There’s something special about sharing a meal with your loved ones. This easy black pepper chicken recipe is perfect for bringing everyone together. It’s tender chicken coated in a delicious black pepper sauce.
This dish combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with a peppery kick. It’s a healthier, homemade version of takeout favorites like Panda Express. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it great for any night.
Table of Contents
What is Black Pepper Chicken?
Black Pepper Chicken is a favorite in Chinese-American food, loved for its savory taste. It’s often served with steamed jasmine rice. This dish is a mix of juicy chicken, crisp bell peppers, and onions, all in a peppery sauce.
Overview of the Dish
Black Pepper Chicken is quick to make, even faster than steaming rice. It uses skin-on boneless chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness. The dish features red and green bell peppers, adding color and texture.
Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes and stir-frying for 3-4 minutes makes it tender and flavorful.
The breakdown of macronutrients per serving includes:
| Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 326 |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 114mg |
| Sodium | 616mg |
Key Ingredients
The main ingredients are chicken thighs, onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Fresh black peppercorns ground at cooking time add a strong flavor. Soy sauce and oils like avocado or canola are used for their high smoke points.
Using 350 grams of chicken, 140 grams of onions, and 100 grams of bell peppers ensures a flavorful dish.
Here’s a snapshot of the nutrient essentials per serving:
| Nutrient | Content |
|---|---|
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 690 IU |
| Vitamin C | 39mg |
| Calcium | 44mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Whole garlic cloves and freshly grated ginger add to the dish’s flavor. This makes Black Pepper Chicken a delicious and aromatic meal to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This quick black pepper chicken recipe is a favorite in many kitchens. It’s full of bold flavors and easy to make. You’ll love it for a quick, satisfying meal in under 20 minutes.
Bold Flavors
The heart of this dish is its blend of spices and seasonings. It has freshly ground black pepper and Sichuan peppercorn powder for a unique taste. Coconut aminos, chicken or vegetable stock, and fruit jam add sweetness and balance.
Minced ginger and garlic add a savory aroma. This mix of flavors makes the dish bold and complex.
Quick and Simple
This recipe is easy and fast. It uses just one pan, making cleanup simple. The chicken marinates for 30 minutes and cooks in about 5 minutes.
From start to finish, it takes less than 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Calories | 321 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 17 g |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Total Fat | 17 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Trans Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 73 mg |
| Sodium | 621 mg |
| Potassium | 654 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Vitamin A | 1161 IU |
| Vitamin C | 43 mg |
| Calcium | 35 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
This easy black pepper chicken is a nutritious and delicious meal. It’s simple, flavorful, and quick. It’s the perfect recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making a tasty homemade black pepper chicken starts with picking the right ingredients. Whether you’re using a recipe or making it up, the ingredients matter a lot. For a healthy and tasty black pepper chicken, here’s what you need:
Chicken Options
Choosing the right chicken is key. Use 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into small pieces. Thighs are juicy and flavorful, while breasts are leaner and have less fat.
Spices and Seasonings
The heart of homemade black pepper chicken is its bold spices and seasonings. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Sichuan peppercorn, freshly ground for marinade, plus 1/2 tsp for sauce
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
- 2 tsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce for the marinade
- 3 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 2 tsp honey
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 1 tsp freshly minced ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/3 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 2 tsp sesame oil
Vegetables and Add-Ins
Fresh vegetables add color and make the dish healthier. Use:
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 ribs of celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
These veggies add sweetness and crunch, balancing the chicken’s spicy and savory flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making easy black pepper chicken at home is simple. Just follow these steps. You’ll get juicy chicken and crisp veggies. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a full meal.
Marinating the Chicken
Begin by cutting 1.5 lbs (680 g) of chicken breast into small pieces. Mix it with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, and 4 tablespoons cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 20 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy while cooking.
Stir-Frying Techniques
Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until it’s almost done. Then, remove the chicken from the pan.
Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger to the pan. Sauté for about a minute. Next, add 5.07 oz (144 g) of sliced red bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes. Return the chicken to the pan, add 1 cup (4.5 oz | 128 g) of cashew nuts, and stir-fry for another minute.
To make the sauce for this Asian black pepper chicken recipe, mix 1.5 tablespoons of freshly cracked black pepper and 1 tablespoon of honey. Add ½ cup (4.22 fl oz | 125 ml) of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil and let it thicken for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade black pepper chicken hot, with extra black pepper on top. It’s great with steamed rice or noodles. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or parties. It serves 4, with each serving having about 250 kcal, 20 g of protein, 15 g of fat, and 9 g of carbs.
Tips for Perfecting Black Pepper Chicken
To make a truly spicy chicken dish that stands out, there are several tips to keep in mind. These recommendations will help you create a flavorful chicken with black pepper that’s irresistible. Let’s explore the key aspects of choosing the right pepper and ensuring the cooking time and temperature are spot-on.
Choosing the Right Pepper
Using freshly ground black pepper is key for a great flavor. For a quick black pepper chicken recipe, grind the pepper just before adding it. This ensures the best flavor. Avoid pre-ground pepper as it loses flavor over time.
Mixing black and Szechuan pepper can add a unique depth to your spicy chicken dish.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh cracked black pepper in marinade | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Fresh cracked black pepper in sauce | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Ground Szechuan peppercorn (optional) | 2 teaspoons |
Cooking Time and Temperature
Cooking the chicken correctly is essential to avoid dryness. Use high heat for a short time. Cook the chicken for about 4-6 minutes until it’s golden and cooked through. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Stir-fry the vegetables for no more than 3 minutes. This keeps them crisp-tender, adding a delightful texture to the flavorful chicken with black pepper.
| Step | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking chicken | 4-6 minutes | High heat |
| Cooking vegetables | 3 minutes | High heat |
| Air frying (optional) | 12 minutes | 200C/400F |
Creative Variations to Try
Looking to spice up your homemade black pepper chicken? There are many creative ways to do it. You can add more veggies or swap out the protein for a healthier twist. Let’s explore some unique ideas to make this chicken recipe your own.
Adding Vegetables
Adding veggies can take your black pepper chicken to the next level. Try using mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli. These not only add flavor but also make your dish healthier. Just remember, cooking times might change, but it’s worth it for the taste.
Substituting Proteins
Want to mix things up with your protein? Consider using tofu, shrimp, or beef instead of chicken. Each option brings a different taste and texture. It’s a great way to keep your meals interesting and cater to different diets.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mushrooms | 1 cup, sliced |
| Snap Peas | 1 cup |
| Broccoli | 1 cup, florets |
| Protein Substitutes | Quantity |
| Tofu | 1 pound, cubed |
| Shrimp | 1 pound, peeled and deveined |
| Beef | 1 pound, sliced |
Pairing Suggestions
To make your Asian black pepper chicken better, try pairing it with sides and drinks. The spicy chicken dish is best when balanced. Here are some great pairing ideas to make your meal better.
Best Side Dishes
Side dishes are key to balancing the bold flavors of your chicken. Here are some top picks:
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Jasmine rice’s delicate aroma and sticky texture go well with the chicken’s savory and spicy flavors. It also helps cool down the heat, making the meal balanced.
Stir-Fried Noodles: A simple noodle dish with light soy sauce and veggies complements the chicken without overpowering it. The noodles add texture and flavor.
Light Vegetable Salad: A salad with crunchy veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers offers a cool contrast to the spicy chicken. A tangy vinaigrette adds a zesty touch.
Recommended Beverages
Choosing the right drink can enhance your meal and balance the spiciness of the chicken.
Green Tea: Its earthy taste and slight bitterness refresh you from the chicken’s spiciness. Green tea also adds health benefits.
Light Beer: A crisp, light beer complements the chicken’s flavors without overpowering them. Try a Japanese lager for a unique touch.
Fruit-Infused Water: For a non-alcoholic choice, fruit-infused water is great. Lemon, lime, or cucumber slices add a refreshing and hydrating element.
For more specific and varied suggestions, check out this table. It helps you pick the best sides and drinks for your meal:
| Side Dish | Complementary Aspect | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | Balances Spiciness | 18-20 minutes |
| Stir-Fried Noodles | Enhances Texture | 15 minutes |
| Light Vegetable Salad | Adds Freshness | 10 minutes |
| Beverage | Complementary Aspect | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Green Tea | Refreshes Palate | 3-5 minutes |
| Light Beer | Balances Bold Flavors | Instant |
| Fruit-Infused Water | Hydrates | 5 minutes |
Tips for Leftovers
Leftover black pepper chicken is a great bonus. It offers quick and tasty meal options for a few days. Here’s how to keep your leftover chicken fresh and delicious.
Storing Black Pepper Chicken
For storing leftover easy black pepper chicken, use an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. This way, your chicken stays fresh for up to 3 days. It also prevents it from getting dry or smelling like other foods in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your homemade black pepper chicken, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of water to keep the sauce moist. This ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Make sure it’s hot before you serve it.
| Dish | Ingredients | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Wraps | Chicken, Tortillas, Lettuce, Tomato, Cheese, Dressing | Under 30 minutes |
| Chicken & Mushroom Risotto | Chicken, Mushrooms, Arborio Rice, Chicken Stock, Parmesan | Step-by-Step |
| Chicken Salads | Chicken, Lettuce, Vegetables, Dressing | 20 minutes |
| Chicken & Bean Enchiladas | Chicken, Kidney Beans, Sweetcorn, Tortillas, Cheese | Varies |
Health Benefits of Black Pepper
Black pepper is a spice found in homes worldwide. It’s not just for flavor; it’s also good for you. Adding black pepper to chicken recipes boosts taste and health benefits. It has piperine, a strong antioxidant.
Nutritional Profile
A teaspoon of black pepper powder has:
- Calories: 6
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
Black pepper is great for healthy black pepper chicken. It’s low in calories and helps with weight and digestion.
How It Boosts Flavor
Piperine in black pepper makes food taste better. It also helps your body use nutrients better. For example, it can make turmeric’s curcumin 2,000 times more effective.
Piperine also fights off free radicals and inflammation. Research shows it can improve memory and reduce joint pain in animals. Healthy black pepper chicken is tasty and good for you, making it a great meal choice.
| Health Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Antioxidant Properties | Contains piperine which helps reduce free radical damage. |
| Improves Digestion | Increases the availability of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, aiding digestion. |
| Weight Management | Can aid in weight loss and improve insulin sensitivity. |
| Anti-inflammatory | Helps reduce joint swelling and blood markers of inflammation. |
| Enhanced Nutrient Absorption | Boosts the absorption of essential nutrients like selenium and calcium. |
Adding black pepper to your flavorful chicken with black pepper recipe is good for taste and health.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Getting your homemade black pepper chicken just right is more than just following a recipe. It’s important to steer clear of common errors to ensure your dish is both flavorful and moist. We’ll look at two big mistakes: overcooking the chicken and skipping the marination step.
Overcooking the Chicken
One big mistake in making easy black pepper chicken is overcooking it. Chicken breasts, which are usually 12 ounces to 3/4 of a pound, can be tricky to cook evenly. The ideal internal cooking temperature is 165°F, but it can rise to 170°F due to carryover cooking.
To avoid overcooking, let chicken breasts sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This can cut down cooking time and help cook it evenly. Also, make sure your pan is hot before cooking. This prevents steaming and helps the chicken brown better.
Letting the chicken rest for five minutes after cooking helps keep it juicy. Also, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before cooking. This helps it brown better and reduces oil splatter.
Skipping the Marination
Don’t skip the marination step when making your quick black pepper chicken recipe. Marinades add flavor and keep the meat tender. For chicken thighs, marinate overnight for non-acidic marinades. Acidic marinades should not be left on for more than four hours to avoid mushiness.
When using sugar-based marinades, watch out for charring as sugar burns at 350°F. Cook chicken thighs at the right temperature for your method, like 325°F for frying or 400°F for roasting. Always let the chicken rest for about five minutes after cooking to keep it moist and improve texture.
| Chicken Part | Recommended Cooking Temp | Internal Temp | Resting Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breast | 165°F | 170°F | 5 minutes |
| Thigh (Fried) | 325°F | 175°F | 5 minutes |
| Thigh (Roasted) | 400°F | 175°F | 5 minutes |
Avoiding these common mistakes will make your homemade black pepper chicken not only easy but also deliciously flavorful.
Final Thoughts and Serving Ideas
This chicken with black pepper is a hit in Asian cuisine. It combines the zesty heat of fresh pepper with the savory soy and oyster sauce. It’s a spicy dish that’s easy to make but packed with flavor. It cooks in just 10 minutes and takes 15 minutes to prepare, making it great for busy nights.
Presentation Tips
To make your Asian black pepper chicken look great, garnish it with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve it in a warm dish to keep it hot longer. Pairing the chicken with rice adds to the flavor and makes the meal complete.
For a final touch, add some fresh cilantro on top. It adds color and a refreshing taste.
Meal Prep Ideas
This spicy chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it in bulk and portion it out with rice and veggies. Store these in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days.
This way, you can have a quick, healthy meal any time. You can also change up the sides with quinoa or broccoli. The chicken stays flavorful, making meal prep easy and tasty.
FAQ
What is Black Pepper Chicken?
What are the key ingredients in Black Pepper Chicken?
Why will I love this recipe?
What options do I have for the chicken?
What spices and seasonings are essential?
Which vegetables and add-ins can be included?
How do I marinate the chicken?
What are some effective stir-frying techniques?
How can I serve Black Pepper Chicken?
How do I choose the right type of pepper?
What is the optimal cooking time and temperature?
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
What side dishes go well with Black Pepper Chicken?
What beverages pair well with Black Pepper Chicken?
How should I store leftover Black Pepper Chicken?
What is the best way to reheat Black Pepper Chicken?
Are there any health benefits of using black pepper in this dish?
What is the nutritional profile of Black Pepper Chicken?
What are common mistakes to avoid when making Black Pepper Chicken?
Why shouldn’t I skip the marination step?
How can I make the dish look visually appealing when serving?
Are there any meal prep ideas for Black Pepper Chicken?
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