Black Pepper Chicken
Black Pepper Chicken is one of those delightful dishes I can’t resist whipping up during busy weeknights. The tantalizing aroma of stir-fried chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory, spicy sauce fills the kitchen, drawing everyone to the table. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor – a perfect recipe that truly embodies the heart of home cooking. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special yet remains uncomplicated.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Black Pepper Chicken stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for those nights when time is short but you want something nourishing and delicious. The vibrant colors from the bell pepper and green onions make it visually appealing, adding to your plate’s appeal.
Moreover, it’s versatile – you can serve it over rice or noodles, making it flexible to your family’s dining preferences. And let’s not forget the delightful kick from the freshly ground black pepper that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
"Simply delicious! This Black Pepper Chicken recipe became an instant family favorite. It’s so quick to make and packed with flavor!" – Happy Cook
Preparing Black Pepper Chicken
Making Black Pepper Chicken is straightforward. It involves a simple stir-fry technique that ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy while the vegetables maintain their crunch. The process is quick – you’ll be enjoying your meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for satisfying hunger after a long day.
What You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather these ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
Tip: You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a plant-based option or use different colored bell peppers for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
Directions to Follow
- Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until they’re slightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil, followed by the sliced onions and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Incorporate the minced garlic into the pan and sauté for an additional minute until the aroma fills your kitchen.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix it in with the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, and chicken broth or water, then pour this sauce over the chicken and veggies. Stir until everything is well coated and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
- Toss in the chopped green onions and stir for another minute. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When serving Black Pepper Chicken, consider plating it over a bed of fluffy white rice or on a pile of tender egg noodles. Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. You can also serve it alongside steamed broccoli or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious meal that pleases both the eyes and palate.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store any leftovers of your delicious Black Pepper Chicken, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Remember to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For the best flavor, use freshly ground black pepper; it makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- If you like it spicier, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced chili.
- Be sure to stir-fry on high heat to seal the juices of the chicken and keep the vegetables crisp.
Creative Twists on the Classic
Feel free to customize your Black Pepper Chicken! Swap chicken for shrimp or beef and adjust the sauces for your preferred taste. Consider adding nuts like cashews or almonds for crunch, or toss in some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for Black Pepper Chicken?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking is around 15 to 20 minutes, so you can enjoy this dish in about 30 minutes total!
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, snow peas, or even broccoli would work wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep an eye on their cooking times.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat before serving.
This Black Pepper Chicken recipe is not only a culinary delight but also a practical choice for anyone looking to create a comforting dinner with minimal fuss. Enjoy the bold flavors and vibrant colors, bringing joy to your table with every bite!
Black Pepper Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until slightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil, followed by the sliced onions and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix it in with the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, and chicken broth or water, then pour over the chicken and veggies. Stir until well coated and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Toss in chopped green onions and stir for another minute. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
