Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is a delicious and savory dish that combines tender chicken pieces with the bold and aromatic flavor of freshly ground black pepper. Originating from Asian cuisines, this recipe is popular for its rich, slightly spicy taste and versatility. Whether served with rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish, Black Pepper Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

This recipe is simple to follow and uses readily available ingredients, making it a great option for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish.

Ingredients:

1.For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

2.For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¼ cup chicken stock or water
• 1 tsp cornstarch (to thicken)

3.For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 2-3 spring onions, chopped
• 1-2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

Preparation Of Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and ground black pepper. Mix well to coat evenly.
2. Cover and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator. For better flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.

 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, chicken stock, and cornstarch.
2. Set aside this sauce mixture for later use.

 3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

1. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Add the marinated chicken to the wok. Stir-fry until the chicken pieces are golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.

5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper.
2. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

 6: Combine Everything

1. Return the chicken to the wok and pour the prepared sauce over it.
2. Add the freshly ground black pepper and stir everything together until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.

 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Add the chopped spring onions and give it a final toss.
2. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or a mix of mushrooms.
• Spicier Version: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sliced red chilies for extra heat.
• Different Proteins: Use shrimp, beef, or pork instead of chicken for a new twist.
• Extra Vegetables: Include broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

Cooking Notes:

• Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
• Adjust the amount of black pepper based on your spice tolerance.
• Avoid overcrowding the wok to ensure even cooking.
• Dark soy sauce is optional but adds a deep color to the dish.

Serving Suggestions For Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

• Serve Black Pepper Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice.
• Pair it with garlic noodles or fried rice for a complete meal.
• Add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.

Tips:

1. Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor.
3. Use a high-heat oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for stir-frying.
4. Keep all ingredients prepped and ready as stir-frying happens quickly.
5. Use a heavy-bottomed wok or skillet for the best results.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs About Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Q1: Can I use pre-ground black pepper?

While pre-ground black pepper works, freshly ground black pepper delivers a more robust and aromatic flavor.

Q2: How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure all other sauces are gluten-free.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Black Pepper Chicken is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance to save time.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best results.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Its blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and bold black pepper sauce is irresistible. With customizable variations, it’s a versatile recipe that suits a variety of dietary preferences and occasions. Enjoy this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home and savor every bite!

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