Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful, aromatic stir-fry that features tender chicken pieces cooked with vegetables and a rich, savory sauce. This dish offers the perfect balance of heat from the black pepper and sweetness from the sugar, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Paired with steamed rice, it’s a quick and easy dish that will surely impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Directions

1. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, and 1 tbsp black pepper. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté the sliced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
4. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch to the pan. Stir well to ensure the sauce coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
6. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers to the sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or broccoli to enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
   Yes, chicken thighs work well and will result in a juicier dish.
2. Can I use another type of sauce instead of oyster sauce?
   You could use a vegetarian oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for a slightly different flavor.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
   The recipe is not gluten-free due to the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Use gluten-free alternatives to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the sauce mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day.
5. What kind of chicken is best for stir-frying?
   Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs are ideal for stir-frying due to their quick cooking time and tenderness.
6. Can I make this dish spicier?
   Yes, you can add more black pepper or incorporate fresh chili peppers for extra heat.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
   While freezing is possible, the texture of the vegetables may not hold up well after freezing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
8. What can I serve this with besides rice?
   This dish can also be served with noodles or quinoa for a different grain option.
9. How do I thicken the sauce if it doesn’t thicken enough?
   You can add a little more cornstarch (dissolved in water) and cook for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce.
10. Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?
    If you’re looking to avoid soy, you can try coconut aminos or tamari sauce as substitutes.

Conclusion

Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout meal for guests. With a balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, it pairs perfectly with rice and offers a satisfying, flavorful meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Print