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Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken
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This Black Pepper Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken pieces in a bold and spicy black pepper sauce, enhanced with savory soy sauce, aromatic garlic and ginger, and caramelized onions and bell peppers. Quick and simple to prepare, this dish delivers a flavorful punch that’s perfect for weekday dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (breasts can be used as alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger
  • 1–2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional but recommended)

Sauce and Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (additional)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (additional)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional thickener)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure good browning.
  2. Marinate for Flavor: Combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and freshly cracked black pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the bold flavors.
  3. Sauté Onions and Peppers: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until softened and slightly caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed initially to form a golden crust, then toss and cook until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Make the Sauce: Mix chicken broth with additional soy sauce and black pepper, then pour over the chicken. If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook a few more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly.
  6. Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more black pepper or soy sauce as needed. Serve immediately while hot and fragrant.

Notes

  • Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best aroma and heat.
  • Cook chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper browning.
  • Let cooked chicken rest a few minutes to lock in juices and maximize tenderness.
  • Adjust balance of flavors with small amounts of sugar or vinegar if needed.
  • Cook on high heat to achieve a slight char and quick cooking time.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter, heart-friendly version.
  • To make it spicier, add fresh chopped chili or cayenne pepper along with the black pepper.
  • Vegetarian option: swap chicken with tofu or seitan.

Nutrition

Keywords: Black Pepper Chicken, spicy chicken recipe, quick dinner, Asian stir-fry, gluten-free chicken dish

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/black-pepper-chicken/