Make Tasty Black Pepper Chicken in Just 30 Minutes!

Craving a flavor-packed, easy-to-prepare dish that will delight your taste buds? Look no further than Black Pepper Chicken. This vibrant stir-fry is a staple in Asian cuisine, delivering a satisfying punch of spice and an irresistible savory-sweet balance. With its quick cooking time and simple ingredients, Black Pepper Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want to impress your family with a homemade meal.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

The key to Black Pepper Chicken‘s bold taste lies in its carefully curated ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 500 g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Green onions for garnish, chopped

The boneless chicken thighs provide juicy, tender meat that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors. The generous amount of freshly ground black pepper is the star of the show, delivering a spicy kick that will delight your taste buds. The onion, bell pepper, and garlic add depth and balance to the dish, while the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar create a delectable sauce that coats the chicken.

Mastering the Art of Black Pepper Chicken

Preparing Black Pepper Chicken is a straightforward process that comes together quickly. Follow these steps for a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen:

1. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add onion and green bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add garlic and black pepper, stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Return chicken to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and salt to taste. Stir well.
7. Pour in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
8. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

The key to perfecting Black Pepper Chicken is to cook the chicken until it’s just lightly browned, then add the vegetables and seasonings. This ensures the chicken remains tender and the vegetables retain a delightful crunch. The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce, creating a glossy, cling-to-the-chicken texture that’s simply irresistible.

Tips for Elevating Your Black Pepper Chicken

To take your Black Pepper Chicken to the next level, consider these helpful tips:

• Chicken Selection: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the most tender and flavorful results. Breast meat can also be used, but thighs tend to have a richer flavor and stay juicier.
• Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your spice preference. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you want an extra kick.
• Vegetable Texture: Cook the onions and bell peppers until they’re just slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes. This preserves their crisp texture and prevents them from becoming too soft.

As for serving suggestions, Black Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. Garnish the dish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Black Pepper Chicken (about 1 cup) contains approximately 300 calories, 25g of protein, 13g of fat, and 12g of carbohydrates. The dish is a great source of lean protein from the chicken, as well as essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The soy sauce and oyster sauce provide umami flavors, while the black pepper adds an anti-inflammatory boost.

Exploring Black Pepper Chicken Variations

While the classic Black Pepper Chicken is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish:

• Vegetable-Packed Version: Add broccoli, snap peas, or any other crunchy vegetables to the stir-fry for extra nutrition and texture.
• Spicy Black Pepper Chicken: Increase the black pepper or add sliced chili peppers for a fiery kick.
• Vegetarian Black Pepper Chicken: Substitute the chicken with extra-firm tofu or seitan for a meat-free option.

No matter which variation you choose, Black Pepper Chicken is sure to become a new family favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of chicken works best for black pepper chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the ideal cut for Black Pepper Chicken. Thigh meat is more flavorful and tender compared to chicken breasts, which can sometimes become dry when stir-fried.

How spicy is black pepper chicken compared to other stir-fry dishes?

Black Pepper Chicken has a moderate level of spiciness, thanks to the generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. While it packs a peppery punch, it’s not as intensely spicy as some stir-fry dishes that use chili peppers or sauces like Szechuan or Thai chili.

Can black pepper chicken be made ahead of time?

Yes, Black Pepper Chicken can be prepared in advance. Cook the dish according to the instructions, then let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a pan or the microwave until hot.

What side dishes pair well with black pepper chicken?

Black Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed white or brown rice, as the flavorful sauce complements the simplicity of the rice. You can also serve it with stir-fried noodles, such as lo mein or pad Thai, for a heartier meal.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Honey Garlic Chicken: Another quick and easy stir-fry option with a sweet and savory flavor profile.
• Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: Using similar cooking techniques to Black Pepper Chicken.
• Sweet and Sour Chicken: Explore a contrasting flavor profile to the spicy-savory Black Pepper Chicken.

Elevate Your Weeknights with Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken is a true weeknight hero, delivering bold flavors and satisfying textures in a flash. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. So, grab your wok or skillet and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the peppery punch of Black Pepper Chicken.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

Print