Black pepper chicken is a dish that dances on your palate with a delightful zing, where tender chicken meets the warm embrace of aromatic spices. Picture this: succulent pieces of chicken simmering in a savory sauce, each bite bursting with flavor and heat that warms your soul. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Think of the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen as you cook, beckoning everyone to the table like a siren song. There’s something about black pepper chicken that brings back fond memories of laughter and good times shared over delicious food. As my family gathered around the dinner table, the chatter mixed with the tantalizing scent of this dish, creating moments I’ll cherish forever.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This black pepper chicken is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor that will make your taste buds sing
- The stunning visual appeal makes it a centerpiece on any dinner table
- Versatile enough for weeknight meals or special occasions, it’s sure to impress everyone
- Plus, leftovers are even better the next day!
I remember the first time I made black pepper chicken; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it and asked for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts works well; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
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Fresh Garlic: Select firm cloves for maximum flavor; you can never have too much garlic!
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Black Pepper: Freshly ground gives you the best heat; don’t skimp here, it’s called black pepper chicken for a reason.
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Soy Sauce: Go for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control how salty the dish ends up.
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Cornstarch: Essential for achieving that lovely glossy sauce; it thickens everything just right.
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Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors for visual appeal and sweetness; they add crunch and nutrition.
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Green Onions: These add freshness and brightness; plus, they look fancy on top!
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Sesame Oil: A little drizzle elevates flavors with its nutty aroma; it’s worth having in your kitchen.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. This step saves time and ensures you won’t be running around looking for that elusive spice halfway through cooking.
Prepare the Chicken
Dice your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to kick off those bold flavors.
Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add some oil and wait until it’s shimmering. Toss in your seasoned chicken, cooking until golden brown and no longer pink—about 5-7 minutes should do.
Sauté the Aromatics
Remove the chicken from the pan (but don’t worry—it’ll return). In the same skillet, throw in minced garlic and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until fragrant and colorful—around 2-3 minutes will wake up those aromas!
Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch mixed with water, and sesame oil until smooth. Pour this mixture into your skillet along with the cooked chicken and stir well. Watch as everything transforms into a silky sauce coating every piece.
Finish with Green Onions
Once everything is bubbling away nicely, toss in sliced green onions for an extra hit of freshness right before serving. This final touch really brightens up the whole dish!
Now you’re ready to serve up this delectable black pepper chicken! Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds (or thirds). Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Black pepper chicken is not just a dish; it’s a flavor-packed adventure!
- This recipe balances heat and savory goodness, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner
- Its aromatic spices and vibrant colors will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in black pepper and soy sauce. Sear it until golden brown, then add vegetables and cook until tender. This sequence ensures your chicken is juicy and flavorful.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for different textures. Adding fresh ginger or garlic can enhance the aroma, making every bite delightful.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover black pepper chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain its juicy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for a bolder flavor that elevates your dish significantly
- Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors soak in deeply
- Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender and juicy, ensuring it remains delicious
Cooking black pepper chicken reminds me of that time I tried impressing my friends with my culinary skills. They were skeptical but ended up polishing off two plates each!
FAQ
What can I serve with black pepper chicken?
Black pepper chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add more black pepper or some chili flakes to kick up the heat.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Ensure there are no pink juices and that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Black Pepper Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Black pepper chicken is a tantalizing dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of aromatic spices, delivering a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, ensuring that your family and guests will be impressed. The rich aromas wafting through your kitchen will beckon everyone to the table, creating memorable moments around shared meals.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup bell peppers, sliced (mixed colors)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and bell peppers until fragrant (2-3 minutes).
- Whisk together soy sauce, cornstarch mixed with water, and sesame oil. Pour into the skillet with chicken; stir to combine.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken. Add green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added spice, incorporate chili flakes or extra black pepper. Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for different textures. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor.