Craving a dish full of flavor that’s quick to make? My Savory Black Pepper Chicken recipe is your answer! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal in no time. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the tasty details and get cooking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 500g boneless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Cooked rice for serving
When I make Black Pepper Chicken, I always keep my ingredients fresh and simple. Using boneless chicken thighs gives a juicy texture. I use two tablespoons of black pepper, which brings a nice kick. Soy sauce and oyster sauce add depth and umami.
Cornstarch is key for a crunchy coating. I heat vegetable oil to the right temperature for frying the chicken. Bell peppers and onions add color and sweetness. Garlic and ginger give a great aroma. Finally, sesame oil adds a nutty flavor.
You can serve this dish over fluffy cooked rice. It’s a quick meal that packs a flavorful punch! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
First, take 500g of boneless chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 2 tablespoons of freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well to coat each piece. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for adding flavor.
Preparing the Coating
Next, you’ll prepare the coating. Take the marinated chicken and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over it. Toss the chicken pieces until they are evenly coated. This will give your chicken a nice crunch when cooked.
Cooking the Chicken
Now, heat up 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Use medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Carefully add the coated chicken in a single layer. If your skillet is small, cook in batches. Fry for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry this mix for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp, with bright colors.
Combining and Serving
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Drizzle in a bit more black pepper and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss everything together to combine well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors blend. Finally, serve your Black Pepper Chicken over fluffy cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and extra black pepper for a tasty touch.
For the full recipe, check out the section above. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
Adjust the black pepper to suit your taste. If you love heat, add more. If you prefer mild, use less. Fresh ingredients make a big difference. They add bright flavors and enhance your dish. Always choose fresh vegetables and herbs for the best results.
Achieving the Right Texture
Cornstarch is key for a crunchy texture. It gives the chicken a nice crust. Coat each piece well, but don’t use too much. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet. This helps the chicken fry evenly and get that perfect golden color.
Presentation Tips
Garnish your dish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper. This adds color and makes it look fancy. Serve Black Pepper Chicken over fluffy rice for a complete meal. You can also add steamed broccoli or snap peas for a nice touch. These veggies not only add color but also nutrition.
Variations
Spice Level Adjustments
Do you like it hot? You can add chili flakes for extra heat. Start with a pinch and add more if you want. This can change your dish from mild to spicy in no time.
Another way to adjust spice is by using a pepper blend. Different peppers can add layers of flavor. Try a mix of black pepper, white pepper, and Sichuan pepper. This mix brings a unique twist to your Black Pepper Chicken.
Vegetable Options
Want to make your dish more colorful? You can substitute bell peppers with broccoli or snap peas. These veggies add crunch and nutrition. You’ll love the fresh taste they bring.
Mushrooms are another great option. They soak up flavors well and add a nice texture. Carrots also work well. Slice them thin for a sweet and tender bite.
Alternate Sauces
Switching up your sauce can create new flavors. Try teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist. It pairs well with the black pepper and adds depth.
You can also use hoisin sauce. This sauce adds a rich and savory flavor.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using tofu instead of chicken. Tofu absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a great choice. You can follow the same steps in the Full Recipe and enjoy a tasty meal!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your Black Pepper Chicken fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. First, let the dish cool down. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids for best results.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze Black Pepper Chicken, start with cooled leftovers. Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Label each bag with the date. For thawing, simply transfer the chicken to the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until it’s hot. Adding a splash of water can help revive the dish and keep it moist.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, enjoy your leftovers within three to four days. If frozen, Black Pepper Chicken stays good for about three months. After this time, the texture and flavor may decline. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
FAQs
What is Black Pepper Chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken is a savory dish made with chicken, black pepper, and vegetables. The flavors are bold and spicy. The chicken gets a crunchy coating from cornstarch. Fresh black pepper adds heat and depth. This dish is quick to make and very satisfying.
Can I make Black Pepper Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can make Black Pepper Chicken ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?
You can serve Black Pepper Chicken with various sides. Cooked rice is a classic choice. You can also add steamed broccoli or snap peas for color. A fresh salad pairs well too. If you like bread, try serving it with warm naan or crusty rolls.
Is Black Pepper Chicken healthy?
Black Pepper Chicken can be part of a healthy meal. Chicken is a great source of protein. You can use less oil or replace it with a healthier option. Adding more vegetables boosts the nutrition. A side of brown rice instead of white rice is another healthy swap. For a lighter version, you can try using tofu instead of chicken.
In this post, I shared a simple recipe for Black Pepper Chicken. You learned how to marinate, coat, and cook the chicken. We explored tips for flavor and texture. I also offered ideas for variations and storage.
This dish is easy and tasty, perfect for any meal. With these steps, you can make it your way. Enjoy your cooking journey and savor every bite!
