Black Pepper Chicken
Introduction
Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful and spicy dish that originated from Chinese cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. This recipe brings a delicious balance of heat from black pepper and savory notes from other ingredients. It is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal that will impress your guests.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken breast: 1 pound
– Black pepper: 2 teaspoons
– Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
– Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
– Oil: 3 tablespoons
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
– Bell peppers: 1 cup, sliced
– Green onions: 1/2 cup, chopped
– Sichuan peppercorns: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Prep Time
The preparation time for Black Pepper Chicken is approximately 15 minutes. This allows enough time for chopping vegetables and marinating the chicken.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this dish is about 10 minutes. In total, the recipe can be prepared and ready to serve in 25 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it a great choice for family meals or sharing with friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with soy sauce, and cornstarch. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
In another bowl, mix together soy sauce, black pepper, and chicken broth. Set aside for later use.
Stir-fry the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add oil and let it heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Add Aromatics
In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Vegetables
Add bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Finalize the Dish
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add extra black pepper or chili oil.
Notes
Chicken Selection
For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they tend to remain juicier during cooking compared to chicken breasts.
Vegetables
Feel free to use any vegetables you love or have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini are great additions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the black pepper chicken over steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Cook techniques
Dry-frying
Dry-frying involves cooking the chicken in a hot pan without any oil. This technique gives a nice sear to the chicken while keeping it tender.
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger enhances the flavor. It’s best to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for a deeper taste.
Stir-frying
Stir-frying allows for quick cooking at high temperatures, which helps to lock in the moisture of the chicken and keep it juicy. Make sure to keep stirring the ingredients to ensure even cooking.
Cooking in batches
Cooking the chicken in batches prevents overcrowding in the pan. This helps achieve a good browning effect and ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
Using a wok
A wok is ideal for stir-frying as its shape allows for high heat and rapid cooking. The sloped sides help to keep the ingredients moving for better results.
FAQ
What can I serve with black pepper chicken?
Black pepper chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables.
Can I use other proteins?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or tofu depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of black pepper or add chili flakes for extra heat.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, black pepper chicken is great for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and portion it out for the week.
Conclusion
The Black Pepper Chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of Chinese flavors, bringing together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a punch of spice. Its simplicity and rich taste make it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. By mastering this recipe, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills, while also enjoying a delicious, homemade meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Kung Pao Chicken
A spicy stir-fried dish featuring chicken, peanuts, and vegetables, packed with flavors and a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Black Pepper Tofu
A vegetarian alternative that replaces chicken with tofu, providing a similar flavor profile for those looking to enjoy a meat-free option.
Szechuan Shrimp
Elevate your dinner with shrimp sautéed in a spicy Szechuan sauce, offering a different protein while retaining the signature bold flavors.
Beef with Broccoli
A classic pairing of tender beef and broccoli in a savory black pepper sauce, bringing another option for meat lovers.
Stir-fried Vegetables
A healthy side dish that can accompany any main dish, combining bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Fried Rice
Perfect as a side or main dish, fried rice with black pepper and vegetables complements the flavors of the Black Pepper Chicken beautifully.
