Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dish that brings bold flavors to the table, you’ve got to try this Black Pepper Chicken. Perfect for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe combines juicy chicken with a punch of black pepper and savory spices. It’s a delightful balance of spice and taste that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It’s quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes.
- The bold black pepper adds a unique flavor kick.
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner.
- It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes until they’re tender.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Stir fry until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Mix cornstarch with chicken broth and pour over the chicken, stir well. Add the remaining black pepper, and salt to taste. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with green onions before serving. Enjoy your Black Pepper Chicken over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Learn more about enhancing spice levels here.
- Feel free to use chicken thighs for a juicier texture. More on cuts of chicken here.
Variations
- Spicy Black Pepper Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of chili paste for more heat.
- Lemon Black Pepper Chicken: Include 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
- Vegetable Black Pepper Chicken: Add broccoli or snap peas for extra greens.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Black Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Suggested Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles. For a healthy touch, serve it with steamed vegetables.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. Learn how to grind pepper here.
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Preheat the skillet to prevent sticking and achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
FAQ
- Can I use a different protein? Yes, beef or tofu would work well in this recipe.
- Is it gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- How can I reduce the sodium content? Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth.