Black pepper chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with the bold, spicy kick of black pepper. It’s a popular recipe in many Asian cuisines and can be made quickly with common ingredients. If you’re wondering how to make black pepper chicken that tastes just right, this article will guide you through an easy-to-follow recipe and some helpful tips to get the best results.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Black pepper chicken typically involves marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor, then cooking it with a fragrant sauce made from black pepper, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sometimes vegetables like bell peppers and onions. The key to a great black pepper chicken is balancing the heat and aroma of the black pepper with savory and slightly sweet elements.
You can use chicken thighs or breasts, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful. The dish can be served with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Black Pepper Chicken
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need for a classic black pepper chicken:
– 1 pound (about 450g) chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (optional, but adds depth)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for marinating)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable or peanut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
– 1/2 white onion, chopped
– 2 bell peppers, sliced (optional for extra crunch and color)
– 1/3 cup chicken broth
– 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons light soy sauce (for the sauce)
– 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (for color and flavor)
– Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Black Pepper Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Mix well so the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce, sugar, and coarsely ground black pepper. Make sure the sugar dissolves well. Set this sauce mixture aside.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it sear without moving for about 30 seconds to get a nice brown crust, then flip and cook the other side for another 15-20 seconds until the chicken is mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 20-30 seconds until the vegetables start to soften but still retain some crunch.
5. Finish the Dish
Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the vegetables. Stir well and cook for a minute or two until the sauce thickens slightly. Return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Cook for another minute to heat through.
6. Serve
Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Serve your black pepper chicken hot with steamed rice or naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Black Pepper Chicken
– Use freshly ground black pepper for the most vibrant flavor. Pre-ground pepper can lose its potency.
– Marinate the chicken for longer if you have time—up to an hour or more—to deepen the flavor.
– Adjust the amount of black pepper to your heat preference. If you like it spicier, add more.
– Adding vegetables like bell peppers and onions not only adds color but also texture and sweetness that balance the pepper’s heat.
– For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of garam masala or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.
– Use a non-stick skillet or wok to prevent sticking and make stir-frying easier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This black pepper chicken recipe is quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—you can adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste.
Enjoy the satisfying combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and the distinctive kick of black pepper in every bite!
Black pepper chicken is a delicious way to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Try this recipe today and discover your new favorite chicken dish.