Introduction to Black Pepper Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken is a flavorful dish that perfectly balances savory and spicy notes. This stir-fry is a staple in various Asian cuisines, renowned for its robust taste and quick preparation time. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal at home, this recipe is your go-to.
Why Homemade Black Pepper Chicken?
Choosing to make your own black pepper chicken at home has several appealing benefits. First and foremost, you control the quality of ingredients. By using fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken, you’re ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor. Additionally, homemade meals allow you to adjust seasoning to your liking, offering a personalized touch that restaurant meals may lack.
Making it from scratch also saves money! Take advantage of pantry staples like garlic, soy sauce, and cornstarch, which can be used in multiple dishes. If you’re pressed for time, don’t worry—this recipe can be whipped up in about 30 minutes.
Not to mention, the satisfaction of cooking a meal that not only tastes great but also smells incredible as it sizzles away in your kitchen is unmatched. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade black pepper chicken!
Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken
Creating a delicious black pepper chicken dish starts with gathering some essential items. Let’s take a closer look!
Essential Ingredients for the Chicken
For the chicken, you will need the following:
- 12 ounces of boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
- 3 tablespoons of water
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch – this helps tenderize the chicken
- 1 teaspoon of neutral oil (like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)
- 2 teaspoons of oyster sauce – it adds a rich, savory flavor
- ½ teaspoon of coarsely ground black pepper – for that signature kick!
These ingredients create a flavorful foundation for your black pepper chicken that will make your taste buds dance!
Ingredients for the Sauce and Vegetables
To complete your dish, you'll need a mix of sauce ingredients and fresh vegetables. Here’s what to gather:
- ½ cup of low sodium chicken stock – a healthier choice for less sodium
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sugar – to balance the flavors
- 2 teaspoons of dark soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon of sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons of neutral oil (divided for cooking)
- 2 cloves of garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 medium onion (cut into wedges)
- ½ bell pepper (any color, in 1-inch pieces)
- 1 stalk of celery (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon of coarsely ground black pepper (for that final touch)
- 1 ½ teaspoons of cornstarch (mixed with water for thickening)
These ingredients combine to create a savory, peppery sauce that elevates your dish. Ready to cook? Let's dive into the recipe!
Preparing Black Pepper Chicken
Cooking is all about bringing flavors together, and Black Pepper Chicken is a perfect dish to showcase that. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe step by step!
Marinating the Chicken
The first step in making a delicious Black Pepper Chicken is to marinate the chicken. This crucial step infuses the meat with flavor and helps keep it tender. In a mixing bowl, add your sliced 12 ounces of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, along with 3 tablespoons of water, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of neutral oil, 2 teaspoons of oyster sauce, and ½ teaspoon of coarsely ground black pepper.
Now, using your hands, rub the marinade into the chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes. This short wait time is essential, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Preparing the Sauce Mixture
While the chicken marinates, let’s whip up the sauce. In a small bowl or a measuring cup, combine ½ cup of low sodium chicken stock, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 2 teaspoons of dark soy sauce, and ½ teaspoon of sesame oil. Stir everything until well incorporated, and set it aside. This sauce will be the heart of your Black Pepper Chicken, providing all the savory goodness you crave.
Cooking the Chicken
Now, it’s time to cook the chicken. Heat your wok over high heat until it starts to smoke. Add 2 tablespoons of oil, and then carefully lay the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear the chicken until it’s opaque on all sides—this should only take a couple of minutes. Once it’s done, turn off the heat, remove the chicken, and set it aside. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked; it will finish cooking later!
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Without washing your wok (we love those residual flavors), turn the heat to medium. Add the last tablespoon of oil, followed by 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic and 1 medium onion cut into wedges. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds, and then drizzle 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine around the wok’s edges. Next, toss in ½ bell pepper (any color, cut into 1-inch pieces) and 1 stalk of celery (thinly sliced), along with 1 teaspoon of coarsely ground black pepper. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds, allowing those vibrant veggies to soften just a bit.
Bringing It All Together
Now for the best part—combining everything! Pourin the prepared sauce mixture and let it simmer briefly. Give your cornstarch and water slurry (made with 1 ½ teaspoons of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) a quick stir, then drizzle it into the sauce while stirring. This will help thicken it to that perfect gravy-like consistency. Toss the chicken back in, letting it soak up all those rich flavors and heat through.
Give it a taste and adjust if needed—add more dark soy for color or a bit more chicken stock if it’s too thick. Serve your finished Black Pepper Chicken hot with steamed rice, and enjoy the flavorful explosion in every bite!
Variations on Black Pepper Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken with Different Vegetables
One of the best things about black pepper chicken is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with a variety of vegetables to suit your taste or what’s in your fridge! You might try adding snap peas, broccoli, or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious twist. The crunch of fresh asparagus or bok choy can also elevate the dish. Simply toss them in during your stir-fry for a few extra minutes until they're tender yet crisp.
Spicy Black Pepper Chicken Option
Do you crave a little heat? For a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes during the cooking process. This easy adjustment transforms your standard black pepper chicken into a fiery feast that will awaken your taste buds. Pair it with steamed rice or a cool cucumber salad to balance the flavors. Happy cooking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Black Pepper Chicken
Cooking black pepper chicken can be a delightful experience if you keep a few tips in mind.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes. This enhances the flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
- Heat Control: Make sure your wok is hot before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear, locking in moisture while creating a delicious crust.
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more black pepper or heat in the form of chili flakes.
- Serve Smart: Pair with steamed rice or a fresh salad for balance.
For more detailed guidance, check out this article about marinating techniques. Enjoy your cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Black Pepper Chicken
Best sides to pair with Black Pepper Chicken
To make your black pepper chicken meal truly memorable, consider serving it with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant grains complement the savory sauce perfectly.
- Stir-fried Vegetables: A mix of broccoli, carrots, and snap peas adds color and crunch.
- Garlic Noodles: Their rich flavor offsets the peppery punch of the chicken.
- Egg Fried Rice: A comforting classic that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
For a refreshing touch, you can also serve a side of Asian cucumber salad dressed with sesame oil.
Ideal serving temperature
The best way to enjoy your black pepper chicken is hot, right off the stove. Aim for a serving temperature of around 160°F (70°C) for maximum flavor. If you need to store leftovers, let them cool before placing them in the fridge, where they’ll keep for about three days. When reheating, ensure it’s heated thoroughly to regain that delicious warmth!
Pair your chicken with a glass of cool iced tea or lemon water for a delightful dining experience.
Time Breakdown for Black Pepper Chicken
Preparation time
Get started with a quick prep time of just 10 minutes. This includes slicing the chicken and marinating it to bring out those fantastic flavors!
Cooking time
Once you're prepped, cooking this delicious black pepper chicken takes about 15 minutes. You'll be stir-frying and mixing until everything is perfectly combined.
Total time
In total, you're looking at just 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner! Enjoy your homemade masterpiece alongside some fluffy rice for the complete experience. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Black Pepper Chicken
Calories
A serving of this delicious black pepper chicken contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying yet lighter option for dinner.
Protein
Packed with 20 grams of protein, this dish is an excellent source of lean protein, ideal for maintaining muscle and keeping you feeling full longer.
Sodium
While it does have around 742 mg of sodium, you can easily reduce this by using low-sodium options, ensuring it fits into a balanced diet.
FAQs about Black Pepper Chicken
Can I use other meats for Black Pepper Chicken?
Absolutely! While the traditional Black Pepper Chicken features chicken, you can easily switch things up. Feel free to use beef, turkey, or even shrimp. Just adjust your cooking times accordingly, as different proteins have varying cooking needs. For example, shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it!
How do I make the dish less spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you have a couple of options. First, simply reduce the amount of coarsely ground black pepper used in the recipe. You could also substitute the black pepper with a pinch of milder spices like cumin or paprika for a different flavor profile without the heat. Lastly, adding a touch of sugar or honey can help balance out any spice intensity.
Can I prepare Black Pepper Chicken ahead of time?
Certainly! Prepping your Black Pepper Chicken in advance is a great way to save time. You can marinate the chicken up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the recipe from there! If you plan to freeze it, consider cooking it first; cooked dishes usually maintain better quality after thawing than raw ones.
Conclusion on Black Pepper Chicken
In conclusion, black pepper chicken is a delightful dish that brings a savory punch to your dinner table. Its simpler preparation and bold flavors make it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. Whether served over steamed rice or utilized as a protein in a salad, this dish is sure to please everyone. Embrace the joy of cooking with this recipe!
Black Pepper Chicken
Equipment
- Wok
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 12 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon neutral oil (such as vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)
- 2 teaspoons oyster sauce
- ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
For the rest of the dish
- ½ cup low sodium chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons neutral oil (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 medium onion (cut into wedges)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
- 1 stalk celery (thinly sliced on an angle)
- 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water to form a cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Start by marinating your chicken. In a bowl, add the sliced chicken, water, cornstarch, oil, oyster sauce, and black pepper. Rub the marinade ingredients into the chicken with your hands until the chicken has absorbed all the liquid. Set aside for 10 minutes.
- Next, prepare the sauce mixture. In a small bowl or measuring cup, add the chicken stock, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, sugar, dark soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together until well-combined, and set aside.
- Place your wok over high heat until smoking. Add 2 tablespoons of oil, and then add the chicken all in a single layer. Sear the chicken until opaque on all sides (this should only take a couple minutes). Turn off the heat, remove the chicken from the wok, and set aside. The chicken will be 80-90% done, but you’ll cook it again at the end.
- Without washing the wok, turn on the heat to medium. Add another tablespoon of oil, along with the garlic and onion. Stir-fry for 20 seconds, then add the Shaoxing wine around the perimeter of the wok.
- Add the peppers and celery, along with the 1 teaspoon black pepper. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in the sauce mixture. Use your wok spatula to stir the sauce around the sides of the wok to deglaze, and let it come to a simmer.
- Stir up the cornstarch and water slurry, and drizzle the mixture into sauce while stirring constantly. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10 to 15 seconds until thick and gravy-like. Toss in the chicken and its juices. Stir-fry until the chicken is coated in the sauce and the sauce is thickened to your liking.
- At this point, you can make adjustments. If you like your brown sauce darker, add a dash more of dark soy sauce. Add more cornstarch slurry if your sauce is too thin, or more chicken stock or water if the sauce is too thick. Serve with steamed rice.
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