Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Table of Contents
Ah, the joys of a bustling kitchen filled with the aroma of sizzling spices and the comfort of familiar flavors. Today, let’s gather around for a delightful culinary adventure that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day—my Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe. This dish is akin to the comforting embrace of a favorite childhood blanket, bringing together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Imagine the satisfying crackle of black pepper, the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables, and the tender, juicy bites of chicken, all mingling together in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family dinners, where laughter was the main course and love was the secret ingredient. Each time I make this dish, I’m reminded of the kitchen magic my grandma used to weave, turning ordinary days into extraordinary memories with just a few simple, yet powerful ingredients.
As we prepare this recipe together, you’ll find that it’s not just about the taste, but the experience of creating something with your own hands. The black pepper chicken is more than a meal; it’s an invitation to pause and savor the little moments, to gather loved ones around the table, and to share stories and smiles over a delicious plate of homemade goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to be as approachable as a chat with an old friend, guiding you through every step with warmth and encouragement. Let’s dive in and discover why this Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe deserves a cherished spot in your heart and on your table.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
This Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe brings a delightful mixture of flavors and an easy cooking experience to your kitchen. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:
Quick and Simple: With a preparation time that respects your busy schedule, this recipe ensures you enjoy a home-cooked meal without the fuss. You can easily have dinner ready in under 30 minutes, which is perfect for hectic weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful Delight: The combination of freshly ground black pepper and soy sauce creates a robust, savory profile that excites the palate. The black pepper adds a bold heat, while the soy sauce lends a umami depth that makes every bite irresistible.
Family Favorite: Perfect for family dinners, this dish brings everyone together with its comforting and familiar taste. It’s a recipe that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a reliable choice for any family meal.
Versatile Pairing: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish complements various side dishes, enhancing any meal beautifully. Its adaptability means you can pair it with anything from simple steamed rice to elaborate vegetable dishes.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up this delightful dish, you won’t need much—just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade meals:
Large Frying Pan: Essential for browning the chicken and stir-frying the vegetables to perfection. A non-stick pan is preferable as it requires less oil and ensures the chicken doesn’t stick.
Mixing Bowl: For whisking the black pepper sauce until it’s smooth and lump-free. A medium-sized bowl is perfect for combining all the sauce ingredients efficiently.
Whisk: Useful for combining sauce ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the cornstarch is fully dissolved to create a smooth sauce with no clumps.
Knife and Cutting Board: To chop the chicken, onions, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. A sharp knife is crucial for clean cuts, making the preparation process quicker and easier.
Measuring Spoons: To ensure precise measurements of ingredients, particularly the spices and sauces. Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 500 grams or 1.1 lbs skinless chicken breast cut into bite-size cubes
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil Salt as required
- 2 medium-sized onions cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large-sized green bell pepper cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 fresh red/green chili chopped
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
For the sauce:
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water/chicken broth
Instructions
Make the Sauce: Begin by preparing the black pepper sauce. Whisk together the crushed black pepper, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, cornstarch, and water in a bowl until there are no lumps. This ensures that the flavors meld perfectly and the sauce thickens evenly when cooked.
Prepare the Chicken: Coat the chicken with 1 tablespoon of the sauce, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and salt. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavors. Rest it aside while you prepare the onion, ginger, garlic, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large frying pan until it’s hot. Add one tablespoon of oil and tilt the pan to spread the oil all over. Add chicken in a single layer and cook over a medium flame until golden from the bottom. Then flip the chicken cubes over and cook until the chicken begins to brown and is almost cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in the same pan. Add ginger, garlic, and chopped chilies; sauté for 30 seconds, letting the aromas release. Immediately add onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry over a high flame until the vegetables are crisp and tender. This step ensures the vegetables retain their vibrant color and crunch.
Combine and Serve: Reduce the flame to the lowest. Whisk the sauce to recombine and pour it into the pan. Let it simmer for 30 seconds. Add the fried chicken and toss well until warmed through. Switch off the flame and add freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine and serve hot.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: Asian • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 15 minutes • Total Time: 25 minutes • Calories: 220 • Servings: 4
Note: Adjust the level of black pepper to suit your taste preference for a milder or spicier dish.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
This Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe not only promises delightful flavors but also comes with some surprising benefits:
Black Pepper: Known for its antioxidant properties, black pepper adds a spicy kick while supporting digestion. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory and can enhance the absorption of essential nutrients.
Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken helps build and repair body tissues, making this dish both delicious and nutritious. It’s also a great source of B vitamins and minerals like selenium and phosphorus.
Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamins A and C, bell peppers add a sweet crunch and a boost to your immune system. Their bright color signifies a high level of antioxidants, which are essential for combating free radicals.
Ginger and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients are celebrated for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Ginger can help with digestion and nausea, while garlic is known for its heart health benefits.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
This Easy Black Pepper Chicken is a versatile companion to various beverages and dishes, making it perfect for any occasion:
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant rice balances the spicy and savory notes of the chicken dish. Its subtle aroma complements the bold flavors of the dish without overpowering them.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables complements the flavors and adds nutritional value. Choose vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas for added color and texture.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, refreshing glass of white wine enhances the flavors and elevates the dining experience. Opt for a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for their light, fruity profiles.
Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing salad provides a cool contrast to the warm, peppery chicken. Add a splash of lemon juice and olive oil for a zesty dressing.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
To keep your Easy Black Pepper Chicken fresh and flavorful, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is a breeze—simply warm the chicken in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. This dish is just as delightful the next day, and you can even transform it into a new meal. Try serving it over a bed of fresh greens for a hearty salad or stuffing it into a wrap for an easy, on-the-go lunch.
In the end, it’s not just about the recipe but the joy of creating something from scratch that brings warmth to your home. This Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, homemade cooking that connects us to our roots and each other. So gather your loved ones, create new memories, and savor every bite of this delightful dish that truly embodies the heart and soul of Easy Peasy Recipes.
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Easy Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the black pepper sauce by whisking together the crushed black pepper, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, cornstarch, and water in a bowl until there are no lumps.
- Coat chicken with 1 tablespoon of the sauce, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and salt. Rest it aside while you prepare the onion, ginger, garlic, and pepper.
- Heat a large frying pan until it’s hot. Add one tablespoon of oil and tilt the pan to spread oil all over. Add chicken in a single layer and cook over medium flame until golden from the bottom. Then flip the chicken cubes over and cook until the chicken begins to brown and is almost cooked through. Then transfer the chicken to a plate. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if needed.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in the same pan. Add ginger, garlic, and chopped chilies; Saute for 30 seconds. Immediately add onion and bell peppers. Stir fry over a high flame until the vegetables are crisp and tender.
- Reduce the flame to the lowest. Whisk the sauce to recombine and pour the sauce. Let it simmer for 30 seconds. Add the fried chicken and toss well until warmed through.
- Switch off the flame and add freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine and serve hot.
