Black Pepper Chicken

Introduction

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Prep Time

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken into approximately ¾-inch (2-cm) cubes.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced chicken with Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, salt, and cornstarch. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Allow the chicken to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine oyster sauce, soy sauce, chicken stock, sugar, and ground black pepper.
2. Whisk the ingredients together until fully combined. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Core the bell peppers and dice into ¾-inch (2-cm) pieces.
2. Peel and slice the onion into similar-sized squares as the peppers.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and allow it to heat up until shimmering.
2. Add the marinated chicken into the skillet in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the bottom side becomes golden brown.
3. Flip the chicken pieces and stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is almost fully cooked but not overdone.
4. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Add the diced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften but remain slightly crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Return the partially cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour the pre-mixed sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
3. Stir and cook everything together for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the ingredients.
4. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with an additional pinch of salt or black pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

1. Transfer the cooked black pepper chicken to a serving plate.
2. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

Tip on Chicken

– Boneless chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe as they remain tender and juicy during stir-frying. If using chicken breast, take extra care not to overcook it to prevent dryness.

Vegetables Substitution

– You can substitute the bell peppers with other vegetables such as zucchini, snap peas, or broccoli for a variation in flavor and texture.

Sauce Adjustments

– If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the ground black pepper amount or even add some crushed red pepper flakes.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

– Make this recipe gluten-free by replacing soy sauce and oyster sauce with gluten-free alternatives.

Cooking Timing

– This dish is best served immediately after cooking, as the chicken and vegetables taste freshest when hot and freshly stir-fried.
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Cook Techniques

Marinate the Chicken

Marinating the chicken with soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. It also provides a light coating that prevents the chicken from drying out during the cooking process.

Prepare the Black Pepper Sauce

The sauce combines freshly ground black pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. Adjust the black pepper level according to your spice tolerance for the best results.

Cook Over High Heat

Cooking the chicken and vegetables on high heat ensures a quick and even sear, which locks in the flavors and creates a delicious, slightly smoky taste.

Stir-Fry Vegetables Separately

Stir-frying the vegetables separately from the chicken ensures that each ingredient is cooked perfectly without overcooking. This technique keeps the vegetables crisp and vibrant.

Combine Quickly

Once everything is cooked, combine them in the same skillet, toss quickly for even seasoning, and serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs, but keep in mind that chicken thighs stay juicier during cooking. You might want to adjust the cooking time slightly as chicken breast can dry out faster.

What type of black pepper should I use?

Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. Coarsely ground black pepper will add more texture and bolder flavor compared to finely ground.

Can I substitute oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a touch of sugar for a similar flavor profile.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave before serving.

Can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of black pepper or add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just ensure they are cooked briefly to retain their crunch.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make the dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure your oyster sauce and chicken broth are gluten-free labeled.

Conclusion

The Black Pepper Chicken recipe is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that balances tender chicken pieces with a rich, umami sauce and a hint of spiciness from fresh black pepper. This dish is a fantastic option for a simple homemade weeknight dinner while still delivering restaurant-quality flavors. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

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