Introduction
Black Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken with the heat of freshly ground black pepper. This recipe is quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful addition to any dinner gathering. Served over steamed rice or noodles, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something savory and aromatic.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp dark soy sauce
1 tsp cornstarch
1 medium onion, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1-2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp sesame oil
Salt to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Directions
1. Marinate chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch for 15 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add chicken and cook until no longer pink.
4. Stir in onions and bell peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender yet crisp.
5. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper and pour in chicken broth. Stir well.
6. Drizzle sesame oil for flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine the boneless, skinless chicken pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch in a mixing bowl. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding other ingredients.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the hot oil and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Incorporate the sliced onion and green bell pepper into the pan. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet retain some crispness.
Step 6: Season the Dish
Sprinkle 1 to 2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 7: Drizzle with Sesame Oil
Finish the dish by drizzling 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the stir-fry. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the Black Pepper Chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
Ingredient Options
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with breasts based on preference, or adjust the vegetables to include favorites like broccoli or carrots.
Adjusting Spice Level
Modify the amount of freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor.
Cooking Equipment
Using a wok can enhance the cooking experience, but a regular frying pan will work as well.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Sautéing
Heat vegetable oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat. This technique ensures a good sear on the chicken and helps lock in moisture.
Stir-frying
Add the minced garlic first, allowing it to become fragrant before adding the marinated chicken. Once cooked through, quickly stir in the vegetables to retain their crispness.
Seasoning
Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper during the cooking process to maximize its flavor. Adjust the seasoning at the end with salt to taste.
Finishing
Drizzle sesame oil over the dish just before serving to add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used in place of thighs if you prefer a leaner cut. Just be mindful not to overcook it, as it can dry out.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of freshly ground black pepper added to the dish.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to modify the vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability; carrots, broccoli, or snap peas could work well.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken marinade and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save on preparation.
What can I serve with Black Pepper Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, allowing the flavorful sauce to be absorbed.
Conclusion
The Black Pepper Chicken recipe offers a deliciously spicy and savory dish that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. With its combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a robust flavor profile enhanced by black pepper, it is a versatile meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
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