why make this recipe

Black Pepper Chicken is a delicious dish that features tender chicken combined with flavorful spices. It’s a popular choice for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals. Preparing this dish at home allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the level of heat to suit your taste. It’s quick to make, using everyday ingredients, and perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

how to make Black Pepper Chicken

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5-mm) thick pieces
1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons light soy sauce (or soy sauce)
2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (or soy sauce)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 white onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped (I used mixed colors)

Directions:

Combine chicken, light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch in a medium-sized bowl. Mix by hand gently until the chicken is coated. Let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients well and set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and spread it into a single layer with minimal overlap. Sear for about 1 minute until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring occasionally until both sides are browned but still a bit pink inside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Stir in the ginger and garlic until fragrant. Add the chopped onion and peppers, and stir for 20 seconds.
Stir the sauce mixture until the cornstarch is completely dissolved, then pour it into the skillet. Stir quickly with a spatula and cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which should only take a few seconds.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir quickly to coat with the sauce. Turn off the heat and transfer everything to a large plate immediately, so it doesn’t keep cooking in the hot skillet.
Serve hot as a main dish.

how to serve Black Pepper Chicken

The best way to enjoy Black Pepper Chicken is by serving it hot over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside stir-fried noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color. It pairs well with stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.

how to store Black Pepper Chicken

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until it’s piping hot. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to defrost it in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Black Pepper Chicken

Ensure that the chicken is cut evenly for even cooking.
Marinating the chicken helps to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your taste for more or less heat.
Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.

variation

You can customize Black Pepper Chicken by adding other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. You can also substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option, maintaining the same flavorful sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can use beef, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

2. What if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?
If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, dry sherry can be a good substitute. You can also use rice vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar as an alternative.

3. Is this dish very spicy?
The spiciness depends on the amount of black pepper you use. You can reduce it for a milder flavor, or add more if you prefer it spicy.