Black Pepper Chicken Recipe

Black pepper chicken is a savory, aromatic, and flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken pieces with the bold spice of black pepper, garlic, and soy sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, as it’s simple to make and pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s full of depth and complexity. Follow this step-by-step guide to making a mouthwatering black pepper chicken that is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive in!

What is Black Pepper Chicken?

Black pepper chicken is a popular stir-fried dish that highlights the pungent, earthy flavor of freshly ground black pepper. It usually features tender pieces of chicken, stir-fried with a savory sauce made of soy sauce, garlic, onions, and bell peppers. The key to this dish is the generous use of black pepper, which gives the dish a slightly spicy kick without overpowering the other ingredients. This dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine, but you can easily recreate it at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients List for Black Pepper Chicken

To make black pepper chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for coating the chicken)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (green, red, or yellow), sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients List for Black Pepper Sauce

The sauce is the heart of this recipe, and it’s both simple and packed with flavor. You will need:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon water or chicken broth (to thin the sauce if needed)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the flavors)

Substitutions and Variations

This black pepper chicken recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some options for substitutions and variations:

1. Chicken: If you prefer a different protein, this recipe works well with beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Shrimp can also be used for a seafood variation.
2. Vegetables: While bell peppers and onions are classic in black pepper chicken, you can add or substitute other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking.
3. Soy Sauce Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos in place of regular soy sauce. You can also reduce the sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce.
4. Spice Level: If you like your dish spicier, increase the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
5. Ginger and Garlic: Both ginger and garlic are essential for the flavor of this dish, but if you’re out of fresh ingredients, you can use powdered garlic and ginger. However, fresh will always give the best flavor.
6. Sweetness: If you enjoy a hint of sweetness in your dish, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to the sauce for balance. It will complement the spicy black pepper and create a more rounded flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the cooking process. Follow these simple steps to prepare your black pepper chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Black Pepper Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, water (or chicken broth), and black pepper. Stir well and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften but still have a bit of crunch.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the black pepper sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the chicken is well coated, turn off the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

How to Cook Black Pepper Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Marinate the Chicken: Coat chicken in soy sauce and cornstarch.
• Prepare the Sauce: Mix soy sauce, black pepper, vinegar, and other sauce ingredients.
• Cook the Chicken: Stir-fry until golden and cooked through.
• Sauté Vegetables: Stir-fry onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger.
• Combine and Cook: Add the chicken back to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Let it thicken and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan: When stir-frying, make sure the chicken pieces are in a single layer to avoid steaming instead of searing. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
2. Under-seasoning: Black pepper chicken relies heavily on the seasoning, so don’t be shy with the black pepper. Freshly ground black pepper gives the best flavor and heat.
3. Overcooking the Vegetables: For the best texture, cook the vegetables just until they’re tender-crisp. Overcooked vegetables can become mushy and lose their flavor.
4. Skipping the Marinade: Even a quick marinade helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor. Don’t skip this step if you want juicy, flavorful chicken.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Black pepper chicken is a hearty dish that pairs well with simple sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to make it a complete meal:

• Serve with Rice: Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is a classic pairing. The rice helps soak up the savory sauce and balances out the bold flavors.
• Noodles: Serve the chicken over stir-fried noodles for a different texture and heartier meal.
• Vegetable Sides: Pair the dish with sautéed greens, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables for a healthy and balanced meal.
• Garnishes: Top the dish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.

How to Serve Black Pepper Chicken

Black pepper chicken is best served hot, directly from the skillet. It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. To create a balanced meal, serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh green salad. You can also serve this dish family-style, with a big bowl of rice in the center of the table and the black pepper chicken on the side for easy sharing.

Presentation Ideas for Black Pepper Chicken

For a beautiful presentation, plate the black pepper chicken on a large serving dish, then garnish it with freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. You can also serve it on top of a bed of rice for a more visually appealing meal. To add a pop of color, consider adding some sliced red bell peppers or even some thinly sliced chili peppers for extra heat.

Black Pepper Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. Pre-ground pepper can lose its potency over time.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the chicken—keeping it juicy is key to a great texture.
• Add vegetables last to maintain their crispness and vibrant color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. However, chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay juicier during cooking. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it as it can dry out more easily.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make black pepper chicken ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pan on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

3. Is black pepper chicken spicy? While black pepper adds a kick of heat, it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your taste. If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers.

4. Can I freeze black pepper chicken? Yes, you can freeze black pepper chicken. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Black pepper chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something savory and satisfying. With the bold flavor of black pepper paired with tender chicken and crunchy vegetables, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple to make, adaptable to various preferences, and delivers a deliciously spicy and aromatic meal every time. Give this black pepper chicken recipe a try, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

Print