1 cup thinly sliced yellow onion – Offers sweetness and depth.
2 teaspoons ginger paste – Adds a warm, spicy note.
1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic – Essential for flavor enhancement.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Balances the flavors with acidity.
2 tablespoons water – Helps to adjust the sauce consistency.
1 teaspoon honey – Adds a touch of sweetness.
1-3 teaspoons pepper, adjust to taste – Provides the signature kick.
Thinly sliced green onions, optional, for garnish – Enhances presentation.
Cooked white rice, optional, for serving – A perfect base for the dish.

Step by Step Guide for Black Pepper Chicken

Cooking Black Pepper Chicken is a journey filled with vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas. The steps are straightforward, making it an enjoyable process. Let’s walk through how to prepare this delicious dish.

Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and the cornstarch. This mixture not only flavors the chicken but also helps it achieve a lovely texture when cooked. Allow it to marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes while you prepare the sauce.
Next, prepare your sauce. In a wide-mouth jar, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, the remaining 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, rice vinegar, water, honey, and the black pepper. Shake well to combine all these ingredients into a smooth sauce and set it aside. This will be the flavor powerhouse of your dish.
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; this will help achieve a nice sear. Add the marinated chicken strips to the pan. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re browned and mostly cooked through. You want them to be golden, but not fully cooked, as they will finish cooking later. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once heated, stir in the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. The colors should be vibrant, and the onions should start to turn translucent.
Add the garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir them in and cook for another 30 seconds. Make sure not to burn the garlic; it should become aromatic without browning. The combination of these ingredients fills the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and toss to combine all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll notice the sauce thickening as it coats the chicken and veggies. This is when you want to taste the dish and adjust the pepper or salt according to your preference.
Once everything is cooked through and the sauce is thick, it’s time to serve! Spoon the Black Pepper Chicken over a bed of cooked white rice. If you like, garnish with thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Marination is Key: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor and texture. It’s worth the wait!
Heat Control: Ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh vegetables and ingredients for the best flavor and nutritional value.
Adjust Spice: Feel free to tailor the amount of pepper to suit your spice tolerance.

Expert Tips about Black Pepper Chicken

Making Black Pepper Chicken can be a breeze, especially with a few expert tips up your sleeve. Here’s how to elevate your dish even further:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze the dish in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a light salad on the side for a complete meal.
Make It Spicy: If you love heat, add sliced fresh chilies or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
Meal Prep: Consider prepping the chicken and vegetables in advance to make weeknight cooking even quicker.
Rice Choices: While white rice is a classic pairing, try serving it over brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.

What to Serve Alongside Black Pepper Chicken

When it comes to serving Black Pepper Chicken, there are endless possibilities to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The perfect base that absorbs all the delicious sauce from the chicken.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of broccoli, snap peas, and carrots adds nutrition and crunch.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls with a dipping sauce can complement the flavors and add a fun element to your meal.
Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, lunch boxes, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

FAQ

Pairing Black Pepper Chicken with side dishes can elevate the meal. Consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Fresh stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas, provide a nice crunch and additional nutrients. If you’re looking for something light, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken. For those who love appetizers, crispy spring rolls with a dipping sauce make a delightful accompaniment. All these options make for a well-rounded, satisfying dinner.

Black Pepper Chicken has a kick from the freshly cracked black pepper, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. The level of heat can be adjusted to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use less black pepper or even omit it if you want to keep it entirely mild. On the other hand, if you enjoy more heat, feel free to add extra black pepper or even fresh chilies. This recipe is very versatile, allowing you to customize the spice level to suit your palate.

Absolutely! While Black Pepper Chicken traditionally uses chicken, you can easily substitute it with other proteins. Try using shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish. Just be mindful of cooking times, as they can vary. For example, shrimp cooks much faster than chicken, while beef may need a bit longer to become tender. Adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked through and remains juicy.

Storing leftovers of Black Pepper Chicken is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for 3 to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or on the stove. If you have a larger batch, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When freezing, use a sealed container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

In summary, Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with a hint of spice, making it a favorite for many. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to impress and satisfy your cravings.